happiness

Does Money Really Make You Happy?

/ Yvonne / Leave a comment

You’ve probably heard the saying, “Money can’t buy happiness.” But let’s be honest—have you ever seen someone frowning on a jet ski? Or looking miserable while sipping an umbrellaed drink on a beach in Bali?

Now, before we all start maxing out our credit cards in pursuit of bliss, let’s get real. Can money actually make us happy, or is it just a really good illusion?

There is a case for money = happiness.

There’s no denying that money makes life easier. It pays the bills, keeps the lights on, and puts food on the table. And let’s not forget about the joy of buying something without having to nervously check your bank balance first. That’s peace of mind right there!

Studies even show that financial security leads to less stress and more life satisfaction. Having enough money means fewer sleepless nights worrying about car repairs, rent, or surprise medical bills (because somehow, even breathing feels expensive these days).

Also, money can buy experiences—like trips, concerts, and spontaneous weekend getaways. And those experiences tend to bring us lasting happiness, especially when shared with people we love. Research suggests that experiences often create stronger and longer-lasting joy than material possessions. That’s because we adapt to “stuff” quickly, but memories of that amazing vacation or that hilarious night out with friends? Those stick with us.

But there’s also a case where money ≠ happiness

Now, here’s where things get tricky. Once your basic needs are met and you’re comfortable, more money doesn’t necessarily mean more happiness. Think about it: billionaire or not, everyone still has bad days, arguments, and moments of self-doubt (yes, even that influencer with the perfect life on Instagram).

Chasing money as the only source of happiness can lead to stress, burnout, and an endless cycle of “just a little more and then I’ll be happy.” In fact, too much focus on money can backfire. The relentless pursuit of wealth can come at a cost—long work hours, high stress, and less time for family, hobbies, or self-care. There’s a reason why some of the richest people in the world still struggle with loneliness, anxiety, or burnout.

There’s also something called the “hedonic treadmill.” This means that as people earn more, they get used to their new financial status and start wanting even more. That fancy car that once made you ecstatic? Give it a year, and it’s just your regular ride. Meanwhile, your happiness levels return to where they started.

Spoiler alert: that finish line keeps moving.

So, What’s the Answer?

Like most things in life, balance is key. Money can absolutely contribute to happiness, but it’s not a magic happiness button. It gives you freedom and options, but the real joy comes from how you use it. Investing in relationships, health, and meaningful experiences? That’s where the good stuff is.

Instead of just chasing wealth, focus on how you can use your money to improve your well-being. Spend on things that genuinely add value to your life, whether that’s learning a new skill, traveling, or supporting causes that matter to you.

So, the next time someone says, “Money can’t buy happiness,” just smile and say, “Maybe not, but it sure can make life a whole lot more comfortable.” And then treat yourself—just because you can.

#MoneyAndHappiness #FinancialFreedom #MindsetMatters #WealthWisely #HappinessOverStuff #BalanceIsKey #SmartSpending #LifeLessons #PersonalFinance #EnjoyTheJourney

What Are You Waiting For

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Time seems to move with an accelerating pace as we grow older. When we were children, days felt endless, summers stretched on and on, and the wait for birthdays and holidays seemed to last forever. However, as adults, weeks blur into months, and years pass with the thought of how did it go so fast. This phenomenon is acknowledged by psychologists and neuroscientists alike. Our perception of time speeds up as we age, making it ever more crucial to seize each moment and live a life we truly love.

The perception that time speeds up as we grow older can be attributed to several factors. One significant reason is the proportional theory: each passing year represents a smaller fraction of our life. For a ten-year-old, one year is 10% of their life, but for a fifty-year-old, it is only 2%. This mathematical shrinking of each year’s relative size contributes to the feeling that time accelerates.

Additionally, routine and repetition play a role. When we experience new things, our brains record these memories more vividly. Novelty stretches our perception of time. Conversely, when life becomes routine, the days can seem to fly by unnoticed. This is why childhood, filled with first-time experiences, feels so rich and extensive in hindsight.

