How a shift in focus can change your view on money

August 3, 2023

Imagine you're standing in front of a beautiful landscape painting. You're so close that all you can see are the individual brush strokes. But when you take a step back, you see the whole picture - the rolling hills, the vibrant sunset, the tranquil river. Suddenly, you understand the true beauty of the painting.

Our view on money can be a lot like this. When we're focused on material possessions, we're looking at the individual brush strokes. We're caught up in the details - the price tags, the brands, the latest trends. But when we shift our focus to experiences and personal growth, we take a step back and see the whole picture. We see the true value of money - and how not everything with a massive price tag has the value to match.

Experiences over possessions

Research shows that experiences bring us more happiness than possessions. The joy of a holiday, a concert, or a meal with friends often outweighs the fleeting satisfaction of a new purchase. Experiences give us memories to cherish, stories to tell, and a sense of connection with others.

Personal growth over material wealth

Investing in personal growth - whether it's learning a new skill, pursuing a hobby, or improving our health - can bring us more fulfilment than accumulating material wealth. Personal growth enhances our self-esteem, broadens our horizons, and contributes to our overall wellbeing.

Quality over quantity

When we shift our focus from having more to having better, we start to appreciate the quality of things. We value the craftsmanship of a well-made item, the freshness of organic food, the comfort of a cosy home. We start to understand that less can be more.

Giving over receiving

Giving, whether it's our time, our skills, or our resources, can bring us more joy than receiving. Helping others, contributing to our community, and making a difference in the world can give us a sense of purpose and fulfilment that money can't buy.

So, how can we make this shift in focus? Start by asking yourself what truly matters to you. What brings you joy? What gives your life meaning? Then, make a conscious effort to focus on these things. Remember, money is just a tool. It's how we use it that counts. As the saying goes, "Money can't buy happiness, but it can help us pursue the things that do."

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