You Don’t Know What You Don’t Know: The Hidden Power of Intentional Spending

I was recently speaking with a client who had just completed a renovation that could have been a feature in a high-end design magazine. Every detail was immaculate, and every finish was top-of-the-line. As the invoices started rolling in though, they were left with more than just a new kitchen. They were left wondering why they felt more anxious than accomplished. They had been so focused on creating something beautiful that they hadn’t stopped to consider the cost - not just financially but emotionally as well. 

This scenario is all too common, and it’s a powerful reminder of a concept I often discuss - intentional spending. More than just budgeting, intentional spending is about aligning spending with values and long-term goals and avoiding the risk of getting swept up in the moment. 

The Power of Identity Shift

Taking control of your finances starts with an identity shift. Become someone who spends money intentionally as opposed to being someone who spends money without much thought. This shift isn’t just about budgeting better; it’s about becoming more mindful of your financial choices and ensuring they reflect what truly matters to you. Try to identify what you are seeking to achieve in the longer term. Is this your forever home? Or is this a step in the journey and thus your goals should be more focused on the ROI. 

What You Don’t Know Can Hurt Your Wallet

Here is where the idea of “you don’t know what you don’t know” comes into play. Most people are not fully aware of how their financial habits are driven by unconscious beliefs. For example, you might not realise that your habit of always choosing the most luxurious option, whether it’s a hotel or a car, is more about projecting success than about actual enjoyment. Alternatively, is your tendency to overspend on events driven by a belief that your worth is tied to how much you can impress others? 

 Intentional Spending: The Real Power Move

Intentional spending isn’t just a financial strategy—it’s a life strategy. It is about prioritising what truly brings value to your life and cutting out what doesn’t. Maybe intentional spending (for you) means enjoying nice restaurants or indulging in luxury experiences—and that’s perfectly fine as long as those choices are in line with what truly makes you happy. Luxury isn’t the problem; the key is making sure your spending reflects your personal values and goals, not just external pressures or expectations. Instead of pouring money into the latest trend or the most luxurious option because that’s what you think you should do, why not invest in what genuinely makes you happy? Perhaps it’s a memorable experience with loved ones, or maybe it’s putting that money towards a future goal that genuinely excites you. The real power move isn’t in how much you spend, but in how intentionally you spend it. 

 The Ripple Effect of Smart Choices

When you start spending intentionally, you’ll notice a ripple effect throughout your life. Your financial habits will begin to reflect your true priorities, and you’ll feel more in control—not just of your money, but of your life. This isn’t about making do with less; it’s about making the most of what you have and ensuring that every dollar works as hard as you do. So, next time you’re about to make a purchase, pause and ask yourself: Is this spending in line with my values and goals? Am I spending intentionally, or am I on autopilot? You might be surprised by the answer—and that’s where your real financial freedom begins. 

Final Thoughts

Intentional spending can be a powerful tool in mitigating the risk of financial stress. It’s not about cutting back; it’s about stepping up and taking control of your financial future. Whether it’s treating yourself to something luxurious or investing in your long-term goals, the important thing is that your spending aligns with what truly matters.