I recently wrote a book called Ben Franklin’s Guide to Financial Freedom. This post is a chapter from the book.

Day 9: Learn to be Content

Content and Riches seldom go together, Riches take thou, Contentment had I rather. [1743]

This is a book about financial freedom. And at first this Yoda-like statement sounds like opposite advice from what I’ve been writing. HOWEVER, let it sink in.

The freedom part of financial freedom is really the most important part. If we get the financials but don’t get the freedom we still lose.

The mindset seems to be as old as mankind that responds to the question “How much is enough?” with “Just a little more.”

There are abundant examples of ridiculously wealthy people committing suicide. At the same time, many people who lack material trappings are the happiest people you’ll ever meet.

So there’s not a direct correlation between money and happiness. And yet, at least here in America, life is much more comfortable if a family has $60,000 per year coming in than if they only have $20,000 per year.

If you can learn to be content and happy spending less than you currently earn, you’ll be better equipped to handle the down sides that inevitably come with wealth. Learn who you are now. Then stay grounded and authentic as you accumulate wealth. There are countless good things you’ll be able to use your wealth for. Just stay real.

Action: Take a hard look at the “things” in your life. Which are the ones that bring you joy? Which ones just take up space or worse—cost you money or effort to maintain?

If you’re feeling brave, get rid of the stuff you don’t need. Have a yard sale or donate it to Goodwill.

You’ll find the less you have, the less you’ll need. Sometimes less is really more. Your financial freedom is even closer as you give up attachment and identification with your “stuff.”