As a wealth advisor, people often ask me why I chose this profession. On the surface, it might look like my work is all about numbers, charts, and tax law. But the truth is, my passion lies in something deeper, the psychology of money. I believe that behind every financial decision is a story, a memory, or a belief that shapes how we save, spend, and invest. Helping clients uncover those stories is what makes financial planning transformative, and it’s why I do what I do.
The holidays are the perfect time to reflect on this connection between money and meaning. For many, the season brings joy, generosity, and togetherness. But it can also stir up stress, guilt, or old money memories. Maybe someone grew up in a household where holiday gifts were scarce, and now they feel pressure to overspend to compensate. Or perhaps they were taught that money should be saved at all costs, and they struggle to enjoy the season without anxiety. These are examples of what researchers call money scripts or money memories, unconscious beliefs about money that often originate in childhood and continue to influence us as adults.
In my own practice, I use the concept of money memories to help clients explore these experiences. A money memory might be the excitement of receiving a first paycheck, the shame of a financial mistake, or the pride of giving generously. These memories often reveal the scripts driving behavior. When we bring them to light, clients begin to understand not just what they do with money, but why they do it. That awareness is powerful, and it opens the door to rewriting old narratives and creating healthier financial habits.
During the holidays, this work feels especially important. Financial planning isn’t just about budgets and balance sheets; it’s about aligning money with values. Do you want to prioritize experiences over things? Do you want to give generously without jeopardizing your long-term goals? Do you want to create traditions that reflect joy rather than debt? By exploring the psychology of money, we can make choices that honor both our financial health and our emotional well-being.
I’ve seen firsthand how this approach changes lives. Clients who once felt shame about their spending patterns learn to see those behaviors as rooted in old scripts, not personal failure. Families who struggle with holiday stress begin to craft traditions that reflect their values instead of societal pressure. And individuals who once avoided financial conversations discover that planning can be empowering, not intimidating.
For me, this is the heart of financial advising. It’s not just about helping people accumulate wealth, it’s about helping them rewrite their financial stories so they can live with confidence, generosity, and peace of mind. The holidays remind us that money is never just money. It’s tied to memories, emotions, and relationships. When we understand that, we can use financial planning not only to secure our future but to create more meaningful moments in the present.