Why Discretionary Income Is the Real Goal

I often hear the phrase, “Money can’t buy happiness,” and I believe in the core value of not letting material things define you. However, there’s a profound difference between materialism and peace of mind.

As Ariana Grande’s song perfectly states: “Whoever said money can’t solve your problems…must not have had enough money to solve ‘em.” That isn’t a cynical take; it’s a realistic one.

For me, the goal isn’t buying a yacht. The goal is the absolute freedom of not having to worry. Not having to wait for payday. Being able to pay bills on time, or even a month ahead, takes an immense weight off your shoulders and relieves a level of chronic stress that actively damages your health and your relationships.

That relief is what I’m chasing. My ultimate goal is Discretionary Income. That means having the financial buffer to cover all necessary living expenses and still have significant funds left over for saving and enjoying life.

I want to be able to travel, volunteer, and most importantly, I want to be able to choose to work as I want…on projects that inspire me…not as I need to simply survive.

Beyond Happiness: Buying Peace

Let’s be honest, people: money is a necessity. It’s not something that creates the kind of everlasting happiness we dream of, but it affords two things that are incredibly important: financial freedom and mental peace.

In this country, money helps give you a sense of freedom and stability. It buys commitment to better health, better housing, and mental stability. Money can’t buy happiness, but money can absolutely buy a little bit of peace for your basic necessities and basic luxuries.

This brings me to my soapbox moment: Money is not the bad guy. It’s a mirror. It’s going to either enhance your bad qualities or improve your good ones, but it’s not going to change who you are at your core. It just helps remediate the constant distress of living in this economy.

So, let’s not make people feel bad about wanting more. Let’s aspire for a place in life and a society where everyone can cover the basic needs without fear.

As I step off my soapbox, remember: Monday’s about to start. Go get your money, go get your bag, and Ciao.