My Money, My Choice: Using What I Have Wisely
Talking about money often creates discomfort. It is sometimes seen as a topic only for adults, or as something unrelated to emotional well-being. Yet from an early age, money is already part of daily life: receiving an allowance, spending on small pleasures, borrowing, saving, or running out of money before the end of the month.
Even though it is not always taught, the way we use money reflects how we make decisions, how we manage impulses, and how we think about the future. That is why learning basic personal finance is not just about counting bills; it is about learning how to take care of yourself and plan ahead.
But… what does it mean to use money wisely? Is it wrong to spend it on things I enjoy? How can I think about the future when the present already feels difficult? What is the relationship between money and personal responsibility? These questions are key to growing with greater autonomy and security.
This post invites you to reflect on mindful money use and on how small financial decisions can shape the future we build.
1. Money as a tool, not a goal
Money is neither good nor bad by itself. It is a tool. What matters is not how much I have, but how I use what I have. Sometimes people believe that only those with a lot of money can plan, but the reality is different: planning begins with small amounts and simple decisions.
Understanding money as a tool helps reduce anxiety and comparison. It is not about competing, but about learning to manage resources responsibly, according to one’s own reality.
“Money does not define who I am, but it can reflect how I choose.”
2. Spending, saving, and choosing
Using money wisely means learning to choose. Every time I spend, I am saying that something is a priority for me. This does not mean I cannot enjoy myself; it means doing so consciously.
Saving is not only about keeping money for the future; it is postponing a present desire in order to protect a greater goal. Learning this balance between spending and saving strengthens self-control and planning skills.
It is not about depriving yourself of everything, but about asking: Do I need this? Does it add something to my life? Is it worth it right now?
“Choosing well today makes tomorrow easier.”
3. Money and impulsive decisions
Many financial difficulties—even in adults—are not caused by low income, but by impulsive decisions. Buying without thinking, spending to fit in, or using money to soothe temporary emotions can create long-term problems.
Learning to pause before spending is an emotional skill as much as a financial one. It involves recognizing impulses, tolerating frustration, and thinking about consequences.
Managing money is also a way of managing emotions.
“Not every impulse needs to turn into spending.”
4. Thinking about the future without fear
For many adolescents, the future can feel distant or overwhelming. However, basic planning does not require knowing exactly what will happen; it simply means being a little more prepared.
Thinking about the future may involve saving for a specific goal, learning to keep a simple expense record, or avoiding unnecessary debt. Each small step adds security and reduces uncertainty.
Planning does not take away freedom; it increases it.
“Preparing myself does not limit me; it protects me.”
5. My money, my responsibility
Learning to use money responsibly is a form of self-respect. It means accepting that my decisions have consequences and that taking care of my resources is part of taking care of myself.
When a person learns to manage money from a young age, they gain more than financial stability: they gain confidence, autonomy, and decision-making skills. It is not about doing it perfectly, but about learning through the process.
Using money wisely is a skill built through practice and reflection.
“My money, my decisions, my learning.”
Final Thoughts
Basic financial education is a life skill. Learning to use money consciously helps us make better decisions, reduce stress, and build a more stable future. It does not matter how much you have today; what matters is how you choose to use it.
The future does not begin when you earn a lot of money.
It begins now, with small, conscious decisions.
With care,
Dr. Arturo José Sánchez Hernández, your friend in the promotion of health 💛🌿✨
Comentarios
Publicar un comentario