The gap between our income and ego

Is money linked to our ego? It’s a question that invites us to reflect on the deeper motivations behind our financial decisions. Morgan Housel, in his thought-provoking way, suggests that “savings is the gap between your income and your ego.”

This statement can be confronting, especially because it challenges us to consider the extent to which our financial behaviours are driven by a desire to maintain or enhance our sense of self-worth. While Housel’s observation holds some truth, it’s important to recognise that the relationship between money, ego, and personal fulfilment is far more nuanced than it first appears.

At first glance, the idea of adopting a low-ego, high-humility approach to wealth-building might seem like the most logical path. The reasoning is simple: by curbing spending driven by ego and instead focusing on saving and investing, we can accelerate our journey toward financial independence. This approach, however, can sometimes feel overly simplistic. It suggests that ego is inherently detrimental to financial success and overlooks the complex ways in which our values, purpose, and sense of fulfilment intersect with our spending choices.

For many, spending isn’t merely about satisfying an inflated sense of self-worth. It’s deeply intertwined with values, purpose, and the pursuit of personal fulfilment. Consider, for example, someone who chooses to invest in high-quality experiences or products—not to showcase their wealth, but because these choices align with their core values or bring them a deep sense of joy and meaning. In such cases, spending is not just about ego; it’s about living in alignment with what truly matters to them.

This brings us to the essential concept of balance. Financial independence isn’t just about cutting expenses to the bone or maximising wealth accumulation. It’s about ensuring that our financial decisions reflect both our personal values and long-term goals. When our spending is aligned with what we value most, money becomes more than just a means to an end; it becomes a tool that helps us lead a life filled with purpose and fulfilment. It’s not about living frugally for the sake of frugality, but about making intentional choices that serve our deeper aspirations.

This balance is critical because it acknowledges that wealth and fulfilment are not mutually exclusive. It’s possible to spend on things that matter to us—whether it’s on quality, experiences, or passions—without compromising our long-term financial goals. This requires a strategic financial plan that accounts for these intentional choices, allowing us to enjoy the fruits of our labour while still securing our financial future.

Understanding the link between money and ego is part of a larger journey toward self-awareness and intentional living. It invites us to examine where ego may be driving our financial decisions and where our spending truly reflects what we value most. By doing this inner work, we can create a financial plan that doesn’t just aim for wealth accumulation but also for a life that feels rich in purpose and fulfilment. In this way, money serves its highest purpose—supporting a well-lived life with balance, intention, and clarity.

Nudging, not judging

Change is one of those things that we all know is necessary but often struggle with. Whether it’s a change in our spending habits, our health routines, or our approach to relationships, the process can be daunting. The desire to improve is there, but the path forward isn’t always clear or easy. This is where the concept of “nudging, not judging” can be transformative.

It’s about guiding ourselves and others toward positive change with gentle encouragement rather than harsh criticism. When it comes to financial planning, this philosophy is particularly powerful. Let’s be honest—money is a sensitive subject!

We often feel judged, not just by others, but by ourselves, when we don’t make the “right” decisions. We look at our past financial mistakes and wonder why we didn’t do better. But this self-judgment only deepens the sense of failure and can keep us stuck in a cycle of guilt and avoidance.

Instead, what if we approached financial change with a “nudge-ment” rather than a judgment? A nudge is a small, positive reinforcement or a gentle prompt that encourages us to make better decisions. It’s not about drastically overhauling our entire financial life overnight. It’s about making incremental improvements that, over time, lead to significant progress.

For example, let’s say you want to start saving more but haven’t been able to make it happen. Instead of judging yourself for not saving enough, start by setting up a small automatic transfer from your checking account to your savings account each month. This simple nudge helps build the habit of saving without the pressure of making a huge financial sacrifice all at once. Over time, as your savings grow, you might find it easier to increase that amount—because the habit is already in place.

