ADHD Money Talk Blog

You Are What You Read: The Power of Knowledge and Mindset in Finances

Written by David DeWitt, CFP® | Mar 8, 2024 1:00:00 PM

Money is a necessity - from putting food on the table to pursuing our dreams, financial stability underpins our ability to thrive and grow. With the vast amount of resources and information available at our fingertips, we should theoretically be perfectly set up for a bright future, yet many of us still find ourselves adrift in a sea of financial uncertainty, unsure of which direction to take.

 
 

Have you ever stopped to consider the profound impact of what you consume, not just in terms of food, but also in terms of knowledge? Just as the food we eat shapes our bodies, the information we absorb shapes our minds and ultimately influences our actions and decisions. The concept of “you are what you eat” can be applied to many situations - when it comes to finances, a more appropriate analogy would be “you are what you read”. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by financial chaos, impulsive spending, or the burden of debt, perhaps it's time to rethink the sources of your knowledge.

Central to this idea is the notion that education is the key to dismantling the barriers to wealth. By understanding how money works and learning to invest in assets that generate passive income, individuals can break free from the cycle of paycheck-to-paycheck living. At its core, the message is clear: wealth is not inherently evil, but rather a tool that can be used to create positive change in the world. By reframing our beliefs about money and embracing a mindset of abundance, we can unlock the door to a brighter financial future for ourselves and those around us.

So how do we unlock this new mindset and set ourselves up for success?

How to Start Growing our Financial Knowledge

Books can be a great starting point to building good habits and progressing your financial understanding. A few great examples include:

Rich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki
Why the Stock Market Goes Up by Brian Feroldi
Atomic Habits by James Clear
Money Mammoth by Brad Klontz
The Millionaire Next Door by Robert Stanley
Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill
The Automatic Millionaire by David Bach
Broke Millennial by Erin Lowry
Clever Girl Finance by Bola Sokunbi

 

But education is just the beginning. The true catalyst for change lies in the application of knowledge and the cultivation of a proactive mindset. Recognizing that the biggest asset we possess is our brain, it’s our job to harness its potential through diligent effort and intentional action.

For those grappling with ADHD, the journey toward financial freedom may present unique challenges. However, rather than viewing these challenges as insurmountable obstacles, they can be seen as opportunities for growth and innovation. By understanding the nuances of ADHD and leveraging individual strengths, individuals can develop personalized strategies for managing finances effectively.

Ultimately, the journey toward financial freedom is not a solitary endeavor but a collaborative effort. In addition to personal education, seeking support from professionals and surrounding oneself with a supportive community can provide invaluable guidance and encouragement along the way.

Committing to Our Financial Future

Transforming your financial future begins with a commitment to lifelong learning, proactive decision-making, and a positive mindset. By investing in your education, embracing challenges as opportunities, and cultivating a mindset of abundance, you can pave the way toward a brighter and more prosperous future. Remember to nourish your mind with valuable insights, take decisive action, and stay committed to your goals. The path to financial freedom may be challenging, but with determination and perseverance, success is within your reach