learn about your money vibe

Good thing we’re here to help: here are some resources to get started.

money emotions

how do you FEEL about money?

if you’re an aspirational curator…

TL;DR:

You value quality & carefully curate your possessions and lifestyle. You appreciate the finer things in life, whether it’s a Bvlgari Serpenti or a Van Cleef pendant.

The Good:

You have good taste & appreciation for craftsmanship, not just for material goods but experiences & opportunities leading you to support artisans, small businesses, and sustainable practices. Also, you try to not worry too much about money: you’re probably okay covering a dinner bill every so often. And you’re definitely not charging friends $2 for snickers.

The Not So Good:

Your appreciation for "finer things" can sometimes lead to looking down on others who don't share the same tastes or financial means. It's a fine line between appreciating quality and being snobbish. Also, nice things are expensive and if not managed properly, this can lead to overspending and financial stress. The "aspirational" aspect can sometimes overshadow the "curator" aspect, leading to chasing status symbols rather than genuine appreciation.

The Playbook to Grow:

  • Mindful Consumption: Before any purchase, ask yourself why you want it. Is it genuine appreciation, or a desire for status? Wait 24-48 hours before making non-essential purchases.

  • Values Clarification: The desire for a perfectly curated life can lead to perfectionism and anxiety. Keeping up with the Joneses is real, so it's key to remember that life is messy. Define your core values beyond material wealth. What truly matters to you? This will help guide your spending and lifestyle choices.

  • Giving back: Donate to causes you care about. This reinforces your values and helps others.

if you’re a secure saver…

TL;DR:

Miracles don't just happen: you have to work for that bag and pay premiums just to have some eggs in the morning. You also know that money talks: money is power & influence in society.

the good:

You demonstrate strong financial discipline and a long-term perspective, understanding the value of hard work and money's impact. You also understand the role of money in society, which can be used to achieve personal goals and potentially influence positive change.

the not so good:

You may experience financial anxiety and prioritize status, potentially leading to rigidity and neglecting non-financial values. A strong focus on saving can sometimes lead to inflexibility in spending, even when it would enhance quality of life or create valuable experiences (e.g. relationships, personal growth, or community involvement).

the playbook to grow:

  • Identify Anxieties: Journal about your financial worries. What triggers them? Are they based on realistic scenarios or fears? A financial therapist could help with this!

  • Goal Setting Based on Values: Set goals aligned with your core values, not just financial ones. This could involve personal growth, relationships, or contributing to a cause you care about.

  • Philanthropy & mentorship: Consider donating a portion of your income to charity or giving time to financially educating others!

if you’re a financial guru…

tl;dr:

You’re driven by a desire for financial security and stability. Miracles don’t happen, and you have to work for that bag. Even with Mint shut down forever, you’ve probably created your own budgeting system that is superior to all.

the good:

You’re financially responsible. You budget, save, invest, and avoid unnecessary debt, providing a sense of security, self-reliance, and ability to pursue long-term goals. You also look 10 years ahead: you’re not driven by immediate gratification, not always caving into your 9pm Doordash cravings. You think about the future and contribute to your 401k.

the not so good:

Even if you’re not checking your Robinhood or Chase accounts to the penny everyday, a strong focus on financial security can sometimes lead to anxiety and worry about money. Also, having a robust budgeting system is great, but being too rigid can be a problem. Life throws curveballs, and it's important to be flexible and adapt to changing circumstances. While saving is important, being overly rigid can detract from quality of life.

The Playbook to Grow:

  • Financial Therapy (Optional): If financial anxiety is significant, consider seeking professional help from a financial therapist. They can provide tools and strategies for managing your anxieties.

  • "Joy Budget": Allocate a specific portion of your budget for "joyful" spending – experiences, hobbies, or small indulgences that bring you happiness. This allows you to enjoy the present without guilt.

  • Start Small: Begin with small, calculated risks. This could be investing a small amount in a new stock or exploring a side hustle.

if you’re a minimalist…

TL;DR:

Money's just a tool, not your whole personality. You don’t think about money often, Cover the basics, and don't overthink it.

the good:

You have a generally carefree, relaxed and low-stress approach to money, with reduced anxiety and less emphasis on material possessions or social status. Money isn’t on your mind on a daily, weekly, or even monthly.

the not so good:

You could tend towards financial neglect or disorganization, leading to a lack of long-term planning, potential missed opportunities for financial growth, and vulnerability to unexpected financial challenges.

the playbook to grow:

  • Develop a Foundation: Schedule money dates with yourself to build awareness. Set small, achievable financial goals linked to personal values.

  • Build Confidence: Seek financial education or mentorship to increase knowledge.

  • Create a Plan: Develop a basic financial safety net and emergency fund. Research and understand low-risk investment options.

  • Shift Mindset: Connect financial goals to personal values.

money knowledge

how much do you KNOW about money?

if you’re a budding scholar…

You are Ready and excited to learn about personal finance but just need the right place to start. Good thing we’re here to help :)

if you’re a savvy strategist…

You have a basic understanding of personal finance but looking to level up your skills.

if you’re a mentor…

You've navigated the complexities of personal finance and are ready to share your hard-earned wisdom. Guide others on their journey to financial success and make a lasting impact.

risk tolerance

how do you FEEL about risk?

if you’re an entrepreneur…

Risk makes you come alive. You're comfortable with uncertainty and potential loss. Think building something of your own & backing early stage startups.

if you’re an investor…

You seek a balance between growth and preservation. You're comfortable with some level of risk but avoid each extreme, diversifying your investments across multiple asset classes. Think a combo of stocks, bonds, and real estate.

if you’re a guardian / mentor…

You prioritize security & stability, preferring predictable outcomes & avoiding unnecessary risks. You may prefer more stable investments like bonds or CDs.

risk capacity

how much risk can you TAKE ON?

if it’s high… you are a growth investor

You have the means to invest, with little to nothing holding you back.

if it’s medium… you are a balanced investor

You have the means to invest, seeking a balance between growing your money and having some stable assets in case of an emergency.

if it’s low… you are a cautious investor

You value security and predictability, given current financial situation (e.g. debt, financial dependents).