Given the fleeting nature of time, living a life aligned with our passions and values is so important. It’s easy to get caught up in societal expectations, career demands, and daily routines, losing sight of what truly brings us joy and fulfillment. However, the brevity of life should serve as a reminder to prioritize what matters most.

**Pursuing Passion:** Doing what we love infuses our lives with energy and enthusiasm. Whether it’s a career that excites us, hobbies that engage our creativity, or causes we care deeply about, passion fuels a sense of purpose and satisfaction. It turns mundane moments into meaningful experiences, making time feel well spent rather than wasted.

**Building Relationships:** Time shared with loved ones is invaluable. Deep connections with family, friends, and partners provide emotional support, joy, and a sense of belonging. Investing time in these relationships enriches our lives and creates lasting memories.

**Financial Security:** Financial stability is a cornerstone of living a life you love. Money can’t buy happiness, but financial security can reduce stress and provide the freedom to pursue passions and enjoy life’s moments. Getting finances in order involves:

– **Budgeting:** Creating and adhering to a budget helps manage expenses and ensure money is spent in alignment with priorities.

– **Saving:** Building an emergency fund and saving for future goals provides a financial cushion and peace of mind.

– **Investing:** Making informed investment choices can grow wealth over time, supporting long-term financial goals.

– **Debt Management:** Reducing and managing debt is crucial for financial health, freeing up resources for other life-enhancing activities.

– **Financial Planning:** Planning for major life events, such as retirement, education, and homeownership, ensures preparedness and reduces future financial stress.

**Spirituality:** Embracing a spiritual practice can provide a profound sense of purpose and connection. Whether through religious faith, meditation, or a personal sense of connection to the universe, spirituality can offer comfort, guidance, and a deeper understanding of life’s mysteries. It can help us find meaning in our experiences and cultivate inner peace, gratitude, and compassion.

**Mindfulness and Presence:** Being fully present in each moment can slow our perception of time. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation, can help us appreciate the now and reduce the feeling that life is rushing past us. By focusing on the present, we can savor the details and find deeper joy in everyday experiences.

**Personal Growth:** Continuously learning and growing keeps life interesting and fulfilling. Embracing new challenges, acquiring new skills, and expanding our horizons help us maintain a sense of progression and accomplishment, counteracting the stagnation that can make time feel like it’s slipping away unnoticed.

### Creating a Life You Love

To live a life we love, intentionality is key. Here are some steps to guide us:

1. **Identify Your Values:** Reflect on what truly matters to you. What do you value most in life? Is it freedom, creativity, family, adventure, or something else? Understanding your core values can guide your decisions and actions.

2. **Set Goals Aligned with Your Passions:** Once you know your values, set goals that align with them. Break these goals into manageable steps and pursue them with dedication.

3. **Simplify and Prioritize:** Life is full of distractions and obligations. Simplify where possible and prioritize activities and commitments that bring you closer to your passions and values.

4. **Embrace Change:** Don’t be afraid to make changes if your current path doesn’t align with your desired life. It’s never too late to pursue a new direction that brings you joy and fulfillment.

5. **Practice Gratitude:** Regularly take time to appreciate what you have. Gratitude can enhance your overall happiness and help you focus on the positives in your life.

6. **Get Your Finances in Order:** Ensure your financial health to provide stability and the freedom to pursue what you love. This includes budgeting, saving, investing wisely, managing debt, and planning for the future.

The passing of time is a universal experience that can either dishearten or inspire us. By recognizing the fleeting nature of our days, we can choose to live more intentionally, embracing our passions, nurturing our relationships, managing our finances, and staying present in the moment. A life we love is not a distant dream but a conscious creation, crafted through our daily choices and attitudes. In the end, the best way to slow down the rush of time is to fill it with love, purpose, and joy.

“Why” Matters

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Do you ever feel like you’re just going through the motions?

It’s not only unfulfilling but it can be exhausting. It can leave you feeling dissatisfied and even disgruntled until you find yourself wondering why you’re doing what you’re doing.

