Do You Have a Love/Hate Relationship with Money?

Let me start out by saying that I’m no therapist (I guess you knew that already).

But last week, I had a diva strategy call with someone who constantly talked about money. How she didn’t have enough to live on—let alone enough to spend on marketing.  How her credit cards were always maxed out.  How she was going to take out a loan to go on vacation with her girlfriends to France.

One thing that I do know for sure is that money and you are in a “relationship,” and like any other relationship, it’s important to pay attention to it, put effort into it, cherish and love it.

In Jen Sincero’s book, You Are a Badass (recommended by Lauren Zambelli), Jen has a chapter about writing yourself a “love note” about money.

Here’s an example of one that you may want to use—to get real with yourself.

The letter will help you to discover your beliefs about money.

And help you take ownership of the respect for money and what it can do for you, your family, your retirement, your favorite charity, and the world.

Regardless if you are a saver, spender or somewhere in between, you may want to print this email and, when you are alone, fill in the blanks.

Dear Money,

Our relationship has been a _________ one. It’s been filled with ______________ (love, happiness, anxiety, stress, hatred, resentment, etc.). I remember when _____________ (write every memory you have about money, positive and negative).

As I’ve gotten older, I realize that I’ve played a role in this, too. I’ve ______________ (insert ways you’ve sabotaged yourself or actively pushed money away).

The truth is, we both want the same things: _________________ (share what you want in your life). By partnering together, we really can have the best of both worlds.

We can look out for each other, provide for each other, and help each other live life to the fullest.

Thank you for always being there for me, no matter what I’ve said or done. Your generosity and kindness are inspiring, and I look forward to a long and happy future together.