How to Make the Most of Your Money in the New Year — ft. Morgan Housel
Dec 19, 2024
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Morgan Housel, a New York Times bestselling author and partner at Collaborative Fund, joins to discuss navigating financial stress during the holidays. He shares insights on changing your mindset about money in the new year, the significance of bonuses, and what it means to spend wisely. Housel emphasizes the connection between happiness and genuine relationships over material wealth and critiques the reliance on New Year's resolutions, advocating for consistent financial habits that prioritize well-being.
The holiday season induces financial stress due to societal pressures on gift-giving, often overshadowing the importance of meaningful relationships and experiences.
Shifting your mindset around money involves recognizing the psychological influences of spending, prioritizing genuine connections over material wealth for greater fulfillment.
Deep dives
Financial Stress During the Holidays
The holiday season is a significant source of financial stress for many Americans, with nine out of ten individuals reporting significant anxiety related to expenses. This stress is compounded by societal expectations surrounding gift-giving, where the pressure to find the perfect gift for loved ones often leads to disappointment and financial strain. Unlike holidays such as Thanksgiving, which focus on family and gratitude without monetary expectations, Christmas can turn into an emotional and financial burden. As personal social circles expand, the obligation to give presents increases, resulting in additional stress regarding the financial implications of these gifts.
Cultural Emphasis on Gifting
The cultural emphasis on extravagant gift-giving during holidays can have detrimental effects on personal relationships and mental well-being. Many individuals mistakenly equate the act of giving with expressions of love and appreciation, leading to the belief that monetary gifts will strengthen relationships. However, genuine connection and appreciation often stem from non-material gestures, such as thoughtful conversations or shared experiences, which can leave a more lasting impact than physical gifts. One personal anecdote highlighted was the contrast between expensive presents and heartfelt, creative gestures that reflect true sentiment, illustrating that thoughtfulness often outweighs monetary value.
Financial Habits and Goals for the New Year
As the new year approaches, many individuals set financial resolutions, often aiming to save more money. While setting goals can be a positive motivator, relying on a specific date to change financial habits may not foster lasting change; successful financial management typically comes from consistent practice rather than seasonal motivation. Effective approaches to improving financial habits involve examining underlying motivations and rooting out tendencies that lead to overspending, such as the desire for social approval. This deeper introspection can guide individuals toward genuine happiness and fulfillment that transcends monetary wealth.
The Psychology of Spending
Understanding the psychology behind spending, including the role of envy, jealousy, and social comparisons, is vital for achieving financial well-being. Wealth does not guarantee happiness, as the fulfillment derived from relationships and experiences often overshadows material possessions. Individuals may find greater satisfaction in fostering real connections rather than striving for status through expenditures. By placing more significant value on relationships and experiences while consciously recognizing and managing feelings of envy, people can cultivate a healthier relationship with money and achieve personal happiness.
Morgan Housel, New York Times bestselling author of “The Psychology of Money,” joins the show to break down why the holidays are such a stressful time financially – and how we can all navigate it. He also discusses how to shift your mindset around money in the new year, make the most of bonuses, and determine what “spending well” really means for you.