Money is so overrated. Although we need it in this capitalistic society, it really can be a nuisance.
Here’s the thing. We all know the saying that money doesn’t buy happiness. It doesn’t. It can buy things or experiences that bring us momentary joy, but it’s not happiness. That awesome new car you are driving that you were finally able to buy? One day you will be complaining about how much money you laid out to fix the brakes.
That fabulous vacation you took? It will end and although you will have great memories, that moment is over and you will find yourself “remembering when”. That promotion and raise you have been busting your butt for? That sense of achievement will most likely be followed by the stress of the increased responsibilities that come along with it.
Don’t get me wrong. I’m not being a “Debbie Downer” and saying you shouldn’t want these things, or any of those physical pleasures and momentary experiences. Not at all. Go enjoy those moments that take your breath away!
Just don’t put all your emotional investment into these goals and moments. Leave some room for the long term payment you should be cashing in on: Gratitude.
Imagine the kind of world we would have if we bought and paid for joy in gratitude instead of money.
Thanks is $1. Thank you $5. Thank you very much $10. You touched my heart and soul; I am forever grateful. $1 million.
Why did we move away from a barter system? Mr. Woodworker, I will trade you this sack of potatoes for a new wheel for my wagon. Ms. Seamstress, what a beautifully crafted gown; I will be happy to paint and restore your worn shop if you will make a dress like this for my wife. I will gladly pay you Tuesday for a hamburger today.
Guess what happened in these kinds of exchanges? Gratitude. Authentic appreciation for the exchange. Not a piece of green paper we take for granted that in reality, we have no real value for…we just know we need more to get more. Here’s some money, now give me that mass produced replica of something I want that a machine made. If the cashier and purchaser exchange a thank you, have a nice day in the process, well then there’s something!
The more I become aware of my own gratitude for the plethora of blessings I have in my life, the more I am aware of their TRUE worth, and what I might have paid for them. Or even better…I am finding most of what I am grateful for cannot be bought at all. For the things that are purchased in money—like my house I live in—it’s not the size or items in it that I am grateful for. It’s the feeling of safety and security. It’s a foundation for my children. It is in a good neighborhood surrounded by great neighbors.
I know it’s unrealistic to think that I could just give it all away for thank yous and still function in this money-driven society. But I do wish we could go back to simpler times when exchange of service and goods meant something.
I am always happy to exchange my writing, editing, communication and design talents for assistance with my website, a great review or recommendation, a professional massage or simply spreading the word about me.
What do you have to offer that we can barter with and improve both of our businesses?
By bartering, we help each other—and in this way, we can Pay it Forward to other entrepreneurs like us.
BTW….THANK YOU for following, for hiring, for engaging with me. You touch my heart and I am forever grateful.
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