mindset

What If Your Money Mindset Matters More Than Your Income?

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We often think money is all about numbers: budgets, balances, debt, and credit scores. And sure, those things matter. But I’ll let you in on something that’s not on most spreadsheets: gratitude has a direct impact on your financial life. And it’s bigger than you think.

You might be wondering, What does being thankful have to do with paying off debt or building wealth? The short answer? Everything.

Gratitude calms your spending triggers

When you’re constantly focused on what you don’t have, it’s easy to slip into the “I deserve this” spending spiral. You’re stressed, you’re tired, and suddenly that $70 online cart looks like self-care.

But when you’re grounded in gratitude, your perspective changes. You stop chasing happiness with your wallet because you’re already finding contentment in what you have. You’re not immune to temptation (none of us is), but you’re not ruled by it, either.

Gratitude says: “What I have is enough.”
And that mindset can slow down impulse spending faster than any budgeting app.

Gratitude brings awareness to what matters

When you’re grateful, you start paying attention. You see where your money is going and whether it lines up with your values.

You realize that the $120 a month going to random subscriptions you barely think about could be helping you save for something that truly matters, like your child’s education, your next big trip, or simply being able to breathe easier when bills come around.

Gratitude clears the fog. It reminds you that financial progress isn’t always about having more. It’s about using what you already have with intention.

Gratitude builds a mindset that welcomes abundance

If you’ve ever told yourself, “I’m just bad with money,” or “I’ll never get ahead,” that mindset becomes your ceiling. But gratitude pokes a hole in it.

When you start noticing the good, your ability to earn, your resourcefulness, and your progress start to improve, and you begin to believe that more is possible. That belief changes how you act. You ask for the raise. You start the side hustle. You get serious about your goals.

Gratitude doesn’t just make you feel better, it makes you bolder. And boldness leads to better financial choices.

I once worked with a woman who was drowning in credit card debt. She felt stuck, ashamed, and overwhelmed. But instead of starting with spreadsheets, we started with a simple gratitude practice. Every morning, she wrote down three things she was thankful for, even if it was just her morning coffee, her kids’ laughter, or getting to work on time.

It didn’t fix the debt overnight. But it did change her energy. She stopped spiraling. She stopped beating herself up. And with that clarity, she created a plan. Today, she’s paid off two of her four cards, built a small emergency fund, and told me, “I finally feel proud of myself again.”

That’s the power of gratitude.

How to practice gratitude with your money

You don’t need a journal and a sunrise (although that’s lovely too). Start small:

  • The next time you pay a bill, pause and say, “I’m grateful I can cover this.”
  • When you grocery shop, be thankful you have food and choices.
  • When you review your finances, celebrate progress—even $10 saved is a win.
  • Look back at past financial “mistakes” and instead of shame, thank them for the lessons they taught you.

Money isn’t usually a math problem. It’s an emotional one. Gratitude won’t magically erase debt or double your bank account overnight, but it will change how you approach money. And that change is the starting point for everything else.

Because when you shift your mindset from “not enough” to “I’m already rich in so many ways,” your money starts working with you, not against you.

And it can all start with one small thank-you.

The Power of Mind Over Money

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If you’ve ever thought, “I’ll never get ahead financially” or “I’m just not good with money,” you might be putting up roadblocks where there could be open doors. Your financial future isn’t set in stone—it’s shaped by how you think and what you do. That’s where a growth mindset comes in.

A growth mindset is the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed with effort, learning, and persistence. When applied to finances, it means realizing that financial literacy, smart money habits, and wealth-building strategies aren’t reserved for the lucky few—they’re skills that anyone can learn.

I know it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when facing financial hurdles. I’ve been there!  But a growth mindset helps you see these moments as stepping stones rather than roadblocks. If you’re struggling with debt, saving, or investing, try shifting your perspective. Instead of thinking, “I’m bad at managing money,” ask yourself, “How can I better manage my money?” Every challenge you face is a chance to build stronger financial skills.

We’ve all made financial missteps—whether it’s overspending, missing a payment, or making a risky investment. Instead of beating yourself up, take a step back and look at the lesson in the experience. Successful people don’t avoid mistakes; they learn from them. Each setback is an opportunity to refine your approach and make better decisions moving forward.

