How to Avoid Money Envy

Money envy

Thanks for such a sensitive discussion. I am one of those obsessive -compulsive types. I think my values regarding money were in part due to the implosions my parents had whenever they disagreed about money. Mother was a stay-at-home Mom who babysat other folks' kids for her own money. She was a shop-aholic--especially at thrift stores for abandoned designer clothes and other stuff. I am now finding out that I am my Mother's child because I shop way too much. I believe it's a false sense of power and control that's operating.

I learned a bitter lesson. I went to prison. Now I know that less can mean more. I became more grateful and humble that I had a home to return to as I met some women who were released without any place they could call home.

I've learned what's really important...saving money for my retirement, creating memories for my grandchildren and being of service to others. I also have some major health issues no amount of money or "stuff" can cure. So I take one day at a time and I'm working on getting straightened out about my money values.

Twinkie1 of MO @ Apr 15, 2008 01:09:05 AM

Thanks for this article..I think all of us need to learn how to balance our own life instead of judging and comparing what others possesses. I wish everyone could be less distracted and be more focus of what we got.

ajn of LA @ Dec 18, 2007 20:09:35 PM

How to avoid money envy

Great article. It was thought provoking. I take great pride in trying my best to be fiscally responsible and financially prudent. It definitely makes me feel better that those who have more than you, are not necessarily doing better financially. It certainly does provide more psychological comfort, when you know that the newly tailored Amarni suit that your friend is boasting about was bought on store credit :) .

As a side note, although we are all susceptible to envy, I also think it is very immature to feel that you have to keep up with other people. Wouldn't you say? For goodness sake, aren't we not responsible, and civilized adults, who can get beyond the sophomoric Jr High School mentality of envy.

Grow up!

Michael of WA @ Dec 18, 2007 19:55:17 PM

Econonmics

This article describes exactly what i try to tell my wife. Living on a budget is extremely difficult when others seem to be attaining more stuff. But tht is all it is ; Is stuff. my argument is to state to myself this is my income bracket this is what i have and i am happy with it , mainly because it is paid for...... To counter attack my wife's argumen when the JONES" get something I say yeah but it aint theirs yet ,, cause they have not paid the credit card bill ... VIsa still owns it baby....and them...

Moonc of GA @ Dec 18, 2007 13:58:33 PM

Great Article!

This is a great reminder of the wisdom of living in gratitude for what we do have and not comparing ourselves to those who appear to have more. Thank you for a wonderful piece of writing. I will print it and stick it on my fridge!

Lynne Stokell of CA @ Dec 18, 2007 13:30:57 PM

Retirement

Even if you have never overcharged and saved your money before you have spent it. You may be better off than most people but it is still very difficult to retire. Do you have any advise on how to retire by even 62?

Beth of IL @ Dec 18, 2007 12:56:07 PM

THIS IS SO TRUE! I HAVE A FRIEND THAT IS CONSTANTLY BUYING THINGS ONLINE OR AT THE MALLS. THIS IS TO THE POINT THAT IS HAS CONSUMED HER. I MYSELF WAS LIVING THIS WAY AND IT CAME TO END WITH FINANCIAL DISASTER, I AM CLIMBING MY WAY UP NOW BUT I LOOK AT HER AND I WANT TO TELL HER TO GET AHOLD OF HERSELF BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE, BUT I NEED TO MIND MY OWN BUSINESS AND I AM NOT 100% SURE THAT SHE IS USING CREDIT CARDS.

of @ Dec 18, 2007 12:52:15 PM