Hello everyone, this is in response to the contest #iucontest for this week.
I have always thought about being financially free because of how tough things were growing up. I longed for a time when I would not have to do the rat race just to earn money that would fizzle away before the beginning of another month. A time when I would just sleep and the money I have worked for over the years would keep coming without so much effort like I have always done. The question from this contest I'm sure has crossed the minds of many people because money is very important to everyone, and as the bible even puts it, it's a protection. However, that question is something that is personal and quite complex.
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For me, financial freedom is not about amassing lots of money more than I and my third generation will ever need, like many people do today. It's about having enough to cover essentials right now and make future plans to pursue important goals without the stress of the rat race that many of us face today.
Financial freedom for me is really about caring for family needs comfortably. I want to have food, clothing, shelter, healthcare, education and some investments to sustain these needs without anxiety of how I can meet my next bill. Part of my desires is the ability to extend help to others who are not able to cater to their needs. This always gives me deep satisfaction when I'm able to uplift others because true wealth is really measured by how much we uplift others, not just by how much we accumulate.
Beyond taking care of important needs and supporting other people, having financial freedom is also an opportunity for me to enjoy the good things of life. Certain things I've always wished for, like enriching experiences that give comfort and joy, such as visiting different countries, experiencing many different cultures, exotic food, beautiful sights and the likes. Of course this is possible with some investments like properties and other businesses. This allows room for rest rather than labouring excessively.
Money can solve many problems but not all problems. It can sustain life but can not give us life. It can not buy peace amongst family and friends, and neither can it buy love and contentment. This is why our view of money should be balanced. It should be a tool to reduce unnecessary suffering or hardship, not the ultimate goal in our lives.
All in all, the amount of money we need to be financially free varies from person to person. For me, it's having the essentials for survival, generosity, growth and a meaningful living.
Thanks for reading
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