“I just want more money! Money makes the world go around and I don’t have any of it, and I want it. I’m not being greedy. I just want money so I can live!”

I was perched on the edge of my seat due to the vehemence with which my client was speaking. She was earnest but sounded a little desperate too.

“If I could just have money. Then I could really do the things I want to do. I’m working so hard, I put in long hours at the office, and long hours at home. I’m trading time for money because I don’t see any other way to make it happen. I feel like I’m waiting around until all this money shows up so I can finally live my life. It sounds silly when I say it out loud, but there it is.”

And she was right.

It was a little silly.

Now before you go accusing me of being insensitive, hear me out. This is what I told her.

To put your life on hold is the surest way to misery.

You were put on this earth to live life to the fullest. To find your purpose and give it your all. There are many lessons along the way, but never lose sight of where you’re going.

And never ever settle.

Don’t settle for a mediocre version of the life you were meant to live. Don’t settle for a job that doesn’t fire you up, or a Love that doesn’t ignite your passions. Spend your days in the ecstasy of adventure! Look at life through the eyes of a child and wonder at its majesty.

Life is either a daring adventure or nothing. ~Helen Keller

But here’s the kicker.

You don’t really want money. You want time.

I know, I know. At times we do need money to get around in our world. But truly what you really want is time. Time to sit and talk with your teenagers, or grandchildren, or parents. Time to figure out what’s missing in your diet. Time to explore a sleepy old town and reminisce about simpler times. Time to bring your blood pressure down and simply relax. Time to learn about one of your many passions. Time to exercise, workout, go for a walk. Time to cook meals at home. Time to enjoy friends.

…without always having that nagging burden weighing you down where you feel you “should” be doing something else, or making that almighty dollar, or finishing that last project.

Time to just be.

Working desperately to make more money, or turning a blind eye to the preciousness of your life right now, or waiting for money before you live your life is going to cause you to experience many regrets in the future. Live the life you have now. The money isn’t the issue. It doesn’t matter. Not truly. What matters is you engaging in your life.

And who knows, the richness of life may just make you forget all about money. And then you are rich indeed.

Much Love,
Jen