Nudging can also be applied to how we interact with others about money. Too often, conversations about finances can become tense or judgmental, particularly in relationships or families. By adopting a nudge approach, we can foster a more supportive environment for discussing money. Instead of criticising a partner for their spending habits, for instance, we might suggest a joint goal that requires both of you to save a little more each month. This way, you’re working together toward a positive outcome rather than focusing on past mistakes.

The power of nudging lies in its subtlety. It recognises that change is a process, not an event. Small, consistent actions, driven by encouragement rather than criticism, create a foundation for lasting change. And the best part? These small changes often lead to a ripple effect, where one positive action leads to another, creating momentum that makes larger changes feel more achievable.

So, as you think about the changes you want to make in your financial life, remember the power of the nudge. Start with one small step, encourage yourself along the way, and let go of the harsh judgments that hold you back. Because in the end, it’s the consistent, positive nudges that lead to the most meaningful and sustainable change.

All behaviour is communication

Have you ever paused to consider what your behaviour might be saying about you… to you? It’s a fascinating thought, isn’t it? All behaviour is a form of communication. Every action we take, every choice we make, sends a message, not only to the world around us but also to ourselves.

In the realm of financial planning, this idea becomes particularly intriguing. What are our financial behaviours trying to tell us?

Think about it. When you splurge on an expensive item, what is that behaviour communicating? Perhaps it’s a statement about your desire for status, or maybe it’s about seeking comfort in material things during stressful times, or perhaps it’s your ability to reward yourself and invest in self-care.

When you diligently save a portion of your income each month, what message does that send? It could be a testament to your commitment to future security or a reflection of your values around financial responsibility.

In many ways, our financial behaviours are deeply tied to our identities, our fears, and our dreams. They reveal what we value, what we aspire to, and what we are afraid of. By paying attention to these behaviours, we can gain profound insights into ourselves and use that understanding to shape a more fulfilling financial future.

Take, for example, the act of budgeting. On the surface, it might seem like a dry, technical task—allocating numbers into categories. But look a little deeper, and you’ll see that budgeting is a powerful form of self-communication. It’s you telling yourself that your financial goals are important, that you are capable of managing your resources wisely, and that you have the discipline to follow through on your plans.

Or consider the behaviour of investing. Investing is more than just a strategy to grow your wealth. It’s a statement of faith in the future. It’s you saying, “I believe that my money can work for me, and I trust that the world will continue to provide opportunities for growth.” This behaviour communicates optimism, courage, and a proactive mindset.

Even the way we handle financial setbacks speaks volumes. When faced with an unexpected expense or a market downturn, our reactions can reveal our resilience, our ability to adapt, and our level of emotional intelligence. Do we panic and make impulsive decisions, or do we stay calm and think strategically about our next steps? Each response is a form of communication that reflects our inner strength and our capacity for growth.

The beauty of recognising that all behaviour is communication is that it empowers us to change. We can rewrite the script once we understand the messages our financial behaviours are sending. If we notice that our spending habits communicate a need for emotional comfort, we can find healthier ways to address that need. If we see that our reluctance to save is rooted in a fear of scarcity, we can work on cultivating a mindset of abundance and security.

In this journey of self-discovery and growth, it’s important to remember that we don’t have to do it alone. Just as our behaviours communicate messages to ourselves, they also communicate to those around us—our family, our friends, our financial advisors. By sharing our insights and working together, we can support each other in making positive changes and achieving our financial goals.

So, why do we plan?

Have you ever wondered why we spend so much time planning, even when we know that life rarely goes according to plan? It’s a curious thought, especially when it comes to financial planning. Carl Richards beautifully encapsulates this paradox: “In fact, the only thing we know for sure about any good financial plan the moment we finish designing it is that it’s wrong. We just don’t know exactly how… yet.”

This might sound disheartening at first, but it’s a profound truth that holds a valuable lesson. To explore this further, Carl spoke with several pilots, posing two questions. First, “Do you prepare a flight plan for every single flight?” The answer was always a resounding “Yes.” The second question, “How often does the flight go exactly as you planned?” The response, invariably, was “Never.”

