Harv's Corner 03/03/2025

"Think!

• We're all getting older. Are we really prioritizing Large inheritances for our kids when they might need help now? If you're fortunate enough to have the means, consider giving them some financial support while you're still around to see them enjoy it."

​Let money support your values
By ROSS LEVIN For the Minnesota Star Tribune

​Let money support your values, not other way around
To spend wisely, decide what is most important to you.


Most of us need to work to support ourselves and our lifestyles.
We cash a check and use the money to pay for things we need today or to cover anticipated future needs. But the question to ask yourself is:

Does your money support your values or does money dictate them?

Money supports your values when your spending is directed toward what's most important in your life.

​If family is a priority, then is the amount of money you are spending reflective of that? 

Money controls your values when rules or actions of others determine your needs. Once you've met your financial needs, then everything above that is discretionary. "I deserve this" and "I don't deserve this" are two sides of the same coin. If you are buying items because you can afford them, not because you really want them, then your spending is misaligned with your original values.
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Worse, if you are buying something because others have it, then you are letting their actions dictate your money values. 
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The way to calibrate your spending to match your values is through understanding what is important to you, describing why this matters, and then continuing to return to this when you stray.

Money choices are values choices. Aligning your actions with your values is the most effective use of your assets.
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Spend your life wisely.
Ross Levin is the founder of Accredited Investors Wealth Management in Edina. He can be reached at [email protected].