Have you ever wondered why you feel anxious checking your bank account? Or, guilty spending money on yourself? Maybe you feel like no matter how hard you try, you just can't seem to get ahead?

 

You're not alone. Most of us are walking around with old money stories that were written before we ever even began to earn money.

 

Financial confidence starts with self-awareness. That means we need to take a look at where your money beliefs came from.

 

Your money mindset was formed in childhood

As children, we absorb everything, including what is modeled for us by our caregivers. You may have heard:

• "We can't afford that"
• "Money doesn't grow on trees"
• "We don't talk about money, it's rude"
• "People with money are rude"
• "We always find a way, even when times are tough"

These phrases might seem small, but they create emotional blueprints that shape your adult money habits. Today, they may show up as:

• You hoard money and feel guilty about spending it
• You avoid financial conversations in relationships
• You undercharge for your work or resist earning more
• You're a disciplined saver, but feel constantly on-edge about your finances

These beliefs aren't bad. They are survival strategies. But, what protected you as a child, may be limiting as an adult.

 

A common story

I have worked with many individuals who find it hard to spend money on themselves, no matter the cost or occasion. They feel that they are doing something wrong. After a little exploration, it is usually discovered that they grew up in a household where money was tight and spending on anything extra was considered selfish. Once a client understands where the belief comes from, they are able to rewrite it. They learn that they can take care of their needs and still be responsible. 

 

How to identify your money beliefs

Here are some reflection prompts to journal on or talk about with a financial counselor:

• What messages did I hear about money growing up?
• How did my family talk (or not talk) about finances?
• What were "good" or "bad" money behaviors in my home? How do I see those patterns showing up in my life today?
• What beliefs do I want to keep and which do I want to change?

 

Rewriting the script

There's good news! You're not stuck with the beliefs you inherited! Awareness is the first step to rewriting your money story. You can:

• Replace scarcity thoughts with affirmations rooting in sufficiency
• Practice new habits that align with your current goals, not your childhood fears
• Work with a financial counselor to build tools and confidence

 

Ready for your money story?

If you are realizing that your money habits are tied to deeper roots, I invite you to take the next step. Schedule a consultation, today. Let's talk about how your early experiences might be influencing your financial life, today. Let's rewrite your story!