Why imagination is more valuable than money, and other life-lessons from a thoroughly modern millennial.
Do you remember the Abba song,” Money money money, must be funny, in a rich man’s world?”
In a poor man’s world, humour can be hard to come by, which is why money is often a very serious conversation. I remember the do’s and don’ts of money from a young age, when I had chores to complete for my pocket money. That lawn mowed and driveway swept equalled rands which in turn equalled that latest movie for rent at the video store.
The sweat expended added zest and relish to the reward achieved. I have always tried to teach my daughter this and have praised her for her hard work. Conventional wisdom says hard work and persistence are vital lessons in having a healthy approach to finances and she is learning that lesson.
Being of good Scottish stock, my parents did not believe in splashing money around, even when they had it. They were quite frugal compared to other friends’ parents I saw when young. I think I may have passed this frugality onto my daughter, who is an avid reader but always asks for book vouchers for discounted books at a large publisher’s warehouse.
She has also taught me about money. Her vibrant imagination from a young age always entertained her, without any money being involved. She would make shapes on the wall using her hands (she called them her Shadwas) to cast a shadow and weave the shapes as characters into a lively story.
She reminded me of the power of imagination and how irrelevant money is in that equation. Now, as a teenager, she fills notebooks with written narratives, still expanding her imaginative universe.
They say money can’t buy you happiness but lack of it can certainly make you miserable. I have been there. Worrying about money and making those monthly bond and school fee payments, ensuring there is the food in the cupboard and the fridge has brought unhappiness and anxiety to not only myself, but many other parents out there during the lean times.
At the same time, living in the biggest house or driving the most expensive car means nothing if you are unhappy within yourself and not following your passion. Using money to make memories and share those special moments with those you love is what matters most to me. Have I learned any wisdom about money at all?
I hope so. Here are some more of my money matters do’s and don’ts that I would and do tell my daughter.
Look after the money and it will look after you. If you can have both then great, but if the choice is that expensive pair of designer shoes or a trip to somewhere new, ask yourself, which will last the longest in your narrative of life and be treasured the most? Perhaps buy a decent pair of shoes AND go on that trip.
You never know when tough times can roll up next to you, so plan for the future and bank some savings that will give you a measure of financial security and comfort. Save at least 20 percent of your earnings every month.
One of the greatest gifts money can give you is independence, and that is worth striving for so you can live life on your own terms, without being chained to mounting debt or by keeping up with the Joneses.
You should value those fine things you may have but also be able to shrug your shoulders if they break and treasure those things that cannot be replaced, and money can never really buy. Relish your successes at work and play and value your partner, family and friends.
Seek a balance between being aspirational and “splashing out” and saving for financial security, independence and peace of mind.
Remember to work hard and smart but remember that old saying too: you don’t find anyone in their last moments wishing they had spent more time at the office.
The intrinsic riddle of money is that it really does matter, but if you save, nurture and grow it, it doesn’t really have to matter that much as you focus on your passions in life. Finally, never lose your beautiful and rich imagination, for it is beyond price.
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