Everyone has a picture in their mind of the life they want to live. Some people think of a life of luxury, where money is never a concern and comfort is guaranteed. Others, think of a life of financial freedom, where they can live without worrying about bills, debts or the next paycheck. In addition to these, a lot of people also wish to have peace of mind, good health, and a secure future for their families. These wishes or dreams are typical and understandable, but as the saying goes, “If wishes were horses, beggars would ride.” Wishing doesn’t create the life we want.
When it comes to our financial life, it’s easy to see how true this is. Many of us wish we had regular income, a house, or possibly retire early. But those wishes are nothing but a vision in our mind and without meaningful action, they would remained just visions. Financial freedom includes much more than wants that people have - it includes planning, discipline and sacrifice. Wishing you were debt-free is different from planning your budget - and following the budget. Wanting to invest money is not the same as deciding to save a certain percentage every month.
One of the many reasons people stay in wishful thinking about money, is the requirement of maturity to take responsibility for financial discipline, which usually brings a level of discomfort. It’s easier to mentally picture the outcome of wealth - than it is to practically budget to save, invest, or decline unnecessary purchases. But if we want to experience change from aspiring for change to living the change - action is the only real bridge to cross. A dream is motivational, action becomes manifest.
Building the financial life we desire begins small steps. This may mean becoming educated about money, establishing new income measures, or reducing unessential living expenses. This could also mean creating long-term goals, and fostering time. No one builds wealth overnight. Consistency creates financial peace instead of a “wish dream”.
The life we desire is within reach if we apply deliberate action. A lifestyle of luxury, financial freedom, and peace is not just for the fortunate few.
They can be achieved when we combine vision, and self-discipline. Wishing gives us dreams, but taking action gets us results. The question to ask – which life do I want? In other words, what am I doing to move it closer today? In conclusion, the only real difference between a wish or a dreamer, and an action taker, is taking action. The life we want will not just come because of chance – it will come by decision, effort and consistency.