Money: goal or tool?

August 3, 2023

Money. It's something we all need, something we all strive for. But is it a goal in itself, or is it simply a tool to achieve our true goals and desires? Let's delve into this question and explore a different perspective on money.

Money as a goal

When we view money as a goal, we tend to focus on accumulating as much of it as we can. We work longer hours, we take on extra jobs, and we sacrifice our time, health, and relationships in the pursuit of wealth. But does this bring us happiness? Research suggests it doesn't. Once our basic needs are met, additional wealth has a minimal impact on our happiness.

Money as a tool

When we view money as a tool, our perspective changes. Instead of striving to accumulate wealth, we strive to use our wealth to achieve our true goals and desires. This could be travelling the world, starting a business, supporting a cause we care about, or simply having more time to spend with loved ones.

The benefits of viewing money as a tool

Viewing money as a tool has several benefits. It can reduce financial stress, as we're no longer constantly striving for more. It can also lead to a more balanced life, as we're not sacrificing our health and relationships for wealth. Additionally, it can bring a deeper sense of fulfilment, as we're using our wealth to pursue what truly matters to us.

How to shift our perspective

Shifting our perspective on money starts with identifying our true goals and desires. What do we want to achieve in life? What brings us joy and fulfilment? Once we've identified these, we can start to view money as a tool to achieve them.

In the words of the philosopher Seneca, "It is not the man who has too little, but the man who craves more, that is poor." Let's use the money we have to enrich our lives and pursue our true goals. After all, money is just a tool, and it's how we use it that counts.

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