We often look at money through the lens of subtraction. You swipe your card, hand over cash, and—poof—it’s gone.
There’s an almost automatic reaction of stress or scarcity, especially when the numbers in your bank account shrink.
But what if we shifted that mindset? What if, instead of seeing money as something that’s lost, we saw it as something that’s transferred into abundance?
When you spend $200 on groceries, it’s easy to focus on the dent it made in your budget. But pause for a moment. What did you receive in return? You didn’t just “lose” $200—you exchanged it for shelves stocked with food to nourish your family. You gained the convenience of not having to hunt, gather, or grow that food yourself. You have fresh produce, snacks for your kids, meals that will bring your family together around the table. That’s not a loss. That’s abundance.
Think about your morning coffee. Maybe you spend $5 at your favorite café. It’s not just coffee—it’s a warm ritual that starts your day, crafted by someone else so you didn’t have to grind the beans, boil the water, and perfect the brew. That small purchase buys comfort, convenience, and a little moment of joy.
Money is always an exchange. It’s never just disappearing into the void. It’s flowing—transforming into goods, services, experiences, and opportunities. The key is to recognize what it’s transforming into.
When we approach spending with gratitude for what we receive, the stress tied to money begins to loosen. Instead of thinking, “I had $200, and now I don’t,” we can think, “I’ve exchanged $200 for nourishment, convenience, and the ability to provide for my family.”
This mindset shift doesn’t ignore the importance of budgeting or financial responsibility. It simply reframes how we view the natural flow of money in and out of our lives.
By seeing spending as an investment in abundance—whether it’s food, shelter, education, or small joys—we soften the grip of scarcity thinking.
Now, just to be clear—I’m not saying,
“Okay, go wild and buy everything your heart desires!” — (“Put the online shopping cart down…don’t say YES to everything in your amazon “save for later” list.)
I’m simply offering a new way to look at your money—a way to encourage a healthier, more abundant relationship with it. One where spending isn’t just a loss, but a conscious exchange that brings value into your life.
So the next time you feel that sting of spending, ask yourself:
What abundance did I just receive in return?
This shift of mindset will also allow you to see how many blessings truly surround you.
The Wild Gems 