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Your Emotions Behind Debt
Julie Murphy • July 30, 2013
Not many things are more American than debt. If you really think about it, it’s amazing how easily we as a nation became so comfortable with it. We’ve gone so far as to classify our debts as good (student loans) and bad (credit cards) with so many things in between (mortgages, car notes, medical, etc.). Yet all of us struggle with the negative emotions attached to our money, especially our debt. And we find ourselves making major life choices based on the state of our finances.
You have a responsibility to go to work and pay that debt down until its paid in full. This causes you to put money in the spotlight, along with how many hours you work, how much you make, how hard it is to get ahead, etc. And don’t let something bad happen – a dead car battery, a busted furnace, a medical emergency – because you have to both take care of both your “right now” issues and still pay your debt.
You see how this affects our emotions? From anxiety to fear to hopelessness to anger, we constantly find ourselves trapped in a dangerous cycle, and our negative feelings about money are at the center of it all. Those feelings and thoughts will eventually turn into negative words and actions. Often, this self judgment may come off as logic, truth and reality. You know what you’ve said to yourself:
“I won’t spend any money until all my debt is paid off.”
“I hate this job, but I can’t leave it. I have too many bills to pay.”
“I can’t afford it, but I’ll just charge this dinner. I want to make my friends happy.”
Those statements above are examples of ways we trick ourselves into thinking we’re doing something good. Drastically cutting spending or staying at a job we hate to pay off debt on the surface are great ideas. In practice, it’s impossibly difficult and it invites negativity. We’re essentially punishing ourselves right now for our past choices. Some people take a total opposite approach and choose to spend freely on themselves and the people they care about, even if that is at the expense of their own financial stability.
These negative thoughts wrapped in seemingly positive actions do more damage than they do good. Debt has a strong affect on our psyche. Fortunately for us, however, our minds are incredibly powerful. We need to start using that to our advantage, not our detriment.
Action step
Are you ready to tackle your debt and other financial obstacles? Don’t let your head be filled with anything but positive thoughts. Remember, positive thoughts lead to positive actions. Our perceptions create our reality. Learn to recognize self-defeating thoughts and words. It makes an enormous difference in your ability to make changes in your life – financial or otherwise.
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As life moves forward, it’s easy to let distractions pull your energy in too many directions. That’s why it’s crucial to regularly revisit your intentions. Are they still aligned with where you want to go? Take time to refocus. This might mean creating new financial goals or reaffirming old ones. By re-centering your intentions, you’re not only redirecting your energy—you’re also inviting the universe to step in and help you make those goals a reality. 4. The Universe Responds to Action We’ve all been there: thinking, dreaming, planning—but not doing. This is where the fourth spiritual law comes in as a loving nudge. The universe can only respond when you take action. What steps have you taken lately toward your financial goals? Even small actions—like setting up an automatic savings plan or looking into a new investment—send powerful signals to the universe that you’re serious about manifesting abundance. And the universe will respond! The more action you take, the more opportunities seem to “magically” appear. Remember, action doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start small, but be consistent. Every step you take builds momentum toward your goals. Why Reapplying the Laws Matters Life is full of changes. Your financial situation, goals, and even your mindset will evolve over time. That’s why it’s essential to revisit and reapply the 4 Spiritual Laws of Money regularly. They’re not static rules but a dynamic, flexible framework that grows with you. Think of these laws like a compass for your financial journey. Whenever you feel off track, return to them. When you’re uncertain about your next move, let them guide you. The more you use them, the more they’ll become a natural part of how you think and act around money. Embrace the Journey Remember, financial growth is a journey, not a destination. There will be twists, turns, and perhaps a few bumps along the way, but with the 4 Spiritual Laws of Money, you’re never lost. These principles are here to help you continuously grow, adapt, and realign with your true financial path—one that leads not just to wealth, but to joy, freedom, and fulfillment. So, the next time you feel a shift in your financial landscape, don’t panic. Instead, revisit these laws, reapply them, and watch how they continue to guide you toward your next level of abundance. Now, what’s your next step? If you found these insights helpful, you’ll love " The 4 Spiritual Laws of Money , " where these principles are explored in depth. It’s now available as an audiobook, making it easier than ever to absorb these powerful lessons on the go. Whether you're commuting, exercising, or relaxing, you can take the wisdom of these spiritual laws with you wherever you are. Start your journey to financial and spiritual abundance today!
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Clear the path to prosperity by focusing on what truly serves your highest good in terms of wealth and well-being.