Let’s talk about something most people don’t bring up in money conversations—financial guilt. It’s that weird feeling that creeps in when you’ve worked hard, you’ve earned your success, and yet… you feel bad about it. Maybe it’s because your family or friends are struggling, maybe it’s some deep-rooted belief that wanting more is “selfish,” or maybe you just feel like you don’t deserve it. Sound familiar?

Here’s the thing: financial guilt isn’t always a bad thing. Sometimes, it’s the thing that keeps us grounded, aware of the people around us, and focused on using our success in a way that benefits others. But—and this is a big but—when financial guilt starts to keep you stuck, constantly feeling like you’re not enough, that’s when it becomes a problem.

When You Feel Undeserving of Wealth or Success

Ever feel like you don’t deserve the money you’ve earned? Like, you’ve put in the hours, you’ve hustled hard, but deep down, you’re waiting for someone to call you out and say, “Actually, this isn’t yours”?

Yeah, that’s financial guilt talking. It can show up when your family or friends are struggling, and here you are, doing well, maybe even thriving. It’s that nagging voice that says, “Who are you to be successful when others aren’t?”

But here’s the thing: you deserve it. If you’ve put in the work, if you’ve made the effort, why shouldn’t you enjoy the rewards? Guilt over success can really hold you back if you’re constantly shrinking yourself just to make others more comfortable. You don’t need to dim your light to make someone else shine.

Inherited Beliefs: Money Is “Bad” or Greedy

Now, let’s get into the fun stuff—those inherited beliefs about money. Maybe you grew up hearing things like, “Money is the root of all evil,” or “Rich people are greedy.” These kinds of statements stick with us, and even when we know better, they can sneak in and mess with how we feel about wealth.

Maybe you’ve internalized the idea that wanting more—whether that’s more money, more success, or more freedom—is selfish or somehow wrong. But the truth is, money isn’t bad. It’s a tool. How you use it is what matters. Wanting more for yourself doesn’t mean you’re greedy; it means you’re striving for a better life, for you and the people you care about.

It’s about recognizing that those beliefs aren’t your beliefs. They’ve been passed down, maybe from well-meaning family members or society, but that doesn’t mean you have to carry them forward.

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Fear of Outshining Loved Ones

And then there’s this little gem: the fear of outshining the people you care about. This is a sneaky one because it can really make you hold back, even when you don’t realize it. Maybe you’re afraid that if you do too well, it’ll create distance between you and your loved ones. You don’t want to make them feel uncomfortable or left behind, so you keep yourself small.

This is where self-sabotage comes in. You start making decisions that keep you from reaching your full potential because, deep down, you’re worried about how others will react. And while it’s natural to want to stay connected to the people you love, here’s the truth: your success doesn’t take away from anyone else’s. In fact, you shining bright might just be the thing that inspires them to step up too.

So, How Do You Break Free?

The first step? Recognize that financial guilt isn’t serving you. Sure, it can keep you humble, but if it’s keeping you stuck, it’s time to let it go. You’ve worked for what you have, and you deserve to enjoy it.

Start by acknowledging those beliefs—whether it’s about feeling undeserving, thinking money is bad, or worrying about outshining others—and challenge them. Are they really true, or are they just stories you’ve been telling yourself?

And most importantly, remember: it’s okay to want more. More success, more wealth, more freedom. You don’t have to apologize for it, and you certainly don’t have to feel guilty about it.

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