and motivated . If not , the experiences you seek can become a mindless form of drug that you chase from one adrenalin high to the next . Trying to fill a bottomless emotional void with experiences ultimately leaves you emotionally and financially empty .
THE KEY TO LIFE
As we move further up Maslow ’ s hierarchy of needs , we move into the area of selfdevelopment to improve our skill set , career prospects and financial future . This could come in the form of finding a new job , furthering our studies or entering into a business venture . The darker side of money as the key to life is revealed when we start using money to manipulate others and “ buy ” our way to the top . While this strategy may work in the short term , the eventual lack of substance and artificial relationships based on money favours usually get exposed , resulting in the permanent loss of trust , career opportunities and earnings potential .
SOURCE OF SELF- ACTUALISATION
We have now reached the pinnacle of the hierarchy of needs . The place where it is about seeking to become your best self and to live an integrated life that is true to your purpose . It is a place where you desire to express your gifts and strengths , do meaningful work , grow your area of influence and pay it forward by contributing to society . This contrasts with living a life focused on promoting and meeting your limited and selfcentred interests , desires and ego needs . Egos are fragile and create a false sense of selfworth and security . When the bubble bursts and it all comes crashing down , you will be left with a landscape of personal destruction from which it is usually tough to rise again .
MEANINGLESS
While it does not appear on Maslow ’ s hierarchy of needs , money may have one other meaning for you . It is a contradiction as it speaks to money having no specific meaning to you . If you have achieved a place of contentment around money , regardless of how much you have , then money means no more to you than it should and cannot control your behaviour .
Having an approach to money that sees it as something that comes and goes , and where you spend it when it is there but where you do not miss it if it is not there could be less than ideal . Money can be a powerful source of power for the good if dealt with intentionally and for the benefit of society through the creation of jobs , security , welfare and stability .
When engaging with our graduate professional members around financial planning , our PPS Wealth Managers seek to understand the main motivation behind each member ’ s financial priorities and needs . This ensures that the member ’ s expectations are aligned with what is required to meet the long-term financial planning objectives . Having members that are in touch with their own financial preferences are more resilient during challenging times on their financial journey and results in better advice outcomes .
Johan Gouws
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