Despite knowing that their plans would change, they still took the time to prepare meticulously. So, why do we plan?

The answer lies not in the accuracy of the plan, but in the process and the mindset it fosters. Planning, especially in the context of financial planning, is less about predicting the future with perfect accuracy and more about preparing ourselves to adapt and respond effectively to whatever comes our way.

Think of financial planning as setting a course for your life’s journey. Without a plan, you’re adrift on the winds of change, reacting to changing conditions rather than steering towards your desired destination. With a plan, you have a direction, a purpose, and a set of guidelines that help you make informed decisions, even when the unexpected happens.

Consider this: a pilot’s flight plan includes not just the intended route, but also contingency plans for various scenarios—weather changes, technical issues, or unexpected detours. Similarly, a good financial plan is flexible and resilient. It takes into account your goals, resources, and potential obstacles, and it provides a framework for making adjustments as needed.

When we create a financial plan, we acknowledge that life is unpredictable. We prepare for the known variables and set ourselves up to handle the unknowns. This proactive approach empowers us to stay focused on our long-term goals, even as we navigate the twists and turns that life inevitably throws our way.

Moreover, the act of planning itself has intrinsic value. It forces us to think critically about our priorities, define our goals, and identify the steps we need to take to achieve them. It encourages us to engage in meaningful conversations with our loved ones about our hopes and dreams, fostering deeper understanding and alignment.

So, why do we plan, knowing that our plans will inevitably change? Because the process of planning is about much more than the final document. It’s about preparing ourselves to manage uncertainty with clarity and purpose. It’s about building a strong foundation that can support us through the ups and downs of life. And most importantly, it’s about empowering ourselves to live intentionally and to pursue our dreams with confidence.

Problems that seem simple at first

Life’s a bit of a puzzle, isn’t it? We look at our problems and think, “Oh, that’s straightforward enough.” But then we start digging, and suddenly we’re in a whole different ballgame. It’s like peeling an onion – layer after layer, each revealing something new. And you know what? There’s a reason for all this complexity – and it’s not just to bring tears to our eyes…

Most of the time, the issues we’re facing are just the tip of the iceberg, hinting at bigger stuff going on beneath the surface. It’s all connected – our physical health, our state of mind, our spiritual well-being, and how we relate to others. It’s a big, interconnected web, and each thread tells a story.

Remember that scene in Shrek where Shrek tells Donkey that ogres are like onions because they have layers? Well, our problems are a lot like that. On the surface, they seem simple, much like Shrek and Donkey’s initial plan to have the squatters removed from Shrek’s land by Lord Farquaad. They thought it would be a quick, straightforward trip. But as their journey unfolds, it turns into a grand adventure with unexpected twists and deeper revelations.

Similarly, as we peel back each layer of our problems, we discover more about ourselves and the underlying issues at play. This complexity isn’t just a hassle; it’s a clue to understanding the bigger picture of our lives. Just like Shrek and Donkey’s journey, our path might be longer and more intricate than we initially thought, but each layer we uncover brings us closer to true understanding and resolution.

Imagine you have a financial issue that initially appears straightforward, like an unexpected expense. At first glance, it’s a matter of finding the money to cover it. But as you delve deeper, you might uncover layers of underlying concerns: stress about financial stability, feelings of inadequacy, or even relationship tensions stemming from money management.

When we acknowledge these deeper connections, the landscape of our problems shifts, they are no longer isolated incidents but part of a larger, intricate web of our lives. This realisation can be overwhelming, but it also opens up a pathway to true understanding and growth.

So, the philosophical question remains: How do we begin to unwrap the deeper layers? The answer lies in being aware that our problems are interconnected threads woven into our broader life story. By engaging in open, honest conversations with those we trust, we gain the strength and clarity to address these issues holistically.

Having people to talk to when we face problems is not a sign of weakness; it’s a testament to our relational strength. It’s an acknowledgment that we don’t have to navigate this complex maze alone. Speaking to a trusted partner, friend, or advisor provides us with new perspectives and shared wisdom, illuminating aspects of the problem we might have missed.