A few years ago I had a great career. I was making comfortable money and had fun with my co-workers. But at the end of the day, it was just a paycheck.

I always felt like there was something missing and then I realized that even though I was good at what I did, there was no fulfillment for me in what I did for a living.

When covid hit, a lot of people in my industry were laid off and it forced me to reevaluate what I was doing with my life. After working with a career coach to help me figure out what I wanted to do when I grew up I found that I was happiest when I was helping other people succeed. And that’s when I found my why and became a coach.

Understanding your personal motivations—your “why”—is so crucial. Your “why” is your deep-seated reason that drives your actions, decisions, and overall life direction. It’s the motivation behind WHAT you do and HOW you do it.

At its most basic, knowing your why gives you a sense of purpose. It acts like a compass, guiding you through life’s challenges and helping you stay focused on what matters. When you have a clear why, it becomes easier to make decisions that align with your long-term goals, rather than being swayed by external pressures or fleeting trends.

People often chase external markers of success, like money, status, or approval, only to find that these don’t bring lasting happiness. True fulfillment comes from living a life aligned with your values and passions. When you are connected to your why, your actions are more likely to be in harmony with who you are at your core. This alignment leads to a deeper sense of satisfaction and joy.

Life is filled with setbacks and obstacles, but a strong sense of purpose can help you navigate these difficulties. It gives you the strength to persevere, as you are not just working towards short-term achievements but are driven by a deeper, more meaningful cause. Its easy to feel discouraged and want to give up. But, having a strong why will give you the motivation that keeps you going.

In the professional realm, having a clear why can enhance productivity and job satisfaction. Employees who understand how their work contributes to a larger purpose are often more engaged and motivated. This not only leads to higher performance but also to a more cohesive and inspired workplace culture.

Finding your why also plays an important role in building authentic relationships. When you are clear about your motivations and goals, you attract like-minded individuals who share similar values. This alignment creates deeper, more meaningful connections, both personally and professionally.

To discover your why, introspection is key. Reflect on your passions, strengths, and the experiences that have shaped you. Consider what activities make you lose track of time and what issues you feel passionately about. Sometimes, it helps to look at pivotal moments in your life and identify common themes that resonate deeply with you.

Finding your why allows you to make a meaningful impact on the world. Whether through your career, relationships, or community involvement, a clear sense of purpose drives you to contribute positively to society. It encourages you to think beyond personal gain and consider how your actions affect others. This broader perspective not only enhances your legacy but also inspires those around you to seek and fulfill their own purpose.

It is a transformative process that requires introspection and self-awareness. It involves digging deep to uncover what truly matters to you and aligning your actions with that purpose. While it may take time and effort, the rewards are profound. Clarity, motivation, fulfillment, and impact are just a few of the benefits that come from knowing your why. Ultimately, it is the foundation of a meaningful and purpose-driven life.

Balancing Ambition with Satisfaction

/ Yvonne / Leave a comment

For the past few weeks, I’ve been talking about making changes in your life and creating new habits. So what I’m going to talk about today may seem contradictory, but hear me out. Today we’re going to talk about being content with where you are.

The pursuit of our dreams often feels like a relentless journey and the desire for success often takes center stage. We’re constantly bombarded with messages telling us to hustle harder, reach higher, and never settle for anything less than our grandest aspirations. Ambition is celebrated, and rightly so, because it moves us forward and fuels our growth. But in working towards our desired life, there’s also great wisdom in learning to find contentment along the way.

I’ve learned that contentment isn’t about complacency or settling for less; it’s about finding peace and gratitude in the present moment while actively working toward future goals.

Contentment isn’t about denying our desires or ambitions; rather, it’s about embracing them while maintaining a sense of inner peace and gratitude. It’s about finding joy in the small victories and appreciating the abundance that already exists in our lives.

Working towards our goals and dreams is undoubtedly important. It gives us direction, purpose, and a sense of fulfillment as we make moves to become the best versions of ourselves. However, it’s crucial to recognize that the journey is just as significant as the destination. Too often, we become fixated on what lies ahead, overlooking the beauty and opportunities that surround us in the here and now.