One simple word can change your entire financial outlook: yet. If you catch yourself saying, “I don’t understand investing” or “I can’t save money,” add yet to the end of that sentence. It turns a dead-end statement into an open path. Acknowledging that financial success is a journey keeps you motivated and patient with yourself.

It’s tempting to stick with what feels easy, but real financial progress comes from learning and stepping outside your comfort zone. Read books, listen to podcasts, take a financial course, or talk to a coach. The more you expose yourself to new financial concepts, the more confident and capable you’ll become. Knowledge is power—and in this case, it’s the power to take control of your financial future.

A growth mindset isn’t just about tackling big challenges; it’s also about recognizing progress. Did you save an extra $50 this month? That’s a win! Did you finally create a budget? Another win! Acknowledging and celebrating these small victories keeps you motivated and reinforces your belief that financial success is possible.

Changing the way you think about money starts with small steps. Reframe negative thoughts, seek out financial education, surround yourself with people who inspire you, and take consistent action. Whether it’s budgeting, saving, or investing, the key is to keep going.

By creating a growth mindset, you open the door to endless financial possibilities. Your starting point doesn’t define you—your willingness to learn, adapt, and persist does. Shift your mindset, take action, and watch your financial future transform!

Is Imposter Syndrome Hurting Your Finances? Here’s How to Beat It

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Imposter syndrome—the nagging feeling that you’re not as competent or knowledgeable as others think—can creep into every aspect of life, including your finances. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, an employee, or managing your household budget, self-doubt can limit your financial growth and stability.

Imposter syndrome can mess with your money in surprising ways. If you’ve ever thought, I don’t deserve to make that much money or I’m not smart enough to invest, you’re not alone. Let’s talk about how it might be affecting you and, more importantly, how to break free from it.

If you run a business, freelance, or work in a field where you set your own rates, imposter syndrome might be making you lowball yourself. Thoughts like Who am I to charge that much? or What if they realize I’m not that good? can leave you working twice as hard for half the pay.

How to Fix It:

Do the research. Find out what others in your industry charge. Chances are, you’re selling yourself short.
Practice saying your rates confidently. If you don’t believe in your pricing, neither will your clients.

Focus on value, not time. You’re not just selling hours—you’re selling experience, skill, and results.

Think about this: If someone else with less experience is charging more than you, why shouldn’t you?

When was the last time you asked for a raise? If you’re like most people with imposter syndrome, the answer might be never. You may worry that asking for more money will expose you as a fraud or make your boss question your value. Meanwhile, your bills keep rising, but your paycheck stays the same.

How to Fix It:

Track your wins. Keep a list of your achievements, completed projects, and positive feedback.
Know your worth. Check sites like Glassdoor or Salary.com to see what people in your role are making.
Rehearse your ask. Practice with a friend or mentor until it feels natural.

 Your employer expects negotiations. The worst they can say is no—but they might just say yes!

Do you keep all your money in a savings account because investing feels too risky? Maybe you think, I don’t know enough about this, or What if I lose everything? While being cautious is good, avoiding investing altogether can keep you stuck in the paycheck-to-paycheck cycle.

How to Fix It:

Start small. You don’t need thousands to begin—many apps let you start with as little as $10.
Educate yourself. Read books, take courses, and follow financial experts (like me!) to build confidence.
Get guidance. A financial coach can help you create an investment strategy that feels safe and smart.

The best time to start investing was yesterday. The second-best time? Today.

Ever bought something just to look successful? Maybe you splurge on designer bags, fancy dinners, or the latest gadgets—not because you need them, but because deep down, you feel like you should have them to be taken seriously. This “imposter spending” can wreck your budget and keep you in debt.

How to Fix It:

Ask yourself: Why am I buying this? Is it something you truly want or just a way to impress others?
Shift your focus. True confidence comes from financial stability, not expensive things.
Set meaningful goals. Instead of keeping up with appearances, invest in your future.

 Real wealth isn’t about looking rich—it’s about financial freedom.

Have a great business idea but keep talking yourself out of it? Imposter syndrome can make you think, I’m not an expert or What if I fail? Meanwhile, others with less experience and confidence are out there making money.

