Money = fun

Back in January, I awoke way too early on a Saturday morning to head down to the Inspired Action workshop by Matthew Ferry.

When I headed home that evening, I was aware of many valuable insights. But one of the highlights of the day was the Contribution Game.

When we left for our first break, Matthew asked us to not only interact with others — but to walk up to people that we would usually never invite into our universe — and ask them what they needed to achieve their dreams.

What did I learn? That there were many fascinating people with incredible visions for their life and the world around them — who just needed a bit of help from their friends. Some of whom were strangers until minutes before.

I always knew there were karmic reasons to help others. But beyond that, I recently realized that the value of the Contribution Game extends beyond karma. By reaching out to others, we learn how many bright, passionate, motivated people can be part of our existence. Those are the types of people that help you get yourself out of your rut and reach for the previously impossible!

Not to mention that I’ve usually avoided asking for help, because I didn’t want to seem less than perfect. So this type of interaction is definitely a challenge for me!

Now my goal is to incorporate the Contribution Game into everyday life.

Morningstar is one of my favorite investing sites. With a premium membership, you get 24/7 access to analysis, stock screeners and more — plus great education resources like their Investing Classroom. And the best part is that you get paid to learn about topics ranging from ratios to NAV! Once you’ve earned 790 points by completing quizzes, you get 60 days of premium membership for free.

CNNMoney has the coolest budgeting tool I’ve seen in ages. The Prioritizer asks you to choose 15 different goals, then asks you questions to help you get your monetary priorities straight! The perfect resource for money-avoiders like me!

Congratulating yourself on every success — no matter how minute — is one virtually foolproof way to guarantee more success. Some of you are mocking me now. But if you don’t believe me, commit to writing down five successes every day. It’s gonna be harder than you think. That’s why it works. Almost everyone finds it very easy to minimize their successes. But if you focus on them every day, you realize what a rockstar you really are! And develop the confidence to overcome any obstacles blocking the path to your dreams. Including your money myths, a.k.a. excuses.