I had the pleasure of being interviewed by Helena Zachariassen of My Happy Home recently. Here is the interview reproduced for you.
Start With Your Wallet
Did you know love and respect for your money go hand in hand with love and respect for yourself and your belongings? In your daily life, you might unconsciously allow your belongings and finances to control you. Your possessions (as well as your money!) end up in all the wrong places, you do not care for them, and they might get lost. You search for them for hours and then give up and go online to buy more. Sounds familiar? And potentially even get into debt for it using credit cards. It’s time to take back control of your finances and your life and start to respect and love your money and yourself more!
Here are two things you can start with right away, and neither requires a huge amount of time.
Tip 1: Declutter your wallet and appreciate your money more
Let’s start with your wallet.
- Clean and Organize: Is your wallet clean, tidy, and inviting? Or is it falling apart, filled with old receipts, notes, small coins, and business cards?
- Choose Wisely: Make sure you choose a wallet and a material you really like!
- Regular Maintenance: Spend a few minutes regularly decluttering your wallet from unnecessary papers. Whenever possible, deny taking paper receipts and ask to have them emailed to you.
“The wallet is like a king to whom you can never show too much respect.” – Marie Kondo
Your wallet is usually on the receiving end of any past emotional baggage intertwined in the money you keep there. Treat your wallet and money with utmost respect and gratitude for providing you with what you need. If you care for it well, keep it tidy, and respect it, you might notice changes in how you use your money. Feel grateful every time you reach for your wallet. Always have some money in your wallet – flowing money attracts more money.
Tip 2: Using the KonMari Method to find JOY in your finances
Decluttering your physical belongings according to the KonMari Method categories creates space for life and increases clarity about what matters most to you. But can you do the same process with your finances? Absolutely!
- Set Clear Goals: Be very clear about your financial goals. Start with your vision as you do when decluttering your belongings.
- Organize Financial Statements: Check your bank statements and categorize your budgeting. This step, like the “power of the pile,” helps you see exactly where your money goes (living costs, medical expenses, food, education, travel, clothing, savings, etc.).
- Tidy Up Expenses: Get rid of unnecessary expenses. Small daily or weekly expenses can add up significantly over a year.
- Mindful Purchasing: Ask yourself whether a purchase is necessary and truly sparks joy before buying. Decluttering your belongings often leads to changes in consumption habits.
- Recognize Abundance: Understand that having enough means you are already rich.
Interview Insights with Ilana Jankowitz
Q: Ilana, what is your role as a certified Money Coach?
“I work with women to change their Money Story by understanding how our subconscious beliefs, behaviors, and patterns are formed and limit us. I help them open the flow of money into their lives and business by doing deep work.”
Q: How can you declutter and change your money (hi)story if there is emotional baggage tied to it?
“We hold onto baggage that we tolerate in our lives, like old relationships, emotions, and lifestyle choices. Decluttering makes space in our energy for money to flow into our lives. Letting go of the past is sometimes necessary to see a different future and possibilities.”
Q: What’s the best way to get rid of debt and declutter your credit card bills?
“Keep a money journal and write down your emotions when spending. 95% of our actions are driven by emotions. Keep a budget, which tells your money where to go instead of wondering where it went. If you haven’t started saving, start today.”
Q: How can you become more mindful and better at saving?
“When you receive money, immediately set aside a percentage for savings, then pay your bills. Savings is a habit that needs to be practiced.”
Q: What advice do you have for readers struggling with never having enough?
“There is more than enough, and there is a connection between life and money. Our money beliefs are tied to our self-worth. This is where I do most of my work.”
Q: What are your best tips to start 2021 and become financially independent?
“Track your spending, find where you can save, and declutter to get the flow of money into your life. Sell things you don’t need, check your bank account regularly, and stay mindful.”
Interested in knowing more about my work? Take the Money Quiz and book a free call with me.
Take The Money Quiz
Ready to uncover the secrets of your financial personality? Take our Money Quiz today and gain valuable insights into your relationship with money. Understanding your Money Archetype can empower you to make smarter financial decisions. Click here to take the quiz and start transforming your financial future now!