How to Fix It:

Start before you’re ready. No one feels 100% prepared—successful people take the leap anyway.
Take small steps. You don’t have to go all in at once—start your side hustle part-time.
Surround yourself with support. Find a mentor, join a business group, or connect with others who’ve been where you are.

 The only way to fail is to never start.

Imposter syndrome can limit your financial success, but the good news is that it’s a mindset—one that you can change. By recognizing its impact and taking intentional steps to overcome it, you can build financial confidence and success. When you start believing in your worth, you’ll start earning, saving, and investing in a way that reflects it.

You deserve financial success. Don’t let self-doubt keep you from it.

Want help overcoming money blocks and building financial confidence? Let’s chat! Book a free insight session today.

Transform Your Finances from the Inside Out

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Picture this: your bank account isn’t stressing you out, you know exactly where your money is going, and you feel confident about your financial future. If this seems like a dream, you’re not alone. Many people chase financial stability, but real transformation is elusive without changing their inner beliefs and habits.

Here’s the truth: lasting financial change doesn’t start with a spreadsheet; it starts with you.

Your financial situation is more than just numbers; it’s a reflection of your mindset, habits, and choices. Many people dream of financial freedom but struggle to achieve it. Often, this is because they focus solely on financial strategies without addressing the personal growth that enables sustainable change. That’s why personal growth is essential to transforming your financial situation and how you can use it to create lasting improvements.

When it comes to finances, people often jump straight into budgeting or investing, but these efforts often fall flat. Why? Because the real issue often isn’t money itself but rather the beliefs and habits you bring to your financial life.

Personal growth is the process of improving your mindset, building better habits, and developing a clear sense of purpose. By focusing on your own growth, you become someone who naturally makes better financial decisions, who thinks long-term, and who has the resilience to bounce back from setbacks.

You’ll actively develop qualities like discipline, self-awareness, and emotional intelligence—all of which impact how you handle your money. With a growth mindset, you become more equipped to identify, understand, and overcome the mental and emotional barriers that have kept you from financial success.

When you grow, your finances start to grow with you.

Our beliefs about money shape how we use it. Maybe you believe money is hard to get, or that you’re not good with finances. These beliefs often lead to habits that work against financial success.

Personal growth often begins with a mindset shift, especially when it comes to money. People with a scarcity mindset tend to view money as something finite and fear-driven, often leading to poor financial choices. They may save excessively out of fear or splurge as a way to feel temporarily in control. In contrast, a growth-oriented or abundance mindset sees money as a tool that can be managed and grown through informed decisions and calculated risks.

Imagine if you could flip the script and see money as something within your control, something that responds to the choices you make. Personal growth teaches you to challenge these limiting beliefs and replace them with empowering ones. By working on your mindset, you unlock the door to a whole new way of handling money—one that’s driven by intention, confidence, and hope.

Ask yourself these questions:

– Do you believe you’re capable of financial success?

– Are you willing to invest time in learning about finances?

– Do you have a long-term vision for your financial health?

Imagine looking at your finances with the same sense of purpose you’d bring to your health, relationships, or career. Real personal growth involves building habits that support your goals, and it’s these habits that lead to lasting change. Whether it’s consistently saving, saying no to impulse buys, or setting aside time each month to look over your budget, small habits can transform your financial future.

With personal growth, you’ll find yourself more focused on long-term gains rather than momentary pleasures. The patience, consistency, and discipline you develop will serve as a strong foundation for financial growth. With every wise choice, you move closer to financial security and peace of mind.

Many of us shy away from financial education because it seems intimidating. Yet, financial literacy is power—it’s the difference between letting money control you and taking charge of your own finances. Think of learning about money as a key part of your personal development. Every bit of knowledge you gain, every new financial tool you master, is a step closer to the life you want.

Start small. Read articles, listen to finance podcasts, and consider hiring a coach. Bit by bit, as your financial knowledge grows, so does your confidence and your ability to make informed decisions. Soon, those “complicated” financial concepts become tools you use to your advantage, and each step brings you closer to the financial freedom you deserve.

If there’s one thing we know about money, it’s that there will be ups and downs. From market dips to unexpected expenses, life will throw financial challenges your way. But here’s the kicker: the more you work on personal growth, the more resilient you become in the face of these setbacks.

