She Strengthens

The Toxic Relationship Between Money and Anxiety

As someone who’s always been diligent about tracking my finances, setting profit goals, and saving for the future, I thought I had a healthy relationship with money. But beneath the surface, I was struggling with a toxic dynamic – one that left me feeling anxious and uncertain.

The Anxiety Cycle

Every time I updated my budget, my mind would start racing with worst-case scenarios. What if I didn’t get paid on time? What if I lost all my clients? What if I drained my savings and couldn’t find a new job? My imagination would run wild, conjuring up catastrophic outcomes that left me breathless with stress. The more I tried to control my finances, the more my anxiety grew.

The Futility of Control

I thought that by doubling down on my “good” money habits, I could alleviate my anxiety. But the opposite happened. I became obsessed with checking my account balances, scouring for ways to cut expenses, and searching for new money-saving tips. Even hitting my biggest income goal didn’t bring me peace of mind. My anxiety continued to spin out of control, urging me to save more, scrimp more, and cut back even further.

The Need for Balance

I realized that my “good” money habits had become a source of stress, rather than relief. I needed to find a balance between being responsible with my finances and not letting anxiety consume me. I started setting limits on my budgeting, allowing myself small indulgences, and focusing on the things that truly brought me joy.

Grounding in Reality

I learned that true security doesn’t come from a savings balance, but from living in the present moment. It’s about appreciating the little things – a good cup of coffee, a laugh with friends, a handwritten letter, or a walk in nature. By focusing on what’s real and tangible, I can break free from the cycle of anxiety and find true peace of mind.

A New Perspective

Money is just a tool, not the end goal. It’s time to reframe our relationship with it and focus on what truly matters. By doing so, we can find freedom from the toxic cycle of anxiety and live a more balanced, fulfilling life.