Health is one of the ultimate forms of wealth. When you are sick or a loved one is sick, this fact becomes crystal clear. At other times, we take our health for granted. Health and money are very similar this way. If we are not mindful and aware of our health, it can become depleted and cause us pain, much like money. Also, much like money, how we treat our health now, affects us in the future. Healthy habits and practices pay us dividends in the future for our bodies, minds, and our money.

Whenever I become ill or someone I love becomes ill, it causes me to pause and reevaluate. To take stock of where I am in my life, where I want to go, and more importantly how am I being. How do I approach each day? What can I do better? What can I let go? Am I operating both soft and strong? Am I using my voice authentically, with passion and intelligence, while operating in kindness? Am I setting boundaries and respecting others’ boundaries? Am I experiencing the fullness of life? Am I being of service? Am I letting joy in every day? Change the am I to I am and you change the trajectory of your life.

How Do You Face Fear?

Fear knocks on everyone’s door at some point: fear of the unknown, fear of uncertainty, fear of pain, fear of loss, fear of a broken heart, fear of unemployment, fear of a pandemic, or any other form fear takes in our lives. Fear, like money issues, cannot be avoided. Yet, you can look fear in the eye and say I take you on- I will get through this. I believe love is stronger than fear. So whether we are talking a health concern or loss of a job during COVID- you will get through this. It may not look exactly like you expected but you will get through this. Health and wealth both start with self love. Embrace yourself, your life, and find the joy- even in the fear. Learn to fear less and love more.

In a Psychology Today article, Dr. Susan Biali Haas MD, states, “In most situations, it is worse for you and your life to avoid what you are afraid of instead of facing it.” https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/prescriptions-life/201808/help-anxiety-facing-your-fears-will-heal-your-brain Dr. Haas goes on to say, “What will hurt us, is living an ever-smaller life because we think we can’t handle things in it.” Dr. Haas, I wholeheartedly agree with you. Shine your light- everyone has one- you just have to turn it on.

Making Healthy Choices

From a practical standpoint health and money are also intertwined. When we handle our money responsibly, we are calmer and less stressed, which improves our health. Money worries are one of the biggest stressors in life. When you begin to get your money situation under control and ultimately working for you, stress reduces, and you are healthier.

Also, when you have a monthly budget, a positive money mindset, continue to educate yourself on money matters, remain aware, and make sound money choices you begin to put the pieces of your financial puzzle together. You learn that everything is connected.

For example, once you budget you may realize that you spend a significant amount of money on take out or other convenience food and beverages. You then realize that not only can you reduce the cost of a budget item rather quickly, you can also improve your health in the process. So you go to the grocery store and buy healthier foods for less money. You save take out for a special treat. You have accomplished better health and better budgeting in one easy move. Take the money you saved and put it in your emergency fund or start an investment account. Get creative, have fun, and learn the interconnectedness of the actions we take in our lives.

Your health is a significant part of your wealth. Take care of yourself, shine your light, help others, don’t carry grudges, or animosity. Focus on the joy of money and the joy of life. It’s out there- be looking for it and it will find you. Gotta run- that’s one of my favorite ways to get exercise, create space to think, and be outside in nature. #FindYourBliss.

Sincerely and with gratitude,

Susan, The MoneyMaestra