"Money
is a good
servant, but a dangerous master."
- Dominique Bouhours
Licensed
by
Spiritual-Growth-Lounge.com
___
Money, in and of
itself, is just
printed paper. It's how we personally relate to money that determines
its usefulness or disservice to ourselves and others.
One very productive way to relate to our money is to remember that it
is an extension of our intentions and internal thinking. When we spend,
we do so to achieve a desired outcome. (But often we're on auto-pilot
and might not think too closely about it.) Next time we are going to
buy, we might tune in and consider what our investment really means.
Doing so allows us to live consciously and with heightened purpose.
Let's consider three different frames of mind for the purchase of a
sweater:
While on Auto-pilot: I'm buying this sweater because I need a sweater.
Positive Motivations: I'm buying this sweater. The weather has been
quite chilly lately, and I want to stay warm. The sweater is also a
great extension of me. It's warm and comfortable. It's attractive. I
deserve this sweater because I work hard and also because I enjoy nice
things in my life.
Not Very Positive Motivation: I'm here at the store buying this
sweater. I've been under quite a lot of stress at work lately. I know
I've spent a lot on myself this month, but this sweater might help me
feel a little better tonight. I'm feeling a tad guilty about it, but
I'm getting the sweater anyway. It's a very nice sweater and I could
use it.
Under which circumstances would we rather purchase that sweater? Which
serves us best? Our Auto-pilot thought is straightforward, but only
scratches the surface. The second approach gives us a little boost.
(It's also nice because it reinforces the meaning and significance of
our action.) The third line of thought reveals that our money and
energy could be spent in a healthier and more productive manner.
(Instead, we might consider buying and reading a book that presents us
with solution-minded ideas. Or invite a friend out for coffee and ask
for their ideas on how to positively address the situation. Or anything
more productive that comes to mind.)
As a good servant, money is a healthy and powerful force. It helps us
focus our most positive and productive energy. It feeds our family and
gives them a home. It helps us achieve our aspirations. It provides to
others who have less than we do.
The thing to remember is that money serves us best when we consciously
employ it in our lives. Like they say, it's all just a matter of
"spending wisely".
Spiritual Growth reflections:
Thinking
back, what was my frame of mind during my last sizeable purchase?
If I
wasn't clear about it then, what conscious motivation can I give myself
for that purchase now?