For observant people, correlation is a fascinating concept. Because it allows us to explore the hidden connections between seemingly disparate elements of our surroundings and of our lives, in general.
One such intriguing correlation that I've pondered about and think it's worth examining is the link between the breath cycle and the flow of money.
Let's start by understanding the breath cycle itself.
As we all know, breathing is a fundamental bodily function that sustains our lives. We inhale, drawing in oxygen, and then we exhale, releasing carbon dioxide.
There's a natural rhythm to this process – a flowing back and forth, an ebb and flow.
For the most part, we're not really conscious of this, it just happens by itself unless the flow is disrupted by external factors, for example, during intense exercise or when experiencing heightened emotions.
Correlating The Breath Cycle With Personal Finance
Now, let's consider how this breath cycle relates to the way we manage our finances.
Earning money can be likened to the inhalation phase – we're "breathing in" resources that sustain us.
Spending money, on the other hand, is akin to the exhalation – we're "breathing out" those resources.
Here's a noticeable difference. We might not be strategic on how we breathe in and out, but we ought to be strategic on our approach to earning and spending money.
One of the main reasons for that is money is a finite resource, unlike the air we breathe, which is much less finite.
Developing A Virtuous Cycle
If we're always inhaling (earning) without ever exhaling (spending), we'll find ourselves in a state of financial stagnation. There's this saying that "money not put to use is money not earned."
Conversely, if we're constantly exhaling (spending) without periodically inhaling (earning), we'll quickly deplete our resources.
One could also picture the whole process as a virtuous cycle that can be developed, a harmonious rhythm of earning and spending that allows us to build wealth over time.
When we earn money, we can be mindful of how we allocate those funds, ensuring that we're both investing in our future and also allowing ourselves to live in the present.
We can be strategic too on how and when we spend money, focusing on purchases that align with our values and long-term investments with the goal of growing our net worth.
The Importance Of Transition Periods
But there's one more important aspect to consider: the time between the exhalation and the next inhalation.
In the breath cycle, this is the moment of pause, the brief respite before the next cycle begins. In the realm of personal finance, this could be the period between when we spend money and when we earn it back.
This transition period is crucial, since it teaches a lesson that earning back the money we've spent may not happen instantaneously. It takes time to replenish our resources, to rebuild our savings, to recover from a financial outlay.
Just being aware of this rhythm and how it mirrors the natural flow of our breath can help us become more patient and disciplined in our money management.
It's a simple yet profound insight that can inspire us cultivate a healthier, more balanced relationship with one of the main resources that sustain us.
Thanks for reading!! Share your thoughts below on the comments.