7 Ways Others Influence Your Thoughts about Money ...

Similar thoughts about money can travel in the same circle. And if you and your friends struggle to make ends meet, they may constantly verbalize that you'll never get ahead. This mindset is what keeps people in the same place financially. Rather than think negatively, fill your head with positive thoughts and come up with solutions to your financial problems.

This is another common thought that needs to change. It's true that the majority of people go into debt to buy homes or cars, but there are people who live debt-free. And if you put your mind to it, you can become one of these people. There's no rule that says you have to carry credit card debt, or that you have to finance an automobile. If you work hard, save your money and make sacrifices, you might be able to buy the majority of your stuff with cash or pay off debt sooner.

For someone who doesn't have money, getting a large sum of cash might bring happiness. But often times, this happiness is short-lived and it doesn't solve a lot of problems. For example, money does not guarantee that you won't become ill, nor does money guarantee happy relationships with your family members. Money might make life easier, but it isn't the answer to every problem.

If you’re not happy with your position at work, some friends and family may tell you not to complain, but instead “be happy that you have a job.” Sure, unemployment is a real problem and many people struggle to find work. But if you're not happy with your career, you have the power to change your future. Don’t let others discourage you from advancing your education or exploring a new path.

I can't tell you the number of times that I've heard someone say, “you deserve it, treat yourself.” It's okay to splurge, and we all should enjoy the fruits of our hard work, but there is a limit. If you start splurging and buying things that you cannot afford, this has a domino effect that can strain your finances.

It's funny how friends and relatives like to spend our money for us. For example, if you get a new job and earn significantly more, others might convince you that it’s time to buy a house or upgrade your lifestyle to enjoy luxuries. But if you're financially savvy, you probably understand the benefits of living below your means. It’s easier to save for a rainy day when there’s disposable cash, plus you can better prepare for your retirement.

If you're extremely frugal and pinch pennies, there's nothing wrong with this. But if your friends are big spenders, they may call you a cheapskate and make other comments about your frugal ways. Don't let their thoughts influence your mind. At the end of the day, you'll probably have more money in your bank account and deal with fewer financial issues.

Your mindset about money can impact your financial future. And when it’s all said and done, you shouldn’t let others pollute your head with negative thoughts about money. What are other mindsets about money that need to be erased from our minds?