We like to think we’re honest with ourselves when it comes to money. But if we’re being truly truthful, most of us are carrying around a handful of beliefs about money that just aren’t based on facts rather they’re based on feelings. Hopes. Fears. Things we picked up from our parents or social media. And the longer we let those money lies sit unchallenged, the more they shape the way we save, spend, and plan for the future.
Here’s the kicker: Most of us don’t talk about money nearly enough to realize when we’re being misled by our own thinking. So today, let’s call out some of the biggest money lies we tell ourselves—and learn how to trade them in for truths that can actually help us build stronger financial lives.
Lie #1: “I’ll be happier when I have $_____.”
Raise your hand if you’ve ever thought this: “If I just had a little more in my savings account… or if I earned $10,000 more a year… then I could relax. Then I’d be happy.”
It’s a tempting belief and it makes sense. We associate money with freedom, comfort, and less stress. But research shows that after a certain point, more money doesn’t automatically equal more happiness. That’s because happiness isn’t tied to hitting a specific number. It’s tied to progress.
The real win comes from setting meaningful financial goals—and then watching yourself make steady progress toward them. That’s where the confidence kicks in. Not from an arbitrary number, but from knowing you’re in control and on your way.
Lie #2: “I deserve it, even if I can’t afford it.”
We’ve all said this one, right? After a tough week or a big win or just because “I work hard. I deserve to treat myself.” And you do! But that doesn’t mean every splurge is healthy.
This lie often shows up when we’re trying to soothe something: stress, exhaustion, maybe even comparison. The truth is, buying something you can’t afford today doesn’t solve the problem and it can create a new one when the credit card bill comes around.
So what’s the better mindset? You do deserve nice things. But you also deserve long-term financial peace. And when those two feel at odds, take a breath before you swipe. You might find another way to treat yourself like time, rest, or a small indulgence that doesn’t break the budget.
Lie #3: “I have strong financial willpower.”
Let me ask: When was the last time you walked into Target for toothpaste and walked out with a cart full of who-knows-what?
We all like to believe we’re rational with money. But the truth is, most of us are emotional spenders especially when we’re tired, overwhelmed, or trying to keep up with people around us.
Impulse spending is a real thing. Studies show the average person spends hundreds each month on unplanned purchases. And using credit instead of cash? That bumps spending up even more.
So how do you avoid it? Willpower helps, but systems are better. Try making a list before you shop. Unlink your credit card from your favorite online store. And give yourself a 24-hour pause before any non-essential purchase. You’re not weak. You’re human. Give yourself tools that make it easier to succeed.
Lie #4: “I’ll save more later.”
This one is sneaky. It sounds reasonable, especially when money feels tight. “I’ll save once I get a raise.” “Once the car’s paid off.” “Once the kids are in school.”
But here’s the truth: If you don’t start saving now, you’re probably not going to save then either.
The hardest part of saving isn’t the amount it’s the habit. That’s why even putting away $10 or $25 a week now is so powerful. It builds the muscle. It creates momentum. And over time, thanks to compound interest, it adds up way more than you’d think.
So start small. Automate it. And then increase it when you can. You’ll thank yourself later.
Lie #5: “I have plenty of time to think about my financial future.”
Let’s be honest: Planning for the future can be overwhelming. Retirement, college savings, emergency funds. Those aren’t exactly light dinner conversation topics.
But procrastination doesn’t make them go away. It just gives those challenges more time to grow.
If thinking about retirement feels too big, break it into something bite-sized. Open a savings account. Increase your 401(k) contribution by 1%. Set one financial goal for this month. The sooner you start, the more options and peace of mind you’ll have down the road.
Lie #6: “Some debt is good debt.”
We hear this all the time that student loans and mortgages are “good” debt. Credit cards? Bad.
But here’s the truth: All debt comes at a cost. And the most important thing isn’t whether the debt sounds good or bad. It’s whether it aligns with your values and long-term goals—and whether you can afford it.
Rather than labeling debt, look at what it’s doing for you. Is it helping you grow, learn, build? Or is it keeping you stuck, stressed, or making minimum payments for years on end?
Debt isn’t moral. It’s math. Be honest about whether the return justifies the cost.
Lie #7: “Wanting more is selfish.”
This one can really hold us back especially for anyone taught to put others first.
Here’s what I want you to know: It is not wrong to want financial growth, comfort, or security for yourself and your family. Wanting more doesn’t mean you’re greedy it means you’re dreaming bigger. It means you’re motivated.
When we stop apologizing for our financial goals, we make space to actually pursue them. And when we do that, we don’t just improve our own lives we create ripple effects for our communities, our kids, and our future.
Let’s Replace the Lies With Truth
Here’s the truth I want you to carry with you:
- You don’t need to be perfect with money to make progress.
- Your financial past does not define your financial future.
- And when you face your money beliefs head-on, you can rewrite the story for good.
Start by paying attention. When a spending decision makes you pause, ask yourself, “What am I really telling myself right now?” And then ask, “Is that actually true?”
From there, you can take one small step—setting up an automatic transfer, cutting one expense, having one honest conversation.
It’s never too late to change the narrative.
Daniel