Jul 24

I Can’t Afford It!

Is that true?  Is it absolutely impossible for you to find a way to afford what you want?  Step back from the easy answer and dig a little deeper.  Below are some alternatives to consider:

Own your truth – Often money is an easy scapegoat because most people on the receiving end of the excuse won’t push the subject.  We are taught from a young age not to talk about finances so it allows us to politely shut people down without further explanation.   The truth is most often “I can’t afford it” is typically more about priority and effort than about finances.  It’s important to recognize and own the difference.

Change in language – Our truth about affordability lies in our mindset and language around it.  For example, instead of “I can’t afford it” consider “Although I may not have the available finances now, I am confident I can find a way.”  Clients often ask, aren’t I simply lying to myself if I say that?  It’s important to use language you believe with the understanding our brain has two jobs – to answer our questions and prove us right.  A 2mm shift in language will allow you to become instantly more resourceful and open to find ways to improve your financial situation.

I’m not worth it – Affordability is sometimes a reflection of self-value.  The idea of changing the language around the subject won’t help because the real issue is much deeper—you don’t believe you deserve it.  I work with a client who is also a mother, and she always manages to come up with $100 per sport, per child, every season to pay for their athletics but isn’t able to find $100 to get herself a massage.  Asking “what will it take for me to be worth the investment” will help you begin to uncover some limiting beliefs you may have around your own value.

Past success – What can you do to change your thinking about affordability?  When our financial situation is tight, our mindset is based on where we are right now instead of what we are capable of achieving.   Shift your thinking by remembering a time in the past when you thought you couldn’t afford something but found a way to make it happen.  Most people can easily recall a success from their youth when they were relentless and determined.  If you can’t think of a financial situation, think of any time when you told something “wasn’t possible” or “you can’t” and yet you found a way.  Stacking your successes will help build your confidence and get you on the path to affording whatever it is you dream.

Laura Treonze, serves as Chief Life Strategist with LMT Consulting, which helps executives and teams create massive success through self-awareness. Her life-changing approach has transformed individuals and families and has redefined the way non-profits and corporations “do” business.