Emotions and money
Emotions often control financial decisions!
Our feelings and emotions are a natural part of life and influence many of our choices, including financial ones. It is important that we understand how emotions can shape our decisions about money so that we can take more informed steps.
Let’s remember that we can feel a whole range of emotions – from joy and euphoria to sadness, fear or depression, and any of these can influence our financial decisions.
When we act under the influence of strong emotions, it can lead to:
- Irrational financial actions. Sometimes, under the influence of a moment or intense emotion (whether joy at a win or sadness at a loss), we may make decisions that are not good for us in the long run. For example, we may buy something we don’t need, or make a quick decision to invest, without thinking first
- Hasty credit decisions. When we feel pressure, fear of running out of funds or need money quickly (e.g. in an emergency situation), we may decide too quickly on a loan without carefully analyzing the terms or our ability to repay. It is important in such situations to give ourselves time to think and calculate calmly
- Relying on the advice of friends. In difficult times, it is natural to seek support and advice from loved ones. If we feel lost or uncertain, it is easier to trust the opinions of those around us. However, when it comes to financial matters, although the advice of friends may be well intentioned, it is worth remembering that everyone’s situation and experiences are different. It is important to rely on verified information and, if possible, seek professional advice
- Needs for immediate gratification. Sometimes we want something “right now” – a new thing, a pleasure, a mood enhancement. This desire for instant joy (especially when we are feeling unwell or bored) can cause us to spend money we would need for other, more important purposes, or to go into debt
- Hasty purchasing decisions. As with credit, emotions can lead to impulsive purchases. Sometimes we buy something because we feel sad, bored, to ‘cheer ourselves up’, or we simply see an ‘opportunity’ that turns out not to be as beneficial as we thought in the heat of shopping
- Assuming that everything will be fine. It is a very positive approach to believe in a good future, especially when we feel optimistic and euphoric. However, in finance it is also important to be prepared for different scenarios, not just the optimistic ones. Contingency planning gives us a sense of security and helps us avoid stress in more difficult moments
- Avoidance and fear of responsibility. Talking about money can be difficult, and taking responsibility for your finances can seem overwhelming, especially if you are feeling anxious or depressed. Sometimes we avoid making mistakes or difficult decisions out of fear, which can lead to a build-up of financial problems in the future
- Different approaches to managing finances in a relationship. Each of us grew up in a different environment and has different experiences with money. It is natural that in a relationship, partners may have different habits and perspectives on finances, which are often deeply rooted in their emotions and personal histories. It is important to talk about these differences openly and respectfully in order to find common, comfortable solutions that take into account both parties’ perspectives
Remember that understanding these mechanisms is the first step to building greater control and peace of mind in your financial life. Feelings are important, but being aware of their influence on decisions allows us to act more wisely and with a greater sense of security. We are here to support you on this journey
Find time to cool down and make a sensible decision
This is a very important principle in financial management, especially when we feel strong emotions. Often under impulse, excitement, but also sadness, stress or fear, we can make decisions that we later regret.
Why take a deep breath and give yourself time?
- Emotions distort the picture: When we are under the influence of strong emotions, our thinking becomes less rational. We find it easier to succumb to momentary desires, peer pressure or advertisements that appeal to our feelings. Postponing a decision allows emotions to subside and us to see the situation more clearly.
- Avoiding hasty actions: Spontaneous purchases, quick decisions on loans or investments without thinking through all the pros and cons often lead to losses or debt. Cooling off time gives space for analysis, research and comparison of offers.
- Greater control over finances: When we make informed decisions rather than those dictated by emotions, we gain a greater sense of control over our own money. This boosts our confidence and helps us build a more stable financial future.
- Protection against manipulation: Salespeople and advertisements often use emotions (e.g. fear of ‘missing out’, wanting to be ‘better’ or ‘happier’) to encourage us to buy. When we give ourselves time, we become less susceptible to such techniques.
- Building healthy habits: practicing patience and postponing important financial decisions until ‘after we’ve cooled down’ builds healthy habits that will last us a lifetime.
Kamila Rowinska’s quote:
Money loves your emotions.
If you don’t control your emotions, you will never have money.
This quote perfectly captures the essence of what we are talking about. It’s not about completely eliminating emotions from our financial lives – that’s impossible and inhumane. It is about learning to recognize and manage them so that they do not dictate our decisions. Kamila Rowińska points out that if our emotions freely and unchecked influence our financial choices, it is very difficult to build stability and prosperity. It’s a reminder that emotional awareness is the key to financial success and peace of mind.
Therefore, before you make any important financial decision, take a deep breath, reflect, and wait for your emotions to subside. It’s a small step that can pay big dividends.