Carl Richards often illustrates complex financial concepts with simple sketches, reminding us that clarity often emerges from simplicity. In the same vein, reaching out for help can simplify the complexities we face, breaking them down into manageable steps.

Don’t be afraid to tap into your support network. Speak to a trusted partner, friend, or advisor. Their insights can help you untangle the complexities and guide you toward meaningful solutions. Remember, it’s through these connections and the commitment to diving deeper that we find more meaning and experience fulfillment.

From Hocus Pocus to Financial Focus

You know that feeling when you check your bank account and suddenly you’re thinking, “Hocus pocus, I’m brokus”? Yeah, we’ve all been there. It’s like one minute you’re feeling on top of the world, and the next, poof! Your money’s vanished faster than a rabbit in a magician’s hat.

But here’s the thing: our finances aren’t actually controlled by some mysterious, magical force. Even though it might feel that way sometimes! Nope, it’s all about the choices we make every day, the little decisions that add up over time. Kind of like how a magician practices their tricks over and over until they can pull off that jaw-dropping illusion.

So, let’s talk about turning that financial “brokus” into focus. It’s not about waving a magic wand (wouldn’t that be nice?), but about understanding the ‘tricks’ of good money management.

First off, budgeting. We all know it’s about as exciting as watching paint dry. But hear this out – it’s like learning the basic moves before you can dance. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll be grooving with your finances in no time. Start small – maybe just track your spending for a week. You might be surprised at what you find out!

Then there’s saving. It’s not about squirrelling away huge chunks of money (unless you can, in which case, go for it!). It’s about consistently putting a little bit aside. Think of it like filling a piggy bank. At first, it might not feel like much, but keep at it, and before you know it, you’ve got a nice little stash. It’s not about growing money, but about building a safety net, one coin at a time. The real power is in the habit – regularly setting aside what you can, no matter how small the amount.

And investments? Now, that’s where the real financial growth can happen, though it might feel like hocus pocus at first. But here’s the thing – it doesn’t have to be complicated. Start with something simple; it’s like dipping your toe in the investment pool before diving in.

Always remember, though, that investments come with risks, and it’s crucial to do your homework. Don’t be shy about seeking advice from a financial professional or trusted source. Think of it like joining a study group for a tough class – you’re learning alongside others, sharing insights, and hopefully all growing your knowledge (and your money) together. Just remember, unlike our savings piggy bank, investments can go up and down, so it’s important to understand what you’re getting into and be prepared for some ups and downs along the way.

The real magic happens when you combine all these elements – budgeting, saving, and investing. It’s like pulling off a complex magic trick. Each part on its own might not seem that impressive, but put them all together and… ta-da! Financial stability!

So the next time you’re feeling a bit “brokus,” don’t panic. Take a deep breath, and remember – you’ve got the power to change your financial story. It’s not about hocus pocus, it’s about focus. And with a little patience and persistence, you can turn your financial life from a disappearing act into a showpiece.

The art of switching off

What if the key to unlocking a richer, more fulfilling life lies not in doing more, but in doing less? In our hyper-connected world, where the lines between work and personal life are increasingly blurred, this question has never been more relevant.

The older we get, the more we see and learn how burnout can impact not just our emotional well-being, but our relationships and finances too. The constant pressure to be “on” can lead to poor decision-making, strained personal connections, and even financial missteps.

But here’s the good news: creating an intentional switch-off routine can be a game-changer. Just as we carefully plan our financial strategies, we need to design our daily routines with equal thoughtfulness.

Imagine ending our workday with a ritual that clearly signals to our brains that it’s time to shift gears. It could be as simple as playing a specific song, changing our shoes, or taking a few minutes to meditate. The key is consistency – making it a habit that sticks.

This isn’t just about work-life balance; it’s about life-wealth balance. When we’re constantly in work mode, we’re more likely to make impulsive financial decisions, overlook important personal relationships, and neglect self-care. All of these can have a significant impact on our overall financial well-being.

