We all have our own ideas about what wealth truly means. It’s not just about the money in your bank account, but about a balanced and fulfilling life. For some, wealth means sending their kids to the best schools, while for others, it’s owning a grand home and fancy cars. But what if true wealth is about having the freedom to pursue your dreams and happiness?
This article dives into the concept of the ‘wealth cure,’ exploring how to shift your perspective on money and prioritize what truly matters. Inspired by Hill Harper’s ‘The Wealth Cure: Putting Money in Its Place,’ we’ll examine how to break free from the cycle of financial stress and create a life rich in well-being.
Get ready to discover that real wealth is not just about dollars and cents. It’s about the value of the items in your life account, including time with family, personal passions, and a sense of purpose. Let’s explore!
The $104,000 Question: Is Money the Key to Happiness?
Remember the study from 2010 that claimed $75,000 was the magic number for happiness? Well, thirteen years later, thanks to inflation, that number is closer to $104,000. The study suggested that earning below that benchmark led to unhappiness, but earning more didn’t necessarily increase happiness.
The truth is, simply earning a certain amount doesn’t guarantee fulfillment. Many people earning well above this amount still struggle with financial stress and a lack of well-being. The key lies in understanding that money is just one piece of the puzzle.
As the author shares, even with a comfortable income, unexpected expenses and life’s challenges can quickly eat away at your sense of financial security. It’s about how you manage your money and what you prioritize in your life.
The Wealth Cure: What Does It Cost to Be You?
Hill Harper asks a crucial question: ‘What does it cost to be you?’ In today’s world, money is a major stressor. We worry about it more than our relationships or health. This constant cycle of spending and debt leads to unhealthy habits and increased stress.
Harper argues that our lifestyles often cost too much. Being trapped in a job you hate, burdened by debt, can be soul-crushing. Almost a third of Americans believe they need $3 million to feel rich. But true wealth is about more than just a number in the bank.
If the cost of being you is too high – if spending has you feeling trapped – you’re not truly free. That’s where the concept of a Wealth Cure comes in. It’s about finding a way to live a fulfilling existence without being enslaved by your finances.
Your Wealth Factor List: Prioritizing What Matters
There’s more to life than money. While money can certainly improve your life, it’s not the only factor. True wealth is the value of the things you have in your ‘life account.’ It’s time to examine your life and identify what truly brings you a deep, enduring sense of well-being.
Consider creating your own Wealth Factor list. What are the things that, regardless of your income, make you genuinely happy? Here are some examples inspired by the author’s list:
- Time with family in nature
- Quality time at home without distractions
- Regular date nights with your partner
- Time with close friends
- Acts of service to love ones
- Regular acts of charity
- Prioritizing your health
Your own list will be unique to you. It’s about identifying the things that contribute to your overall well-being and making them a priority.
Money = Circulation of Energy: A New Perspective
One of the most impactful ideas from Harper’s book is the concept of money as a form of energy. This shift in perspective can bring you closer to your own Wealth Cure. You can literally use money as energy, paying for utilities and fuel.
Or, you can use it to make things happen, paying others for their labor and expertise. You can use it to have someone prepare your food or fix your car. Understanding this connection can help you become more mindful of how you spend your money.
For example, a large portion of your property taxes goes towards schools, paying for teachers and educational resources. This is an investment in your children’s future, showing how money translates into real-world energy and accomplishments.
Money represents the circulation of energy when we pay someone for a service or product. Understanding this allows you to appreciate the value of your own energy and the energy of others.
Dumbest Money of All: Avoiding Credit Card Debt
Harper argues that credit card interest payments are the ‘dumbest money of all.’ If you don’t pay off your credit card balance each month, you’re essentially throwing money away. The item you purchased can end up costing twice as much due to interest.
The average American household carries significant credit card debt. By striving to become credit debt-free, you’re giving yourself the chance to save more money for your future rather than enriching banks.
Strive to pay off your balances each month, or at least reduce them significantly. This will free up more of your energy (money) to spend on things that truly matter.
From Fear to Courage: Embracing a Shift in Perspective
Harper’s book details his changing perspective on money and life after a health crisis. He worked to overcome his fear of death and embrace a grateful and courageous attitude. You cannot control when this comes, but you can control how you accept God’s plan.
While shifting your attitude takes time and effort, reading about how the author decided to appreciate his life made me think about being more courageous. Living each day to the fullest, regardless of the circumstances, can lead to a more fulfilling life.
Find Work That Is Your Passion: Enriching Your Life
Stephen King once wrote about finding work that you are passionate about. He wrote “Writing is not about making money, getting famous, getting dates, getting laid, or making friends. In the end, it’s about enriching the lives of those who will read your work, and enriching your own life as well…When you find something at which you are talented, you do it (whatever it is) until your fingers bleed or your eyes are ready to fall out of your head.”
While financial realities may make it difficult to completely change careers, it’s essential to find happiness in your work. If you’re gainfully employed, appreciate the good aspects of your job and try to find some satisfaction in what you do.
Take control of your life’s direction and work towards achieving your Wealth Factors, particularly those within your control. Use these achievements as stepping stones to a greater sense of well-being. Do you believe you can change, or that you can’t?
I, for one, believe that I can.
Conclusion: It’s Time to Change
Discovering the ‘wealth cure’ is more than just about managing your finances. It’s about understanding your values, prioritizing your well-being, and shifting your perspective on money. It’s about recognizing that true wealth is not just about the dollars in your bank account, but the quality of your life.
Start by creating your Wealth Factor list, identifying the things that bring you joy and fulfillment. Focus on circulating your energy (money) in ways that align with your values. Avoid the ‘dumbest money’ by managing your debt responsibly.
Embrace a shift in perspective, moving away from fear and towards gratitude. Find work that is your passion, and if that’s not possible, find ways to appreciate the good aspects of your current job.
Remember, you have the power to change your life and create your own wealth cure. Start today, and embrace a more fulfilling and meaningful existence.
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