What I Believe

I am very excited about the launch of this new web site and blog.  Switching from the eNewsletters I’ve been writing for the past three years to a blog will allow for more of a two-way dialogue with readers and will free me to write about more money-related topics.

Since this marks the beginning of a new adventure, I thought I would let you know what you can expect from this blog – what I’m passionate about, what fuels my writing and speaking.

I believe the most satisfying uses of money are those that help us fulfill our life purpose, and while financial goals tend to vary from person-to-person, purpose is something we all have in common.  Researchers who have studied what makes for a meaningful life say we were all designed to live for something larger than ourselves, to enjoy close relationships with other people, and to use our unique gifts, talents, and passions to make a difference with our lives.

The “something larger” for many people, including me, is really someOne – God.  I am a Christian and my faith is the single most important aspect of my life.  Exploring ways that faith impacts our use of money is something that interests me a lot.  In fact, once a month I will write about a money-related verse from the Bible.  Whether you are committed in your faith or simply curious about spiritual matters and how they relate to your use of money, this blog is for you.

I believe our use of money has a significant impact on our relationships with other people. I plan to frequently write about how we can use money in a way that helps strengthen our most valued relationships, with a focus on marriage and raising money-smart kids.

I believe each of us has a unique set of gifts, talents, and passions.  Used well, money can free us to make the difference with our lives we were designed to make.  And that is one of the best possible uses of money.  I plan to tell stories highlighting ways that people have arranged their use of money accordingly.

I believe a budget may be the single most misunderstood and disliked personal finance tool around (at least among people who have never used one), and also the single most helpful financial tool.  If you don’t use a budget, or as I prefer, a “cash flow plan,” it’s my mission to inspire you to give it a try and to teach you how.

I believe we were designed to be generous.  In fact, one of the most enjoyable uses of money is contributing to causes that matter to us.  I will write stories of people who are just beginning on their journey of generosity, people who are “crazy generous,” and people at all points in between.

I believe one of the best ways to dial down financial stress is to keep some money in reserve.  I’ll write about how to build savings and the best places to keep such money.

I believe debt can enslave us (I know this one all too well).  And I’m not just talking about credit card debt.  Taking out too large a mortgage can be a form of financial bondage as well. So, I will champion the cause of living free of all forms of debt (with the exception of a “reasonable” mortgage) and I’ll teach you how.

I believe the timeless principles of investing still hold true, even after the tough times we’ve been through with the recession.  I will use this blog to teach those principles.

I believe spending well isn’t about obsessive frugality.  In fact, it’s not about less.  It’s about more – having more knowledge of where our money is going, so we can be more effective in our use of money, so we have more for what matters most.  A frequent topic in this blog will be new ideas for spending smart on everything from cars to clothes, and from travel to technology.

So, those are some of the essentials of what I believe.  With each post, I welcome your feedback, friendly debates, and follow-up questions.  For a free subscription, click here.  You’ll receive an e-mail each time a new article is available – approximately twice a week. I believe you’ll find them well worth your time.