As a life coach, I often encourage my clients to practice mindfulness and gratitude as a means of nurturing contentment. By taking the time to pause, reflect, and acknowledge the blessings in our lives, we can shift our focus from what we lack to what we have. This shift in perspective not only enhances our overall sense of well-being but also fuels our motivation to pursue our goals with renewed energy and optimism.

Embracing contentment doesn’t mean that we become lazy or stagnant in our personal growth. On the contrary, it provides a solid foundation from where we can courageously pursue our goals. When we approach life from a place of contentment, we’re less likely to be consumed by stress, anxiety, or self-doubt. Instead, we’re empowered to take calculated risks, step out of our comfort zones, and embrace the unknown with confidence and resilience.

One of the keys to finding contentment amid the hustle and bustle of everyday life is to find a sense of balance. This means prioritizing self-care, setting boundaries, and honoring our own needs and values. When we strike a harmonious balance between work, relationships, and personal well-being, we create space for contentment to grow.

Furthermore, it’s important to remember that the journey toward our ideal life is rarely linear. There will be setbacks, challenges, and moments of doubt along the way. However, it’s during these times of adversity that our commitment to contentment truly shines. By embracing a mindset of resilience and perseverance, we can navigate through life’s ups and downs with grace and fortitude. Life is a series of experiences, and each step along the way offers opportunities for growth, learning, and self-discovery.

I believe that contentment is not only achievable but essential on the journey toward a life we love. By embracing gratitude, mindfulness, and balance, we can develop a deep sense of inner peace and fulfillment, even as we work tirelessly to achieve our dreams. As you start on your own personal journey, remember to cherish the present moment, celebrate your progress, and trust in the wisdom of embracing contentment along the way.

In essence, it’s about pursuing your goals with passion and dedication while savoring the present moment and finding joy in the journey. By practicing gratitude, mindfulness, and self-compassion, you can navigate life’s challenges with resilience and grace, ultimately finding true fulfillment. So, as you strive for your dreams, remember to cherish the present moment, that is where true contentment resides.

Here are some insights on how to cultivate contentment as you pursue your dreams:

1. **Practice Gratitude**: Gratitude is a powerful antidote to feelings of dissatisfaction and restlessness. Take time each day to reflect on the things you’re grateful for, whether it’s the support of loved ones, the beauty of nature, your health, relationships, or the opportunities that come your way. Practicing a mindset of gratitude can shift your focus from what you lack to what you have, fostering a sense of contentment and abundance.

2. **Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection**: It’s easy to fall into the trap of constantly striving for perfection, but the truth is that perfection is an illusion. Instead of fixating on achieving flawless outcomes, focus on making progress towards your goals. Celebrate even the smallest victories along the way, acknowledging the effort and dedication you’ve put in. Accept that life is inherently imperfect, and that’s okay. Embrace the ups and downs, knowing that growth often comes from adversity. Learn to let go of the need for perfection and embrace the beauty of imperfection in yourself and in life’s journey.

3. **Practice Mindfulness**: Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present in the moment, without judgment or distraction. Incorporating mindfulness into your daily life can help you appreciate the richness of each experience, whether it’s savoring a meal, enjoying a conversation, or simply breathing deeply. Engage fully in whatever you’re doing, whether it’s work, spending time with loved ones, or pursuing hobbies. By using mindfulness, you can quiet the constant chatter of your mind and find peace in the present moment.

4. **Set Realistic Expectations**: Ambition is essential for growth, but it’s important to set realistic expectations for yourself. Recognize that progress takes time and that setbacks are a natural part of the journey. Avoid comparing yourself to others, as everyone’s path is unique. Instead, focus on your own strengths and abilities, setting goals that challenge you without overwhelming you. By setting realistic expectations, you can avoid feelings of frustration and disappointment, allowing yourself to find contentment in your efforts.

