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7 Money Beliefs That Might Surprise You—But Could Change Everything

June 18, 2025

7 Money Beliefs That Might Surprise You

Your money beliefs have a powerful influence on how you manage, spend, and grow your wealth.

So let’s talk about how those beliefs might actually be holding you back—and what you can do to shift them.

Because real life money doesn’t always look like what you see on social media or in those “10 steps to financial freedom” books. And it definitely doesn’t look like the outdated advice telling you to “just stop buying lattes” if you want to be financially secure.

The truth? A lot of the money beliefs we’ve inherited simply don’t reflect how money works in the real world. I’ve seen this firsthand—not in theory, but through years of working alongside clients from every background, income level, and lifestyle.

Here’s what I’ve learned:


Money isn’t just math.


It’s not about being hyper-disciplined or cutting every joy out of your life.
It’s not about shame or perfection.

Money is emotional. It’s tied to your relationships, your sense of safety, your identity, and how much freedom you feel in your daily life.

So let’s challenge some beliefs. These might challenge what you’ve heard before—But I promise you, these aren’t just ideas—they’re lived truths.

And if you let them sink in, they could completely shift the way you see your finances (and your future).

1. Debt Isn’t Evil—It’s a Tool

It’s time to stop spiraling in shame. Debt is not the villain it’s made out to be.
The most strategic (and yes, wealthy) clients I’ve worked with? They’ve used debt intentionally—to build businesses, invest in real estate, and create leverage for bigger opportunities.

The question isn’t “Is debt bad?” The better question is:

“Is this debt helping me build the life I want?”

Because when you understand money as a tool—not a reward, not a punishment—you start making decisions that actually align with your goals.

2. Build Wealth—But Don’t Sacrifice Your Life to Do It

I’ve seen people work tirelessly to “succeed” financially, only to look up one day and realize they’re disconnected from their joy, their health, their family… their life.

Money can buy options. It can buy time. It can buy comfort. But it cannot buy back moments.

I’m not saying don’t pursue wealth—I am saying make sure your pursuit is grounded in what truly matters to you. Otherwise, you’ll reach the goal and still feel empty.

True wealth is living in alignment. It’s having both financial freedom and a life you actually love. 

Money is meant to support your life, not replace it.

3. Spend your money—but do it with intention, not guilt or driven by impulse.

Let me say it louder for the back row:
  I will never shame you for your coffee habit. 

Want the latte? Buy it. Want to travel, redecorate, host an extra bougie party? Do it.

The problem isn’t spending. It’s mindless, reactive spending—usually driven by comparison or avoidance. But when you spend intentionally, in alignment with your values? That’s when money feels good.

Know what matters to you, and stop chasing what matters to everyone else.

4. Investing Is Important—But Strategy Comes First

You can spend your whole life chasing the “right” stock or the “best” ETF and still feel lost financially.

Because investing without direction is like boarding a plane with no idea where it’s going…fun in theory, but not great for your financial goals.

Your investments should serve your plan— whether it’s funding your retirement, buying back your time, or creating generational wealth, your investing strategy needs to match your vision.

So instead of asking, “What should I invest in?” ask, “What life am I trying to build—and how do my investments help get me there?

Your money should serve your vision—not the other way around.

5. Renting Is Not a Financial Failure

Let’s stop treating homeownership like a gold star on the adulting chart.

Owning a home can be a great decision in some seasons. In others? Renting is the smarter move—more flexible, more affordable, and more aligned with real life.

Renting isn’t “throwing money away.” It’s making a conscious, strategic choice.

Success isn’t just about owning property. It’s about owning your choices and when you buy something because you feel like you “should” when you weren’t really financially prepared for it – your choices go out the window. 

6. Numbers Matter—But Context Matters More

I’ve run the spreadsheets. I’ve optimized tax strategies and built solid investment plans.

But I’ve also seen people follow “the rules” and end up deeply unhappy. Why? Because the numbers made sense, but the decision didn’t fit their life.

The best financial plan isn’t just technically correct or always the one that looks best on paper—it feels right. It aligns with your season, your values, your energy, your family.

Sometimes the smartest financial move on paper just isn’t the smartest move for you. Remember that the numbers aren’t the only thing to consider. 

7. If You Don’t Engage with Your Money, Fear and Guilt Will Take Over

Avoiding your money doesn’t remove the stress—it multiplies it.

When you don’t engage, fear creeps in. Guilt follows. And soon you’re in a loop of anxiety, not because you’re “bad with money,” but because no one ever taught you how to build a relationship with it.

You don’t have to be perfect. You don’t have to have it all figured out.
But you do need to show up—for yourself, your future, your peace.

The Bottom Line?

You don’t need another one-size-fits-all money plan.

You need a financial strategy that feels like you. One that supports the life you’re actually trying to build—not just the one that looks good on a spreadsheet.

And that’s exactly what I do.

I don’t just focus on the numbers (though yes, I’m very good at those). I help women reconnect with their values, remove shame, and build wealth that supports their version of freedom.

So if you’re ready to do money differently—not just “better,” but more intentionally, more freely, and in full alignment with who you are—

If you’re craving a financial approach that actually fits your life—and helps you build wealth your way—I’m here for you and I know that my Financial Planning programs will be exactly what you need because they’ve helped hundreds of other women who came before you!

written by: victoria mcgruder, cpa, cpwa®

Get thoughtful stories and practical financial tips every Sunday. We go beyond the basics to help you make smarter money moves, build confidence, and see money in a whole new way—one that works for you and your life.

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hey there, i want to introduce myself!

Thank you for being here - I'm Victoria!
 

I'm a financial advocate, coach, and blogger on a mission to help you build wealth with confidence! 

Having worked closely with countless clients over my 15+ year career, I've gained a very deep understanding of money management and effective planning strategies in guiding individuals and families towards financial success. Now, I want to share that wealth of knowledge and insight to empower YOU to take control of their finances, make well-informed decisions, and create a life of abundance without the stress of finances looming over you. I'm so glad you're here! 

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