Food and Money. What’s the Connection?

It probably comes as no surprise to hear that the two most common New Year’s resolutions are: Losing weight and Getting your financial life in order.  I hear this every year from many of my friends and clients.

Ever wonder why the two are so closely related?

If you really think about it, you’ll see the similarities between the two. Both food and money can have a mood altering effect. Shopping and eating can give you a sense of comfort and safety, even though the feeling may be short-lived. Both can be used as a way to manage feelings. In other words, they become a coping mechanism. Ask yourself—do you go shopping or do you overeat to numb, stimulate or comfort yourself?

I remember a time when I was dieting, losing weight and feeling good about it. So shopping was fun! I came home from one of my shopping sprees and it occurred to me that this felt like a binge. Maybe I should have bought the other outfit, or another pair of shoes, or maybe a purse…my anxiety level increased! 

The answer to losing unwanted pounds and/or getting a handle on your finances lies in your willingness to change your behavior. We’re talking about a lifestyle change, not a temporary fix.  With food that means rather than trying every new fad diet, you want to establish healthy eating habits that you follow every day of the year. The same goes for your finances…you need to establish bottom line behaviors that help you achieve your goals. For example, no more debting, balancing your checkbook every month, and creating a monthly spending plan.  There are five basic steps to achieving financial balance. You can read about them in previous editions of my newsletter at www.findingfinancialbalance.com.

Don’t be too hard on yourself. Remember, it takes time to change old patterns, and lasting change comes about gradually. You can’t will yourself to stop overeating or to stop spending compulsively.  If you feel you need help finding financial balance, you’ll find a roadmap on my web site, findingfinancialbalance.com.

Look for my upcoming workshop on Women and Money

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