5. **Nurture Self-Compassion**: Self-compassion is the practice of treating yourself with kindness and understanding, especially in times of difficulty or failure. Instead of harsh self-criticism, cultivate a compassionate attitude towards yourself, recognizing that you’re doing the best you can with the resources you have. Treat yourself with the same kindness and empathy you would offer to a friend facing similar challenges. By nurturing self-compassion, you can cultivate a sense of inner peace and contentment, even in the face of adversity.

6. **Find Joy in the Journey**: Ultimately, true contentment comes from finding joy in the journey itself, rather than fixating solely on the destination. Embrace the ups and downs, the successes, and failures, knowing that each experience contributes to your growth and development. Find pleasure in the process of learning, growing, and becoming the best version of yourself. Instead of viewing work as a means to an end, find joy in the process. Embrace the challenges and learning opportunities that come with pursuing your goals. Focus on the aspects of your work that bring you fulfillment and satisfaction, whether it’s creativity, problem-solving, or helping others. By finding joy in the journey, you can live a more fulfilling and contented life, regardless of where you are on the path to your dreams.

7.**Define Your Own Success**: Society often equates success with external markers such as wealth, status, or achievements, it’s easy to fall into the trap of perpetual discontentment. Instead, consider what truly matters to you. Is it meaningful connections with loved ones, personal growth, or making a positive impact on the world? By aligning your goals with your values, you can find fulfillment in the pursuit of your aspirations, rather than solely in their attainment.

Give Yourself Permission to Change Your Life

/ Yvonne / 1 Comment

In life, change is the only constant. It’s the thread that brings together every moment, connecting our past, present, and future. Yet, many of us often find ourselves resisting change, clinging to familiar routines and paths even when they no longer bring us joy or fulfillment. But what if we gave ourselves permission to embrace change wholeheartedly? What if we acknowledged that it’s okay to pivot, to evolve, and to create a life that we align with? The truth is, it’s more than okay—it’s necessary.

Change can be intimidating. It often requires stepping into the unknown, leaving behind the safety of what we know for uncertainty. However, within that change lies the potential for growth, discovery, and transformation.

But embracing change isn’t just about adapting to external circumstances; it’s about actively participating in the creation of your own future. It’s about recognizing that you possess the power to shape your reality and create your existence into a life you want to live. But to do so requires a radical act of self-permission—a declaration to yourself that you are worthy of living a life that resonates with your true desires and aspirations.

So HOW do you give yourself permission to make these changes?

First, acknowledge that change is natural. Just as the seasons transition from one to another, so does life. Embrace it, knowing that every ending brings a new beginning and every setback is an opportunity for growth.

Next, let go of the limiting beliefs and expectations that have confined you to a stagnant existence.

You need to have self-compassion and forgiveness. Understand that making mistakes and taking wrong turns are normal for everyone. Give yourself the grace to learn from these experiences and evolve into a wiser, more resilient version of yourself.

Try to surround yourself with a supportive community of kindred spirits who uplift and inspire you. Seek out mentors and role models who have walked the path of changing their lives and can offer guidance along the way. Remember, you are not alone in this journey; there are countless people on the same path.

Above all, trust your intuition. Even if you feel like you don’t know yourself anymore and aren’t sure what you want in life, deep within you, the answers are there. Quiet the noise of doubt and insecurity, and listen closely to what stirs you. Be honest with yourself and dare to dream!

Here are a few reasons WHY it’s not only okay but essential to give yourself permission to create a life you love:

1. **Authenticity breeds happiness**: Living a life that is true to yourself is key to finding happiness and fulfillment. When you allow yourself to pursue your passions, follow your intuition, and honor your values, you create a life that is authentic to who you are. Authenticity brings a sense of alignment and purpose, which can significantly enhance your overall well-being.

2. **You deserve it**: You deserve to live a life that brings you joy, satisfaction, and meaning. You deserve to wake up every morning feeling excited about the day ahead, to pursue your dreams with passion and determination. By giving yourself permission to create a life you love, you are affirming your worthiness to experience happiness and fulfillment.

