Chapter 1 Money Is Energy

If you think about it, money is an energy source. One of the ways Webster’s Dictionary defines energy is “the physical or mental strength that allows you to do things.” Money, like gasoline for your vehicle, allows you the ability to do the things you want to do in life. It is literally and figuratively the fuel that propels you through life.

We all need a good amount of energy to fuel our lives—physical energy (sleep, food, and water); mental energy (education, information, conversation); spiritual energy (prayer, meditation, fellowship); energy for our homes, vehicles, and schools (electricity, heating and cooling, gasoline); and economic energy (money and investing).

Everyone has the quest of having enough economic energy to fuel a desired lifestyle without getting into debt, becoming a burden on family or friends, or running out of money. While many have the best of intentions when it comes to managing their money, many ignore those good intentions. Simply put, most people are not planning or saving enough. In fact, Voya Financial research found that only 17 percent of working Americans have a formal financial plan and only 31 percent have a written budget. Simple steps such as these are key foundational building blocks for a secure financial future.1

There Is No Silver Bullet

Everybody wants a silver bullet. You know what? I don’t blame anyone for this, but guess what: There isn’t one. Searching for a silver financial bullet is like searching ...

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