6 Why’s: People’s Discomfort With Money Is Palpable

What does a healthy mindset look like?

Photo by Daniel Adesina on Unsplash

Zach Byler wrote about the five reasons people are scared to talk about money, which include the following:

1. Fear of the “Jones Family”

2. Lack of financial literacy

3. Cultural and societal norms

4. Fear of appearing greedy or materialistic

5. Privacy concerns

6. My Add: Mindset

Can you relate?

I’ve noticed two primary types of people when it comes to discussing money:

• People who are comfortable talking about the amount of money.

• People who are uncomfortable talking about money.

People who are uncomfortable chatting about money frequently show visible signs of discomfort through their body language, changes in speech patterns, or emotional responses. Some people shut down when you bring up financial conversations.

The 6 Reasons

#1 Fear of The Jones Family

People want to be perceived positively.

In our society, those with money have the power.

Those with money are respected.

Those with money are more attractive.

Suppose you have less money than you’d like to have or don’t measure up according to the standards you believe are positive.

In that case, you might struggle with financial insecurity and discomfort when people discuss the topic or inquire about your finances.

#2 Lack of financial literacy

Ever feel imposter syndrome when the topic of money comes up? All the economic and investment jargon can go straight over your head.

Here’s what I do: if I don’t understand something, I ask the question to increase my understanding; that’s the difference.

The best way to increase your financial literacy is to study, learn, and ask questions; to do this, you have to relinquish your ego.

If you’re scared of looking dumb, you’ll stay “dumb.”

Those who ask the questions and seek answers without a fear of looking dumb are the ones who become the smartest.

#3 Cultural and societal norms

It’s culturally “rude” to inquire about people’s financials — even if you’re considering partnering up with someone, this is one of the most crucial conversations you could have.

Money and sex are some of the most taboo subjects, yet most people want both of these things.

#4 Fear of appearing greedy or materialistic

A few negative beliefs people have about money include:

• If you have money, you’re evil.

• If you want to make more money, you’re greedy.

Money doesn’t make anyone terrible, and financial desires also don’t make anyone evil or greedy.

But if your motives to obtain more money are only to satisfy yourself instead of the greater whole, there is little reason for you to ever come into more money.

Overly selfish desires never amount to much.

“What kind of deal is it to get everything you want but lose yourself?” — Matthew 16:26

Those who come into more significant amounts of money constantly seek ways to provide value to others; this is where real money is generated.

#5 Privacy concerns

If you have money, there could be a fear of losing your money (especially if you come from poverty) or people trying to take advantage of you.

We live in a world where people like to flaunt their money, but there will always be people who are more cautious about who knows what they have.

#6 Mindset

Most people are brought up in the middle or lower economic class, which means they likely think negatively or neutrally about money and might have a lack / broke mindset (e.g., the belief there is never enough for everyone, many things are “expensive,” and the habit of living paycheck to paycheck).

If you don’t come from money or haven’t received much financial education, you likely don’t have the best relationship with money, which can create discomfort around the topic. 

Your mindset about money is the catalyst to how much money you will earn over your lifetime and how you will manage money throughout your life. 

A healthy mindset about money equates to:

• Living below your means

• Prioritizing financial education

• Not being intimidated by wealth

• Being creative and increasing your income

• Not allowing money to rule your life — staying in control

• Not living paycheck to paycheck — having robust savings

• Thinking there are enough resources in the world for everyone

Can You Relate To Any Reasons Mentioned?

Everyone has reasons why they may or may not enjoy discussing money.

But the more comfortable and confident you become about having these crucial conversations, the more productive you can manage your own money and financially collaborate with others.

Taboo subjects are frequently some of the most essential ones.

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This article is for informational purposes only. It should not be considered Financial or Legal Advice. Not all information will be accurate. Consult a financial professional before making any significant financial decisions.