Last year my reverend gave a series of talks on a book he read entitled Twelve Powers in You. The book describes  physical, spiritual, and emotional aspects of the 12 powers inherent in each of us. Fascinated by these talks, I’ve decided to expand on them through the money perspective that I often see things, being a financial planner.
When I first thought of Power and Money I thought I was writing about a political soap opera. But unlike those dramatic soaps, this article has little to do with that kind of power and money.
According to Google, Power is the ability to do something or act in a particular way, especially as a faculty or quality, like “the power of speech”.
Spiritually, power is being able to transform thoughts into action.
Emotionally (soul), power is the ability to express truth through our words and actions.
Physically, power is represented by our voice, muscles, and limbs. What we say and do expresses our power.
What does power have to do with money?
Our power lies in our ability to be true to self. Our use of money reflects this power. If we spend it on gimmicks and material things that are meant to make an impression on others, we’re looking for acceptance from outside of us, and thus giving our power away. If we spend it on things, or maybe more appropriately, experiences that express who we are and enhance our self-image, we’re expressing our true power.
A good example of this is a friend of mine who we used to have over for dinner a lot before kids. The first few times I’d wear nice clothes and try to look really nice to impress him and his wife because I wanted them to like me. At the time I wanted that sort of acceptance because I admired him. When we were kids, he always seemed to be so secure in who he was. After we’d had them over several times I realized that he wore the same clothes he always wore. He was the same, true to himself. He was showing me how to be true to myself. Now when they come over, I wear what I want to wear because it makes me feel good, not because I’m looking for acceptance. We’re all more comfortable for it. How have you expressed your power with your money?
