My wife and I frequently talk about the state of our countries economic condition. As a financial coach, I am privy to the stories that break your heart as well as make you wonder how much some people can take emotionally and physically when they are dealing with overwhelming financial issues. My wife, kids, and I often pray for my clients knowing that we were once in a similar place and understand the stress that mounds of debt and no plan can cause and the pressures that can fuel anxiety.
MSN.com had an article on the physical health problems that debt is causing in America (click here to read article). I am not surprised by these findings, yet I am surprised at how many people are unwilling to take the bull by the horns, build a plan, and break the habit of borrowing.
It is no wonder that people are suffering from stress related illnesses in our culture when we are hammered daily with the images to get more stuff. There is no other culture in the history of the world that is bombarded with more sales and advertisements than our society is today.
It is important to know that poor money management is more than just an issue of lack of knowledge and tools. Poor money management is a spiritual issue, a discipline issue; it is an issue that often can only start to be corrected through repentance and belief that God is on our side and wants us to live in freedom – financial freedom – Financial Victory!
If there is one thing that I have learned from coaching and that is people, when motivated by meaningful and purposeful goals, can accomplish almost anything. Sacrifice becomes a welcomed friend if there is purpose behind it. Understand why you are making the sacrifices you are making to change your life and you will most likely succeed at your long term goals. This may take prayerful consideration. It may take having to slow down and ponder your life dreams. It may require you to flesh through what you want your future to look like with a spouse or a close friend.
These actions might just lead to better emotional and physical health, too.
