Something many young people say, and that I once said myself is that, “I don’t want to be rich. I just want to do something I love and be happy.”
Today, I’d like to tell you why this is flawed thinking. Why thinking this way isn’t helpful, and why it’s even selfish. First, however, let’s talk about why this manner of thinking sounds noble. “I don’t care about being rich. I don’t need the material possessions of this world. I just want to do something that fulfills my soul.”
That sounds nice right? I’d agree with you. Here’s the problem, however. While you don’t need to fly in private jets, or eat $100 dinners, failing to make a solid income is incredibly selfish. Why? You don’t need to be carelessly spending on a lavish lifestyle to be happy, but it is important you at least have the financial reserves to take care of the people you care about.
Mom is stuck in a cold place like Minnesota or Wisconsin? Fly her out on the dream trip of her life to Playa Del Carmen or Bali. Grandma is sick and in poor health? Having a solid income with money in the bank ensures you have the ability to visit her, and make her smile before she passes.
It’s difficult to be happy if you can’t take care of and offer a comfortable lifestyle to the people you love. Living here in Thailand, money is very important. Money is what allowed me to fly my girlfriend and I over to Thailand and enjoy a month-long trip in a beautiful apartment with a pool, gym, and sensational view of the mountains. It allowed us to take a cooking class, go zip-lining, and dine at some nice restaurants.
Increasing your income allows you to do all of these things — without having to worry about whether you’re going to have any cash left at the end of the month. That’s why I encourage you to focus on money more and not be a digital nomad that forever tries to scrape by on $800/month.
Money isn’t the only thing to consider, but it is important. Don’t stay thinking small because of the constant $300/month videos (no hate on Steve, I love the guy). Being frugal can be cool, but expand your income at the same time you’re frugal.