Our Perceptions of Money
Posted on April 29th, 2009 in Community, Money Madness
Last Sunday, I went to hear the Dalai Lama speak. He talked about how, when we are afflicted by powerful emotions like fear and anger, our perceptions become clouded and distorted. And when perceptions are distorted, we cannot see clearly, we may not discern the truth, and we have difficulty acting wisely.
These are important words for our time. When we are in a state of contraction and paralysis, we can’t see the truth about our options, our opportunities, our actual financial situation. Look at your numbers. Review all your expenses and see what is really true. What can you actually afford? What should you give up? Many of us are engaged in catastrophic thinking which is fueled by listening to the media. But until you actually look at your numbers, you won’t know with any certainty how bad (or not) it is. Looking at the truth will ease your mind (have you noticed that your fear creates situations that are usually far worse than reality?). Look at the truth of your cash flow and your assets and liabilities. Acknowlege your untapped skills and creativity. Then you will have the confidence to shift your perspective and discern opportunities.
Tags: Bay Area, Dali Lama, Perceptions of Money, Spencer Sherman
Yes, such a great place to be with money. I hope that this energy can ripple out for all. Thank You Spencer.
Where did you see him?
Berkeley, CA
There is a lot of talk about emotions, blocks, memories. I am curious are you a therapist? Eliciting these feeling could create challenges for individual that as a financial planner you are not equipped to handle. What do you do when of if you have this challenge?