With resilience and confidence, you stop fearing financial setbacks, and instead, start looking for opportunities. You’ll feel empowered to ask for that raise, take that new job, or invest in that business idea. Your personal growth gives you the tools to face any financial challenge head-on, and each step builds your financial courage.

Think about what drives you. If you’re honest, it’s probably not just about having more money. Maybe it’s about security, freedom, or the ability to care for loved ones. Personal growth helps you find clarity on what truly matters to you, allowing you to set goals that feel personal and motivating.

When your goals are aligned with your values, financial decisions become easier to make, and they bring more satisfaction when you achieve them. Saving for a family trip, investing in a dream home, or building an emergency fund for peace of mind—all these become more meaningful and, therefore, more achievable.

Personal growth isn’t just about feeling better about yourself; it’s about taking ownership of your life. When you grow, you develop the awareness to look at your finances honestly, the confidence to admit what needs to change, and the motivation to make it happen.

Taking responsibility means understanding that while you can’t control every financial curveball, you can control how you respond. It’s about deciding that from this moment on, you’re the author of your financial story. Each choice, each habit, each goal becomes a line in the narrative you’re building—a story of empowerment, resilience, and growth.

Your financial situation can change, but it starts within you. Money alone can’t fix a mindset; it can’t build discipline, and it can’t give you purpose. But when you invest in personal growth, you set yourself up for financial success in a way that’s fulfilling and lasting.

So start today. Grow yourself, and watch as your financial future grows along with you.

Rewrite Your Story

/ Yvonne / Leave a comment

You’ve likely heard the story about a man who was fishing on the bank of a river. He was catching more fish than anyone else, so a crowd gathered to learn his secret. But when they saw what he was doing they got confused. Each time he caught a fish, he pulled a tape measure out of his pocket and measured the fish. Then he would put the small fish into his cooler and toss the big ones back into the river.

One of the confused onlookers asked about his strange technique. He told them that he kept only the fish that were 8 inches long. The onlooker asked why he was doing that. He said, “Because my frying pan is 8 inches wide.”

Most of us would think that man was crazy but how many of us do the same thing? You may not be throwing the big fish back. But how many times have you sat by and watched someone else get the promotion you wanted? Or saw pictures from a dream vacation that one of your friends took wishing you could go on one too.

Instead of nosediving into jealousy, and thinking that these things only happen for other people, ask yourself what’s holding you back from having them.

Limiting beliefs are deeply ingrained ideas about ourselves and the world around us that hold us back from reaching our goals. They often are rooted in past experiences, our upbringing, or societal conditioning. These beliefs shape our thoughts, attitudes, and behaviors, influencing every aspect of our lives.

For instance, someone may hold the belief that they are not talented enough to pursue their passion, or that they don’t deserve success and happiness. These beliefs create a mental framework that sabotages their efforts and reinforces a sense of inadequacy. Have you ever felt defeated before even starting something and asked yourself why you should even try?

There are a lot of common beliefs we tell ourselves like-

I’m not good enough

I’m afraid I’ll fail

I don’t deserve (fill in the blank)

I’m too old/young

It’s too late to change

These limiting beliefs create self-imposed barriers that restrict our potential and hinder personal growth. They sabotage our efforts, erode self-confidence, and perpetuate a cycle of negativity and self-doubt. When we operate from a mindset of limitation, we settle for mediocrity, avoid risks, and miss out on opportunities for growth and fulfillment.

The first step in overcoming limitations is awareness. You can’t fix a problem if you don’t know what the problem is.

It’s never as simple as “I’m not good enough”.  Ask yourself where that idea came from and explore it. Did you try before and it didn’t work out so you immediately thought you weren’t good enough and won’t try again? Or maybe it goes deeper and you were raised being told you weren’t good enough?

Every thought you have that limits your progress of getting to your desired goals can be overcome. But it takes challenging and reframing our limiting beliefs, replacing them with empowering ones that support our growth and potential. The hard part is that it requires a conscious effort and a willingness to step outside of our comfort zones

But by facing our fears, embracing discomfort and taking calculated risks, we expand our comfort zones and build resilience to overcome our self-imposed limits.

Positive relationships and a strong support network can provide encouragement, guidance, and accountability as we work to break free from our limitations.