3. **Growth happens outside your comfort zone**: Change often requires stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing new experiences and challenges. While this can be intimidating, it is also where growth thrives. When you challenge yourself and push beyond the boundaries of what feels familiar, you open yourself up to new possibilities and opportunities for personal and professional development.

4. **Life is too short to settle**: Life is fleeting, and none of us know how much time we have on this earth. Therefore, settling for a life that doesn’t truly fulfill you is a disservice to yourself. Instead of settling for mediocrity, strive for excellence. Pursue your passions relentlessly, and don’t be afraid to course-correct along the way if necessary.

5. **You have the power to create change**: It’s easy to feel powerless in the face of life’s challenges and uncertainties. However, it’s essential to remember that you have the power to shape your own destiny. You have the ability to make choices that align with your desires and aspirations, and you have the capacity to create positive change in your life. By giving yourself permission to take control of your own narrative, you empower yourself to design a life that brings you joy and fulfillment.

Celebrate the moments of triumph, no matter how small, and the lessons learned in moments of challenge. And most importantly, celebrate the incredible journey of becoming the fullest expression of yourself. In the end, life is too short to settle for anything less than extraordinary. So give yourself permission to embrace change, to pursue your passions, and to create a life that fills you with joy, purpose, and fulfillment.

Grant yourself permission to create a life you love. Embracing change and giving yourself permission do to that isn’t always easy, but it is undoubtedly worth it. It requires courage, self-awareness, and a willingness to let go of the past that no longer serves you. So, take a deep breath and take that first step toward the life you’ve always dreamed of. After all, you deserve nothing less than the limitless abundance that awaits you on the other side of fear.

Finding Balance in a Chaotic World

/ Yvonne / Leave a comment

As the holiday season approaches, it’s all too common to find ourselves caught up in the intricate web of our own little worlds. The hustle and bustle of this time of year can easily cause stress, distraction, and a sense of overwhelming busyness. I am not exempt from getting trapped in the whirlwind of seasonal demands, and I’m sure a lot of you can relate.

The holiday season is meant to be a time of joy, reflection, and connection, yet it often transforms into a frantic race against the clock. As the to-do lists pile up, it becomes increasingly challenging to maintain a sense of balance. The pressure to meet societal expectations, coupled with personal needs, can create a perfect storm of stress and distraction.

I confess that I have fallen victim to the trap of being consumed by it all this time of year. The constant demands of work, social and family obligations, and the ever-growing checklist of tasks to accomplish can make it difficult to pause and appreciate the true essence of the season. It becomes easy to lose sight of what truly matters in the whirlwind of chaos.

Knowing all the things we should do, but find ourselves unable to due to circumstances beyond our control, only adds another layer to the mix. Limited time, financial constraints, or unforeseen challenges can create a sense of helplessness, making it even more challenging to strike a balance between what we want to achieve and what is realistically possible.

So, how do we navigate this intricate balance of responsibilities and desires without succumbing to the stress and distractions that threaten to pull us under?

Firstly, it’s crucial to acknowledge our own limitations. We are only human, and it’s okay to recognize that we can’t do it all. Setting realistic expectations for ourselves and others allows us to prioritize and focus on what truly matters.

Next, finding moments of mindfulness within the chaos can be a powerful remedy. Taking a few minutes each day to step back, breathe, and reflect can provide clarity and a renewed sense of purpose. Whether it’s through meditation, a brief walk, counted breathing, or simply sitting in quietness, these moments of stillness can help ground us in the present.

Additionally, embracing a sense of gratitude can shift our perspective. Instead of dwelling on what we can’t do, let’s focus on what we can. Expressing thankfulness for the small joys and accomplishments, no matter how minor, can create a positive mindset that helps us more easily conquer the challenges we face.

Ultimately, the holiday season is a time to celebrate the spirit of giving, compassion, and connection. By finding a balance between our aspirations and the reality of our circumstances, we can navigate this season with a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Let’s not allow the rush of our own little worlds to obscure the beauty of the season and the joy that comes from being present in the moment.