I like questions. Always have.
Growing up, I use to drive my mother crazy with my ongoing “why?” to every answer she’d give to one question after another of mine. Sometimes, she’d jokingly (I think) respond, “Okay, Rona Barrett…” – more so for Rona’s penchant for questions, not gossip. In case you didn’t know, Rona is the former TV reporter and gossip columnist.
The way I see the world, questions give birth to answers.
But I believe there are times when the question is perhaps even more important than the ultimate answer – if for no other reason than what the question prompts you to think about and explore. Especially when you’ve reached the point of exasperation.
Are You Paying Attention?
I’ve been there. I know clients of mine have, too. Maybe you’ve been there as well.
The “there” I speak of is that point where you pause and ask, rather bewilderedly, “What else can I do? I have done everything to turn this situation around and nothing is changing?”
The above questions are a sure sign that frustration has set in! They also highlight how the process of answering them likely has more value than the ultimate answer. Here’s another example:
Can Thoughts Jack Up Your Finances?
I realize I’m likely venturing into sensitive, controversial, or maybe even contradictory territory. But I raise it because I struggle with this question.
Sure it’s easy to embrace and apply the adage, “As a man thinketh,” when all is groovy and you are experiencing the financial results you want. But what about when the opposite is happening and the financial picture isn’t so rosy? When you are doing all the recommended steps, but the momentum is at a snails pace and things are getting worse rather than improving?
What. Do. You. Do.? Really. What additional responsibility or actions do you need to take?
If you’re evaluating your own situation or raise the question with another, how do you broach the question – “Can Your Thoughts Jack Up Your Finances” – and the process of answering it without also implying the sentiment of blaming the victim? Tricky, tricky, tricky!
Power to Your Mind
Yet, when you’ve “done” all you can – when you’ve reached your point of exasperation – maybe the next level of doing really is in your head with your thoughts.
By the way, this is where the woo-woo people will raise their hands in excited solidarity, and where the die-hard number crunchers will snub their noses.
But truthfully, success with money takes a combo of addressing the numbers and your mindset.
A combo approach to money is the perfect example of the dynamic relationship between “soft” and “hard” skills.
This is why I am excited about next week’s webinar featuring Mindy Crary, CFP and conscious money coach. She’s got the combo down (well, as down as any of us can; after all, we each are a work in progress).
Mindy is a regular contributor to Forbes, which is how I discovered her, and I am thrilled that she’s going to share her wisdom with you – my peeps – next Tuesday, April 2nd at 8pm.
“Can Your Thoughts Jack Up Your Finances? What do you believe? (Leave a comment to let me know.)
Honestly, I believe it’s less important if your answer is “yes” or “no” and much, much more interesting to dig behind your answer. Because here’s what I’ve discovered personally and from my work helping people sort out the emotional side of money:
The questions we raise when things are going well are rarely the same or as emotionally challenging as when things aren’t going too well.
Yes, as the title implies, next week’s webinar – “Do You Have the Mindset to Be Debt-Free?” – is geared toward helping those feeling overwhelmed by debt. But everyone can benefit from learning how to unlock their inner-financial super hero. Wouldn’t you agree? So even if debt isn’t part of your money story, you may want to join us to learn if you have thoughts that are stunting your financial growth in other areas…
p.s. don’t forget to get your spot for next week’s webinar – Do You Have the Mindset to Be Debt-Free? featuring Mindy Crary, CFP + conscious money coach
p.p.s. exciting news! I’m speaking at the Victory Over Money Drama virtual summit, along with 15 other luminaries. You’ll learn how to go from money drama to money harmony all from a faith-based perspective. Get 2 free gifts just for your interest in the summit. Find out more at http://pwc2.com/jt-vomd.
p.p.p.s. the virtual, three-month experience for couples – Master the Language of Love + Money – launches in May!!! Stay tuned for details.