Consider this: How often have we made unnecessary purchases because we were too stressed or tired to think clearly? How many times have we missed out on quality time with loved ones because we were mentally still at work? These seemingly small moments add up, affecting both our emotional and financial health.

By creating a clear boundary between work and personal time, we give ourselves the space to recharge, reconnect with our values, and make more mindful decisions – financial and otherwise.

Remember the wise words of Anne Lamott: “Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you.”

So, let’s circle back to our original question: What if the key to a richer life is in doing less? After exploring the benefits of intentional unplugging, we believe the answer is a resounding yes. By giving ourselves permission to switch off, we’re not just avoiding burnout – we’re investing in our overall well-being, our relationships, and ultimately, our financial future.

Our wealth isn’t just about the numbers in our bank accounts. It’s about creating lives rich in experiences, relationships, and personal fulfilment. And sometimes, the best way to grow that wealth is to simply unplug.

The Baby-Steps Rule for Financial Growth

You know, it’s funny how we often think about our finances. We look at our bank accounts or our debts and think, “Wow, I need to make some big changes here.” And then we get overwhelmed and end up doing… well, nothing. Sound familiar?

But here’s the thing: what if we didn’t need to make those massive, life-altering changes all at once? What if we could improve our financial situation just a little bit every day? That’s where the 1% rule comes in, and, it’s a game-changer.

“If you get 1% better each day for one year, you’ll end up thirty-seven times better by the time you’re done.” — James Clear

Think about it this way. If you’re trying to save money, you don’t have to suddenly start putting away half your paycheck (unless you can, in which case, go you!). Instead, why not start by saving just 1% more than you are now? It might not seem like much, but over time, it adds up. And the best part? You probably won’t even notice that small amount leaving your account.

The same goes for budgeting. Maybe you’ve been meaning to track your expenses but the thought of logging every single purchase feels daunting. So why not start by just tracking one category of spending? Just your groceries, or your entertainment expenses. It’s a small step, but it’s a start.

And investments? Oh boy, that’s a whole world that can seem super complicated. But you don’t need to become a Wall Street wizard overnight. Maybe you start by increasing your investment contribution by 1% every month. Or you set aside a small amount each month to invest in a low-cost index fund. Baby steps.

The beauty of the 1% rule is that it makes things manageable. It’s not about overhauling your entire financial life in one go. It’s about making small, consistent improvements. And here’s the kicker – those small improvements compound over time. Just like James Clear said, if you get 1% better each day for a year, you end up 37 times (3778%) better. That’s huge!

Remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is financial stability. But brick by brick, or in this case, percent by percent, we can build something pretty amazing. So, let’s get started, shall we? After all, your future self will thank you for every 1% improvement you make today.

The Monte Carlo Fallacy

Also known as the gambler’s fallacy, the Monte Carlo fallacy is the mistaken belief that past events can influence future outcomes in situations where the events are actually independent. This fallacy, or cognitive bias, originates from the world of gambling, where players may erroneously believe that a streak of losses makes a win more likely or vice versa.

In reality, each spin of the roulette wheel or roll of the dice is an independent event, unaffected by what happened before. The odds remain the same, regardless of previous outcomes. However, our minds struggle with this concept, often seeking patterns and meaning where none exist.

In the realm of financial planning, making sound decisions is crucial for long-term success and well-being. However, our minds are not always as rational as we might hope, and we can tag onto patterns that aren’t accurate. Cognitive biases, such as the gambler’s fallacy, can subtly influence our planning processes and lead us astray.

This cognitive bias can manifest in various ways in our financial lives. For example, an investor who has experienced a series of losses may believe that they are “due” for a win, leading them to make riskier investments or to hold onto losing positions longer than they should. Conversely, an investor who has had a streak of success may become overconfident, believing that their past performance guarantees future results.

