Q. Dear Ruchi, I’ve made some great strides with my finances this year, though I’m still struggling with spending money in social situations. I often find myself going over budget when I’m out with others. My friends always talk about being broke and operate from a place of scarcity, yet somehow we end up overspending. It leaves me feeling stressed and anxious and I never know what to expect. I want to enjoy time with my friends without compromising my financial goals. Do you have any advice on how I can balance this better?
A. You are certainly not alone on this one! Many people unintentionally overlook one key factor that can significantly impact their financial mindset: the company they keep. The energy and attitudes of those we spend the most time with can shape how we think about wealth, abundance, and financial growth. Take a moment to reflect on the people you engage with regularly. Are they living prosperously, or do they often complain about financial struggles? Do they come from a place of lack, or do they inspire you with their abundance mindset? The answers to these questions may just reveal how your circle can affect your relationship with money.
For example, friends who dwell on scarcity and financial stress can unintentionally project their fears and limitations onto you. While spending time with individuals who celebrate their financial achievements, prioritize growth, and embrace a positive outlook can empower you to shift your own mindset! It may be time to take action and begin building a supportive network that aligns with your most prosperous life. This will require taking a moment to look inward.
Here are some steps to consider when taking a deeper look…
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Assess Your Social Spending Habits: Take note of how your social interactions influence your spending. Identify situations where you tend to overspend and explore why these patterns occur.
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Set Clear Financial Boundaries: Establish personal boundaries for your spending. This might include deciding in advance how much you’re willing to spend on outings or opting for budget-friendly activities. Practice saying “no” confidently – it’s okay!
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Sharpen Your Money Mindset: Hone in on your thoughts. How are you talking to yourself about money? What kind of feelings arise and how can you reframe them? Consider how you can shift your perspective.
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Expand Your Circle with Financially Aligned Friends: Surround yourself with people who respect your financial boundaries and share similar financial values. This might involve seeking out new friendships or deepening connections with those who already align with your intentions.
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Communicate Your Financial Goals: Be open with your friends about your financial goals. This can help set expectations and reduce any awkwardness around money matters, making it easier to stick to your budget.
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Find a “Prosperity Partner”: Confide in someone who shares an open mindset. This person can offer support, encouragement, and accountability as you both work towards a healthier financial future.
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Prioritize Experiences Over Spending: Focus on the quality of your social interactions rather than the amount of money spent. Suggest activities that emphasize connection rather than consumption.
As always, remember that your financial journey is not just about numbers; it’s also about the relationships you build along the way. Surrounding yourself with positive influences can make a world of difference in how you perceive and achieve prosperity. Choose your circle wisely, and watch how your mindset—and ultimately, your finances—transform for the better. The Watch Her Prosper team is always here to help.
Here’s to your prosperity!
Ruchi
