Why Do You Want to Be Rich?
I started reading Ramit Sethi’s book “I Will Teach You To Be Rich” this weekend. Yes, I was the nerdy girl that excitedly ordered the book the day it came out. I love Ramit’s blog, his writing style and the fact that his advice is tailored to our generation.
Anyways, in the first chapter Ramit asks “Why Do You Want to Be Rich?” Most people look at this question and generalize it. They probably answer saying something along the lines of “I want it all.” If you are an aspiring millionaire, I think it’s important to start somewhere with what being rich really means to us as individuals. It is different for everyone.
Have you ever thought about what motivates YOU to make money? What will you have had to achieve in order to feel “rich”? Are you afraid of being “rich”?
I think too many of us say, “Once I have my amazing condo, BMW, 6-figure job, a closet full of Louis Vuittons and Christian Loubitons, then I will be rich.” Is that really your definition of rich??
If so, that’s really nice. I hope you get that, but what about the intangibles of being “rich”? For example:
-Making career and relationship decisions based on what is best for you, rather than based on money.
-Taking care of your family or future family.
-Having more choices, feeling more confident and providing opportunities for yourself and those around you.
-Being able to travel to see friends or help others.
-Not worrying.
-Freedom.
-Being confident in your self, your abilities and your independence.
-Having money in the bank for a rainy day or for retirement.
-The ability to pursue your hobbies because you can afford to.
-The ability to look at what used to be a “financial emergency” as a “slight inconvenience.”
-The ability to afford the best healthcare if you need it.
I’ve talked to a lot of girls and read a lot of books about women and money. There is a common theme I’ve noticed, which is that women seem afraid of going after wealth because they may be viewed as selfish, bitchy or vain. This is why most women will not talk about money. They are afraid of it and how they will be perceived if they do. Why not start thinking of being rich in terms of how you can help those around you by helping yourself first?
Being “rich” may have nothing to do with money. It has to do with making a better life via more opportunities, more freedom and more confidence.
As you go into yet another work week (which you may be dreading) I encourage you to think about what non-material things you are working toward with the money you are making. I think you might find the intangibles even more exciting than a new pair of Jimmy Choos.
And of course, please share your thoughts about why you want to be rich here too! I’m really curious.