Understanding what’s limiting us is the first step towards conquering those limitations. By unraveling the invisible chains that bind us, we open ourselves to a world of possibilities and opportunities. It requires courage, self-awareness, and a willingness to confront our fears and beliefs head-on. Yet, the rewards of overcoming limitations are immeasurable, leading to greater fulfillment, success, and happiness in life. So, take a moment to ask yourself: Do you know what’s limiting you? And are you ready to break free?

Connect with me to talk about how I can help you work through what’s limiting you and create a mindset of abundance! https://tulinccoaching.hbportal.co/schedule/64f0b0b8ccd64900c450f46d

The Bright Side of Things

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The power of positivity isn’t just a catchy phrase or a passing trend; it’s a mindset that can change your life in profound ways.

One of the most remarkable aspects of positivity is its ripple effect. When you choose to radiate positivity, you not only uplift yourself but also inspire those around you. Your positive energy becomes contagious, creating a chain reaction of optimism and empowerment. More than once, I’ve witnessed how a single individual’s decision to embrace positivity can transform the dynamics of an entire group, creating a supportive environment where everyone thrives.

Positivity is more than just being optimistic or wearing a smile on your face and pretending everything is perfect. It’s a mental and emotional state that focuses on the bright side of life, even when faced with challenges and setbacks. It’s about choosing to see opportunities instead of obstacles, focusing on solutions rather than problems, and believing in your ability to overcome adversity. It’s about acknowledging the obstacles but refusing to let them dictate your outlook or define your future.

Life is filled with ups and downs, challenges and triumphs. However, it’s not the events themselves but our interpretation and response to them that shape our experiences. A positive mindset equips us with the resilience to bounce back from setbacks, view failures as opportunities for growth, and navigate through life’s storms with grace and strength. But cultivating positivity is not always easy, especially in the face of adversity or setbacks. It requires conscious effort and a commitment to self-awareness and personal growth.

Numerous studies have shown that optimism and positivity are linked to better mental and physical health. Positive thinking can reduce stress, lower the risk of chronic diseases, and even increase lifespan. By focusing on the good, we can improve our overall well-being and enjoy a happier, healthier life.

Positivity is contagious! When we radiate positivity, we attract like-minded people and create deeper, more meaningful connections. A positive attitude can help us communicate more effectively, resolve conflicts amicably, and create a supportive and uplifting environment for those around us.

Believing in ourselves and maintaining a positive outlook can be a driving force behind achieving our goals. When we approach challenges with optimism and a can-do attitude, we are more likely to persevere, take risks, and seize opportunities that come our way. Positivity not only fuels our motivation but also empowers us to reach new heights of success in both personal and professional endeavors.

A positive mindset can boost your motivation and energy levels, making you more productive in both your personal and professional life. When you believe in yourself and your abilities, you’ll be more likely to take action and pursue your goals with passion and enthusiasm.

Here are a few ideas that can help you harness the power of positivity in your own life:

Practice Gratitude: Take a moment each day to reflect on the things you’re grateful for. Gratitude has a profound effect on your perspective, helping you focus on the abundance in your life rather than dwelling on what’s lacking.

Surround Yourself with Positivity: Surround yourself with people who uplift and inspire you. Limit exposure to negative influences, whether it’s toxic relationships, pessimistic news, or self-doubt.

Reframe Challenges as Opportunities: Instead of viewing challenges as insurmountable obstacles, reframe them as opportunities for growth and learning. Every setback is a chance to discover your strength and resilience.

Practice Self-Compassion: Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you would offer to a friend. Celebrate your achievements, no matter how small, and forgive yourself for mistakes along the way.

Focus on Solutions: When faced with problems, focus on finding solutions rather than just on the problem itself. Adopting a solution-oriented mindset empowers you to take proactive steps toward improvement.

Cultivate Mindfulness: Practice mindfulness techniques such as prayer, meditation, deep breathing, or visualization to center yourself in the present moment and cultivate inner peace.

Positivity isn’t about denying reality or ignoring the challenges we face. It’s about choosing to approach life with a mindset of possibility and empowerment. By embracing positivity, we open ourselves to our full potential and pave the way for a brighter, more fulfilling future.