Unveiling Your Beliefs About Money
- Marc Lowe
- Mar 23
- 4 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
Money is one of the most emotionally charged topics in our lives. It shapes our choices, our relationships, and even our sense of security. Yet for most people, the beliefs driving their financial decisions operate quietly in the background—unexamined, unchallenged, and often inherited.
And the impact is real. A 2015 Associated Press survey found that 72% of Americans felt stressed about money at least once in the prior month. That’s not a small number.
It’s a reflection of how deeply financial strain affects our daily lives.
The Hidden Toll of Financial Stress
Financial stress doesn’t stay neatly in the “money” category. It spills into every corner of life.
A MarketWatch survey revealed:
94% of people said they sacrificed their mental health to stay afloat financially
92% reported physical symptoms like headaches, loss of sleep, and chronic tension
And it doesn’t stop there. Money issues are also relational issues. In a 2012 survey of certified divorce financial analysts, 22% of divorces were attributed to financial conflict, making it the third leading cause.
We often talk about budgeting, mindset shifts, or cutting expenses—but the deeper truth is this :
Your relationship with money is shaped long before you ever earn your first dollar.
That’s where money scripts come in.
What Are Money Scripts?
“Money scripts” is a term coined by financial psychologist Dr. Brad Klontz. It refers to the unconscious beliefs about money that we absorb in childhood—usually from our parents, caregivers, or environment.
Originally, researchers identified 72 distinct money beliefs. Over time, Klontz distilled them into four core archetypes that show up again and again in people’s financial behavior.
These scripts influence how you spend, save, invest, give, and even talk about money. Most importantly, they operate automatically—until you bring them into the light.
Let’s explore the four types.
The Four Money Script Archetypes
1. Money Avoidance
People with this script often believe:
“Money is bad.”
“Rich people are greedy.”
“Having money makes you selfish.”
Because money feels negative or corrupting, avoiders may unconsciously push it away—overspending, giving it away, or failing to save or invest. These patterns often trace back to childhood messages about wealth, morality, or scarcity.
2. Money Worship
This script centers on the belief that:
“More money will solve my problems.”
“If I earn enough, I’ll finally be happy.”
Money worshippers often work excessively, prioritize income over relationships, or overextend themselves financially—sometimes through giving or lending—because they believe money is the key to fulfillment.
3. Money Status
For this group, self-worth becomes tied to net worth.
Common behaviors include:
Spending to impress
Compulsive buying
Gambling or risky financial decisions
Hiding debt or financial struggles
The focus is on appearing successful, even if the reality tells a different story.
4. Money Vigilance
This is the most financially stable script, but it has its own challenges.
Traits include:
Strong saving habits
Careful budgeting
Frugality
Reluctance to spend, even when it’s healthy or necessary
Money vigilance can create security—but it can also lead to guilt around spending or difficulty enjoying the fruits of your hard work.
Reflecting on Your Own Money Story
Most Americans never receive formal financial education from their parents. Instead, we absorb beliefs through observation:
How did your parents talk about money?
Did they argue about it?
Was money a source of stress, secrecy, or shame?
Or was it discussed openly and calmly?
These early experiences shape your financial behaviors today—often without your awareness.
The good news is that once you identify your money script, you can begin rewriting it.
Rewriting Your Money Script
Awareness is the first step. From there, small intentional actions can help you shift your relationship with money.
For example:
If you lean toward money vigilance, try setting aside a “joy fund” for vacations, date nights, or hobbies.
If you identify with money avoidance, practice checking your accounts regularly without judgment.
If you’re a money worshipper, explore non-financial sources of fulfillment—relationships, rest, creativity.
If you resonate with money status, focus on long-term goals rather than short-term appearances.
Your money script doesn’t define you. It simply explains where you’ve been. You get to choose where you go next.
✨ Final Thoughts
Understanding your unconscious beliefs about money is one of the most powerful steps you can take toward financial clarity and peace. When you uncover the script running in the background, you gain the ability to change the narrative.
If you’re ready to explore your money story more deeply—or want guidance on building healthier financial habits—I’m here to help.
About the Author
Marc Lowe, CFP® is a fee-only fiduciary advisor based in Waterford, CT, helping pre-retirees & small business owners make smarter financial decisions.
The information presented in this article is the opinion of the author and does not reflect the views of any other person or entity unless specified. The information provided is believed to be reliable and obtained from reliable sources, but no liability is accepted for inaccuracies. The information provided is for informational purposes and should not be construed as advice. Advisory services offered through In The Money Retirement, an investment adviser registered with the state of Connecticut. The information linked to on third-party sites is being provided strictly as a courtesy and convenience. We make no representation as to the completeness or accuracy of information provided at these websites. When you access these websites, you are leaving our website and assume any and all responsibility and risk for use of the web sites you are visiting.The tax and estate planning information offered by the advisor is general in nature. It is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal or tax advice. Always consult an attorney or tax professional regarding your specific legal or tax situation.
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