The path to prosperity
I know what my dreams are. My own house with a beautiful garden in Utrecht and a studio in Mallorca where I could spend the cold months writing articles, books, playing tennis and coaching. I know I can achieve this if I manage my finances wisely. Instead, I constantly allow temptations to punch a hole in my wallet and push me further away from my dream life. But I say enough! It’s time to take control, to shift my mindset and to build financial confidence. And I want to take you on this journey with me.
Money isn’t just numbers on a screen, it’s deeply emotional. Our financial behaviours are shaped by subconscious beliefs, childhood experiences and even neural wiring. The good news? Neuroscience, psychology and business research provide cutting-edge insights into how to shift from financial anxiety to confidence and abundance. Here’s how you can take control and strengthen your relationship with money.
Reprogramming your money mindset
Your brain is constantly looking for patterns and reinforcement. If you’ve spent years believing you’re bad with money or that wealth is unattainable, your neural pathways will reflect those beliefs. But thanks to neuroplasticity, you can rewrite these patterns.
A study from the National Institute of Mental Health found that repeated affirmations can rewire neural circuits. So, start small: reframe negative thoughts. Instead of “I’ll never be financially stable,” try “I am learning to manage money wisely.” Over time, your brain will begin to adopt a healthier perspective.
The dopamine-driven power of small wins
Financial confidence isn’t about having millions in the bank, it’s about consistency and control. Your brain releases dopamine, the feel-good chemical, when you achieve small goals. Leverage this by setting micro-financial wins:
Save an extra €50 this month.
Set a no-spend day each week.
Track your spending for a week.
Each success strengthens neural pathways linked to financial empowerment. According to a study by the Journal of Consumer Research, people who track small financial victories are 25% more likely to feel in control of their finances over time.
Beat financial avoidance with the “Money Date” ritual
Avoidance is a common financial issue, many people fear looking at their bank statements. How to fix this? Make it enjoyable. Enter the Money Date.
Once a month, set aside an hour to check your accounts, review expenses and set financial intentions. Light a candle, pour your favourite tea (or wine!) and turn it into a self-care ritual.
Research from Harvard Business School shows that when we reframe mundane or anxiety-inducing tasks into something pleasurable, we’re more likely to stick with them. A Money Date transforms financial management from stress to self-empowerment.
Tapping into the Scarcity vs. Abundance Effect
Scarcity thinking: constantly worrying about money, activates the amygdala, the brain’s fear centre, making rational decisions harder. A 2013 study from Princeton University found that financial stress lowers cognitive function by up to 13 IQ points.
Shifting to an abundance mindset helps. Start by:
Listing things you already have and appreciate (not just money, but skills, opportunities, support systems).
Practising generosity - even small acts, like tipping or donating €1, reinforce a sense of abundance.
Visualising financial success. MRI scans show that visualisation activates the same brain areas as real experiences, making them more likely to become reality.
Make your future self proud with Pre-Commitment
Procrastination is a silent wealth killer. Behavioural economists suggest using “pre-commitment strategies” to override it. For example:
Automate savings so you don’t rely on willpower.
Set calendar reminders for financial check-ins.
Use commitment contracts - apps like StickK allow you to set financial goals with real-world consequences.
Studies show people who pre-commit are 40% more likely to follow through on financial plans.
Your brain = Your wealth
You are not doomed to repeat financial mistakes. By harnessing neuroscience and psychology, you can rewire your brain for confidence, control and prosperity. Start with small wins, schedule that Money Date and embrace an abundance mindset. Financial empowerment isn’t just about numbers, it’s about how you feel, and how you take action.
Are you ready to transform your relationship with money? Get in touch and let’s plan it all together! Your future self is cheering you on!
