In our society, money has become a form of worship. People are often judged based on their income. Dependence on money is similar to a chemical addiction in some ways. It can cause a person to lose touch with reality. For example, we all know that eating too much sugar is unhealthy, and that eating late at night isn’t advisable. Everyone knows the importance of moderation. Yet, people still tend to overindulge in food and drink.

The same is true with money. Greed, impulsive spending—at these times, common sense can often go out the window. Some people develop a manic passion for hoarding wealth, while others live beyond their means and end up in debt.

However you view the worship of money, income in our society often defines one’s status. Having money does, in fact, make life easier and opens up more opportunities for health, self-improvement, growth, and socializing.

Attitudes toward money are usually shaped by family and later reinforced by the environment a person lives in. These views turn into habits that are hard to change. If someone grows up feeling financially restricted, they might attribute all their challenges to a lack of money or status, without even considering alternative solutions.

How to Change Your Attitude Toward Money

1. Try to break free from the influence of your environment.

2. Observe people who have a different relationship with money.

3. If changing your approach independently is difficult, find a role model. Look for alternative paths.

One key aspect of the money issue is that it’s often a taboo topic:

- Many people feel ashamed to ask for fair compensation for their work.

- It’s embarrassing to fall short of the financial status of one’s peers.

- Discussing sources and amounts of income is generally considered inappropriate.