UNSTUCK – How to Get out of Your Money Rut and Start Living the Life you Want
by Karin Mizgala and Sheila Walkington

(Excerpt from: Chapter 6 – Getting What you Really Want)

Anna and Joel dreamt of owning their own home. They were paying a fortune to live in a small basement apartment. They had debt, and they were in the habit of getting out of town on the weekends to enjoy a better quality of life. Because she couldn’t believe they would ever buy a home, Anna would buy $100 Home Lottery tickets in the hopes of getting lucky.

They wanted a house, but they didn’t let themselves want it enough to make it a priority. Instead they squandered money and perpetuated a spending pattern that made home ownership seem impossible.

Anna and Joel went through our money coaching program. They saw a house, and the stability that it would provide as a key part of their dream life. As a goal, they wrote down that they wanted to buy a house in a year. Then we helped them figure out what it would take to achieve the goal.

The couple stopped spending money on trips and take-out. With their new consciousness about their spending, they were able to cut costs, pay off their debt and have enough money for a down payment in only eight months.

That is the power of aligning your money with your goals. Once Anna and Joel allowed themselves to believe they could own a home, they put all their resources towards making the goal a reality.

Most of us have more power than we think—sometimes all it takes is more clarity and a belief that we deserve to have our heart’s desire. Once you have a clear vision of what you want and where you want to go, the next step is to start breaking down your vision and your intentions into more concrete goals.

Our goals are the carrot, the motivator, the reason we work hard or work smarter. A strong goal gives you a reason to make difficult choices, to be more careful with your money, and to spend less and earn more.

People who have a clear goal find it easier to do what it takes. They’re motivated and spurred on by what they can see ahead. They have good reasons to make changes. Everyone’s dreams and goals are different. Figuring out what will spur you on is the key. For some it’s starting a family, buying a house, getting married, taking time to travel, early retirement, or a desire for financial independence.

Worksheets:
Dreams Page – If Money Wasn’t an Issue, What Would You Do?
Your Life and Financial Goals

Join the Conversation:

What are your motivating goals for 2013?