Tips on Financial Goal Planning for the Non-Materialistic Lifestyle

A new trend is emerging amongst America's corporate world. Layoffs and unstable employment atmospheres are forcing workers to re-evaluate their dedication to the rat race, a movement that has led many toward entirely new lifestyles. Once enamored with obtaining physical, material proof of our successes, the trend now bends toward finding emotional and spiritual happiness instead. With increasing rates of depression, anxiety disorders, and other problems that are often tied to stress and lack of fulfillment, it's no wonder why so many employees are working toward a new beacon of American "success." The only problem is, most of us simply don't know where to start. If that sounds a bit like you and your current situation, consider the following tips on financial goal planning for the non-materialistic lifestyle.

Tip #1: Write down what you really want. Most of us want money not for the sake of accumulating green bills, but for more simple reasons. Security, self-esteem, a child's college education, a home that gives us more space to breathe, etc. Be specific, and name the things you want without directly referring to an object or a purchasable item. For example, you might say you wish to improve your child's chances for a better education or that you want the ability to live in a home that brings you joy.

Tip #2: Decide what money can really do to help you achieve your goals. Upon completion of the previous exercise, you may have realized that some of your goals have little to do with actually achieving mass amounts of wealth. Some goals you may be able to reach while earning less, working less, and spending more time on your more fulfilling pursuits. Other goals you may be able to find less expensive but equally acceptable replacements for.

Tip #3: Make a list of what material possessions are keeping you from reaching your real goals. If that BMW is causing you to have to put in seventy hours a week to pay for your child's education, perhaps it's time to trade it in.

Tip #4: Make a list of your basic necessities. Health care, the most nutritious food you can find, and a sturdy home are examples of necessities here. For this step, only list the bare minimum.

Tip #5: Take a glance at which of your basic necessities are draining your bank account. If your "sturdy home" is costing you your sanity and time with your family, it might be time to invest in a "for sale" sign.

Tip #6: Begin to change your shopping approach. Go ahead and prepare for the non-materialistic lifestyle by taking a completely different approach to shopping. Anything you purchase from this point forward should add something valuable to your life, such as education, broader horizons, an appreciation for beauty, etc. Items that will not last long, no matter how hard you try, and will not add anything of permanent value to your lifestyle should take up less room on your budget (think magazines, children's toys, pet toys, and anything liable to be discarded within six months).

Tip #7: Begin taking note of free and inexpensive life quality boosters. Ok, that sounds complicated, but it's really quite simple. All it means is to write down things you love, such as beautiful music, classic literature, coffee shops, good conversation, local ball games, cable TV, good health, swimming, dancing, social events and groups, hobbies, activities, etc., that add quality to your life. Learning to focus on these small, inexpensive perks available to us is the first step toward gearing a life toward the non-materialistic. When you discover what really gives you happiness, you may find it has little to do with money. Start taking advantage of those things more often.

Tip #8: When buying more expensive "extras," always invest. An individual whose life revolves around happiness rather than accumulating financial wealth absolutely must be careful when making purchases in a still somewhat materialistic society. The pressure to purchase furniture, clothing, cars, and homes on a whim is very present, and can lead to very serious consequences. Take your time and invest in everything. It's ok if that means spending a little more than you're used to, but do be sure to limit your purchases to finer, longer lasting items when buying for the long term. You'll appreciate what you have even more, and your material possessions will give you more fulfillment in the future as a result.

Tip #9: Finally, create a money-happiness exchange list. Living a non-materialistic lifestyle does not mean giving up the finer things in life. What it does mean is re-evaluating the reasons we work so hard for so many hours in a particular field. If your current career, for example, buys you a few toys to enjoy on that rare day off but doesn't offer much for the majority of your waking hours, the money-happiness exchange you are receiving isn't balanced. Deciding what's worth your valuable energy is key to this step.

Developing a non-materialistic lifestyle today means literally going against the way our society has developed over the past fifty years. Expect a few roadblocks along the way, perhaps a few compromises, and even a few failures. However, keep in mind that your ultimate goal is to create spiritual, mental, and emotional growth and happiness for yourself and your family. Whatever you earn above and beyond what provides those things will be a bonus.