Isn’t it funny how being unable to have something makes you want it more? If you are dieting, that donut seems to be the only thing between you and eternal happiness. If you are broke, nothing in your closet fits or looks good and shopping - being out of the question - is all you want to do. In many cases, not being able to be, do, or have something seems to cause pain and suffering. Even if it never has in the past.

In the same way, living within your means can cause fear and anxiety to well up inside you. Imagining that you are unable to have whatever you want, whenever you want feels like the ultimate denial. Like a punishment.

Living within your means shouldn’t feel stifling or like denial. It should feel:

• Powerful
• Mature
• Responsible
• High-functioning

These are all amazing things to be celebrated. Living within your means isn’t about lack, it’s about freedom!

It’s hard to believe that living within your means is...