How what you THINK about MONEY impacts your LIFE

By Dr. Joanne Narae

When it comes to saving, investing, and managing money, many people assume the problem lies in not having enough income or lacking financial know-how. But the truth is, one of the biggest things holding you back might be your money mindset—the beliefs you’ve formed about money over time.

Let’s take a closer look at how your thoughts about money are shaping your financial life:

1. Your Money Mindset Matters

The way you think about money influences every financial decision you make. Many of these beliefs were shaped in childhood—often before you were even aware of them.

2. Family Influences Run Deep

Were you told things like “money doesn’t grow on trees” or “we can’t afford that”? These phrases, though common, can create a scarcity mindset that follows you into adulthood.

3. Money Stories Stick With You

Dr. Joanne shares her own experience of growing up in a home where eating out was rare and fast food coupons were the norm. Those habits, shaped by her upbringing, made it difficult for her to spend on quality food—even when she could afford it.

4. Mindset Affects Everyday Spending

When your default mindset is about saving every penny or seeking discounts, it can affect your quality of life, even in areas like nutrition or self-care. Sometimes, you have to give yourself permission to spend wisely and well.

5. Beliefs Need to Be Questioned

Just because you believed something as a child doesn’t mean it’s true or helpful now. Examine your money beliefs and ask: Does this still serve me?

6. Hard Work Doesn’t Always Equal Wealth

One common belief is “if I work hard, I’ll make money.” But hard work alone doesn’t guarantee financial stability—especially if your spending exceeds your earnings. Income isn’t the same as wealth.

7. The Meritocracy Myth

Society often tells us that good grades and a traditional job will make us rich. But in today’s world, that’s no longer a guarantee. Many successful people built wealth through entrepreneurship, creativity, or thinking outside the box.

8. There Are Many Paths to Wealth

Books like The Millionaire Next Door reveal that many millionaires live modest lives and are vocationally trained—not flashy CEOs or tech moguls. Wealth is often built quietly, with intention and discipline.

9. Reframe Your Money Beliefs

Instead of thinking “money is hard to get,” try reframing it to “money is a tool that flows to and through me.” Empowering money beliefs can help you create a healthier relationship with your finances.

10. Money Is Energy—and It Flows

Money isn’t something to fear. It’s a resource, a tool, and—especially in today’s digital world—an energy that flows easily when you understand how to manage it. Be grateful for what money allows you to do, and trust that it will continue to support you.

Your financial journey doesn’t start with your bank account—it starts with your beliefs. Take time to reflect, reframe, and reset your mindset. When you change the way you think about money, you change your entire financial future.

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