By Abbey L. Henderson, CFP®, RLP®, CPCC®
As we talk about their financial goals, I often hear my clients make comparisons with their friends, colleagues and neighbors. Instead of manifesting abundance, they’re focused on what they DON’T have.
It’s easy to make comparisons, especially nowadays where people share all the bright, shiny things in their lives 24/7 via social media. Have you ever caught yourself thinking…
How can they afford that luxury vacation… that fancy new car, that new addition on their house? Don’t they make more or less the same amount I do? I certainly can’t afford those things… so what am I doing wrong?
There’s a reason why envy has been considered a negative quality for thousands of year! Of course, at times we all momentarily wish we could have some tantalizing “thing” but if we dwell on it we can derail our financial decisions and goals.
Here are a few simple ways to manifesting abundance throughout your financial journey:
Give yourself a reality check. I like to remind clients that things are often not as they seem. Maybe they’ve been diligently saving for this special treat for years! Maybe they’ve been fortunate and benefited from a gift or inheritance. On the other hand, it could be that they may not be saving any money or worse they’re running up a lot of debt. The thing is you have no idea what’s involved with their personal finances so comparing what they have to what you can and can’t afford just doesn’t work.
Focus on what you do have. Where do you have abundance in your life? It doesn’t need to be financial, it could be many friends, a career you love, a family you can count on… Often these are the very things others sacrifice in order to get ahead. Instead of focusing on scarcity, concentrate on manifesting abundance to experience a more fulfilling life. Some find it helpful to write down a gratitude list. The next time you find yourself comparing yourself unfavorably with someone, pull out your list!
Value long-term dreams, over temporary pleasures. Whether it’s friends showing off on social media or advertisers dangling enjoy-now-pay-later temptations, we can easily get sidetracked. Which is why it’s important to take time to focus on your big vision of the future and what brings you joy and fulfillment. When you’re clear on your values, your priorities, what makes you happy, it’s much easier to stay focused on your vision of future success.
I love what Judy Garland said,
“Always be a first rate version of yourself
and not a second rate version of someone else.”
Channel your envy into productivity. Envy or dissatisfaction usually begins as a passive emotion, which just leads to frustration. But the next time you find yourself making comparisons, stop and think it through. Is this something you truly want? Does it line up with your priorities and values? What do you need to do to get it? Is it worth the sacrifices? If so, then make a plan of action and work progressively toward your goal. Perhaps this comparison with someone else is the motivation you need to start being more proactive about your financial future.
Instead of looking sideways at others, manifesting abundance with these simple suggestions helps you focus straight ahead at your own financial journey. Would you like to wake up every morning invigorated because you’re aligned with your life’s purpose? My Exceptional Life Plan will help you gain deep satisfaction knowing your money is serving you, instead of the other way around. Feel free to schedule a complimentary Financial Life Plan Discovery Session with me to learn how to make your vision a reality.