The gambler’s fallacy can also influence our perception of market trends. If the stock market has been on a prolonged bull run, some investors may believe that a downturn is imminent, causing them to sell off their positions prematurely. Similarly, if the market has experienced a significant drop, some may hesitate to invest, believing that further losses are inevitable.

So, how can we guard against the influence of the gambler’s fallacy in our financial decision-making? Here are a few strategies to consider:

1. Understand the independence of events:
Remind yourself that past performance does not guarantee future results. Each investment decision should be evaluated on its own merits, based on current market conditions and your personal financial goals.

2. Consider data and analysis:
Rather than making decisions based on gut feelings or hunches, ground your financial choices in solid research and data. Consult with a financial planner who can provide objective insights and help you maintain a long-term perspective.

3. Embrace a diversified portfolio:
By spreading your investments across a range of asset classes and sectors, you can help mitigate the impact of short-term market fluctuations and reduce the temptation to make reactionary decisions based on recent performance.

4. Check in with yourself:
When making financial decisions, take a moment to check in with yourself. What emotional factors or cognitive biases are influencing you? By bringing awareness to your thought processes and feelings, you can make more clear-headed, healthy choices.

5. Maintain a long-term outlook:
Remember that successful financial planning is a marathon, not a sprint. Short-term market movements, whether positive or negative, are less important than your overall trajectory. Stay focused on your long-term goals and resist the urge to make impulsive decisions based on recent events.

The gambler’s fallacy is just one of many cognitive biases that can impact our financial choices. By understanding these biases and actively working to counteract them, we can make more informed, level-headed decisions about our money.

Is your money working for you?

Either you put your money to work for you, or you will always have to work for your money. Understanding and acting on this concept can be the difference between perpetual financial strain and achieving lasting financial freedom.

At its core, putting your money to work means investing in avenues that generate passive income—earnings you receive without actively working for them daily. This could mean investing in stocks, bonds, real estate, or even starting or investing in businesses. The idea is to make strategic moves now that ensure your money grows and yields returns over time, effectively making your capital (invested money) work on your behalf.

Conversely, if you don’t actively manage your money to grow independently, you remain in a cycle where your lifestyle is directly tied to the hours you work and the paycheck you receive. This scenario often results in a situation where, despite hard work and dedication, advancing financially feels like running on a treadmill—constant effort but no forward movement.

The first step towards shifting this dynamic is to educate yourself about investment options and understand what works best for your financial situation and risk tolerance. Financial literacy is critical because it empowers you to make informed decisions that compound positively over time. It involves understanding the basics of the stock market, the principles of real estate investment, or the potential of bonds and mutual funds to generate regular income.

Once you have a solid understanding, the next step is to start small. You don’t need a large sum of money to begin. Thanks to modern investment platforms, even modest amounts can be strategically placed in diversified portfolios that minimise risk and maximise potential returns. The key is consistency and a long-term perspective. Regularly investing small amounts can grow into substantial wealth due to the power of compound interest.

As your investments grow, it’s important to regularly review and adjust your portfolio. This doesn’t mean reacting hastily to market fluctuations—rather, it means ensuring your investments continue to align with your evolving financial goals and life circumstances. This might include rebalancing your portfolio to maintain a desired level of risk or redirecting investments to focus on higher-yielding opportunities.

Moreover, putting your money to work for you should not be a set-and-forget strategy. Active financial management involves keeping abreast of economic trends, understanding tax implications, and planning for the long term, including retirement and estate planning. Each of these aspects plays a crucial role in how effectively your money works for you.

Choosing to make your money work for you is choosing your future financial independence over immediate income. It’s about leveraging available resources to create additional sources of income that provide security and prosperity regardless of your ability to work. This strategy doesn’t just change how you handle your finances—it changes how you live your life, offering freedom and opportunities that continuous work for wages simply cannot provide.

This decision isn’t just financial; it’s profoundly personal. By deciding to put your money to work, you’re not just planning for a wealthier future; you’re crafting a life where your time and choices are yours alone, unshackled from the necessity of perpetual work.