Feeling trapped by lack of funds? We can learn from those
who live comfortably and retire early. They speak a
different language from those who are stuck in a scarcity
process.
1. Banish the word "expensive" from your vocabulary.
Replace with, "That's not a priority for me."
"Expensive" is relative.
In my town, a group of people get together every day
for coffee and conversation. My neighbor, Jane, refuses
to participate
"Two dollars for a cup of coffee? " she sniffs.
"Expensive!"
When you work at home, you need a break and you want to
talk to other like-minded people. The value of coffee is
table rent and support. We want to keep the caf�open so
we'll have a place to hang out.
My friend "Laura" used to get her nails done every week
while she was unemployed and broke and had no interviews
lined up. Impractical? Frivolous? Expensive?
For Laura, manicures were a symbol of where she had been and
where she will be in the future.
She spent money for her priority with no regrets.
2. Banish the sentence "I can't afford it."
Replace with, "That's on my wish list."
Adding an item to your official wish list makes a statement.
Do you really want a new car, kitchen set or vacation? Or do
you realize you already have what you "can't afford?"
Looking around my eclectic collection of living room
furniture, I can dream of spending lavishly for designer
furniture, ceramic artwork and crystal lamps. I also know
these items will never appear on my wish list.
Even the best-mannered cat will deposit an occasional
surprise on the couch, and the dog's exuberant personality
can leave a trail of broken glass. Regardless of politics,
many of us empathized when the wife of newly-elected
Governor Jeb Bush admitted," When you have pets you can't
have an elegant home."
Saying "can't afford" puts you in a one-down position.
Creating a wish list generates abundance and clarifies
values. I'd put "three cats and two dogs" on my wish -- but
not "designer furniture."
3. Forbid all talk about what you don't have.
Replace with appreciation for what you enjoy now.
Hortensia complains about her lack of money . True, her
salary is not high by any standards -- but her job offers
security, generous vacation time, and excellent retirement
benefits. Her location allows her to hike in the woods and
fish in the lakes.
An image of abundance will enhance your strengths. Most of
us have more than we realize -- in real as well as abstract
terms. I encourage clients to meet with a financial
planner, especially if they're facing experiencing career
transition. Often a professional review helps people
realize they're better off than they realized.
Bottom Line
Talking your way to financial freedom -- simple? Yes, but
effective. Try these steps for a week and notice a
difference -- first in your thoughts, soon in your life.
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About The Author
Cathy Goodwin, Ph.D., is an author, speaker and career
coach. She works with midlife professionals who
seek greater freedom in their work and life.
Free Career Freedom
ezine: http://www.movinglady.com/subscribe.html.
Find more articles and resources on
http://www.movinglady.com.
Phone: 505-534-4194
Email: cathy@movinglady.com
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