Robert Kiyosaki describes the financial problems of today as “being caught in the rat race.” What this means is, every day we are striving to make financial progress, but it seems that we never have the forward motion we want. In other words, we feel that we are running in circles. We resolve, on a yearly basis, to make changes to correct this, but our efforts bear little fruit. This is truly a tremendous problem. Debt is so ingrained into our thinking that we believe it is necessary for financial stability. The truth is, however, it is not! It is for this reason why so many are screaming, It is time to get out of the rat race! It is time that we begin realizing the results that our efforts demand.
Every day we are bombarded with content telling us what we need. We need a new car at new lower financing rates. We need the latest technology, with a payment that is equivalent to a mortgage payment. And we need the latest credit card that gives superior awards we can use towards travel. But do we really need these things? Or, Can you imagine life without debt? Can you see a life where a student does not have a loan; grasp the idea of a car that doesn’t have a note; or foresee a time that you have a home with no mortgage? For many, the answer is no. Our notion of what financial stability is is skewed. We believe if we can make our minimum payments, then our finances are stable and affordable. Even that says our view of affordability is incorrect. If you have to make payments, then this begs the question, is it really affordable?
The very definition of financial stability dictates that we don’t have to worry about making payments. The idea of financial stability says we can afford life. Meaning if you need or want it, you simply pay for it. If I were to tell you that gaining financial peace is within your grasp and you can have it, would you believe me? The truth is, finding financial peace is something that we all can choose. The question is will you do what you need to do to get it?
What do you need to find financial peace?
First, stop letting others dictate what you need! We all should have a firm grasp on our own notion of financial stability. This definition will help us to see that debt is not a financial tool. It is actually a financial hindrance.
Second, we should all have a plan, to help to improve our financial position. This plan tells our money what we want it to accomplish, and not the other way around. The plan will help us to see that we are in the driver seat and have control of our financial life.
Finally, we should all re-evaluate our plan consistently. The goal of the plan is to help you reach your financial endeavors. If it is not, then make the necessary adjustments, so you are reaching your goals.
The product, debt, is sold to us so forcefully that it is hard for many to see life without it. That, however, is exactly what we need and strive for. A life without debt. If we can see a life without debt, we can begin to see a way forward. That vision will help us to recognize that we can get out of the rat race and find our way to accomplish what we resolve to do every year, find financial peace.
Resources
- Dave Ramsey – Total money makeover
- Robert Kiyosaki – Rich Dad, Poor Dad
- Chris Hogan – Everyday Millionaires
- Chris Hogan – Retire Inspired
- Corey Stokes- Financial Coaching Services
Corey Stokes 