Money and Meaning
Sometimes, what blocks our financial freedom, abundance, clarity, stability, and calm isn’t about income or spending. That’s why some people are rich yet still craving more, and some people have very little yet feel happy.
Often, we attach meaning to financial situations that isn’t really there. We learn these relationships from society, culture, family, and personal experience.
For example, artists in particular receive a lot of negative messaging assigning meaning that isn’t there.
“you’re a sellout.”
“don’t quit your day job”
“get a real job”
“another starving artist”
All these narratives undermining the value of the artists work.
Some stories come from role models: you must work extremely hard to earn money. Others teach entitlement without effort. Both can disempower your financial choices.
Intergenerational stories also shape us. Grandparents or great-grandparents may have survived wars, depressions, or extreme hardship, leaving a legacy of scarcity or fear of financial instability. Migrant and refugee communities often carry similar narratives. Even with a full bank account, we can feel like it’s never enough.
Archetypes and stories can influence us subconsciously. Where are you falling into a story about who you should be, what money means about you, what work should or shouldn’t look like, what wealth or the lack of it represents?
Unpack the stories that may be holding you back:
- “I’m not good with money.” Where did that come from? Is it true? If so, learn the skill—you don’t have to live by it forever.
- “I am entitled.” Maybe yes, maybe no.
- “There’s never enough. I’ll be destitute.”
Reflect on your stories:
- What are the stories I’m telling myself?
- What did I learn about money growing up?
- How have those lessons helped or hindered me?
- What positive stories do I carry? (E.g., “I’m resourceful.”)
We need to examine both positive and negative stories. How are they serving us? How are they holding us back? This is reflection to help us move out of fight-or-flight around finances and build foundations for self-actualisation: a life where you feel resourced, purposeful, and aligned. Pull in support if needed—a therapist or someone you trust.
Journalling Activity: Money and Meaning
- What did you learn about money growing up?
- What helpful money skills did that teach you?
- What unhelpful money stories and habits did that teach you?
- What money stories or beliefs are getting in your way now?
