The place of discipline in becoming financially literate cannot be overemphasized. If money is available, opportunities to spend it on becomes available. I am not just talking about unjust reasons but also for justifiable reasons. If one doesn’t establish discipline first, becoming financially literate becomes almost impossible.
Let me explain things further. You need discipline for whatever prevents you from utilizing your means for your needs and also setting aside a seed to multiply your wealth, whether it is justifiable or not. This means that discipline cuts across all you use money for, whether it is for giving or buying that luxurious item your heart desires or even investing. Everything must be balanced. I once shared on this platform of a woman who went into debt worth millions of naira, part of which was constituted by her habit of emotional giving. She would want to salvage any situation by aiding with money. She later learnt the consequences her actions. As much as giving is very good, not balancing it is detrimental. Likewise, your investing, as much as it is good to plan for long term, not meeting up with short term needs is also detrimental.
What’s the way out? Budget! Your income should be spent on a budget, advisably by percentages. This helps you put a balance on your spending. There should be a percentage for giving, investment, upkeep, shopping etc. and definitely for miscellaneous (in case of emergencies, so you wouldn’t choke yourself out). With a budget in place, each category is allotted a percentage. Once that allotment is exhausted, that’s all. You don’t keep falling for every opportunity that comes your way. However, when exceptional cases come up and you need to reschedule your allotment, you can use your discretion.
Another view of discipline I’ll like to discuss is discipline of our emotions. One, our states of finances have a direct impact on our emotions. That’s why it’s so easy to become immediately happy when a bank alert comes into your phone and then when your finances starts steeping low, worry, sadness and depression steps in. One high cause of depression is money issues which are mostly related to debt. Another thing to note is that, this automatically affects our state of health. I have heard stories of people with deteriorating health conditions resulting from toxic emotions that money has a relationship with money. Therefore, I can only advise that for your prosperity in wealth and health, it’s important to take control of your emotions and limit the effects that you state of finances should have on you. Don’t worry; be happy (lol!).
It’s when your mind is free from worry and depression that you can think well and devise a plan to improve your finances.
Discipline your spending habits; discipline your emotions!
We believe in you!
To your financial independence and freedom
