Compulsive spenders and debtors misuse money and credit in various ways, but their behavior inevitably leads to self-loathing, unhappiness, or broken relationships. Maybe you or someone in your life will recognize one of these 10 negative money personalities.
Here are the 10 most toxic financial personalities who destroy good relationships:
- Cinderella
Cinderella is usually the kind of woman I think of as the “poor gentleman.” They are smart and creative but never seem to be able to earn enough money to do more than just get by. Cinderella usually spends irresponsibly because they expect Prince Charming to save them. Sometimes friends or family may host them or help them by providing food, shelter, and kindness.
- The rebel
Spending was a form of tantrum for Dave. His parents constantly complained that they could not make ends meet. “We Can’t Afford It” was their theme song. Teenager Dave was hanging out with kids from wealthy homes. He became increasingly frustrated that he couldn’t have what they did. He justified it by saying, “I’m as good as the next guy. Why shouldn’t I spend?” Dave’s anger toward his parents’ philosophy led him to a life of compulsive spending as if money burned a hole in his pocket.
- The used rose
Tony was like a “used rose.” She filled her house with items, all purchased at thrift stores and swap meets. She justified it by saying, “If I buy this item, my life will miraculously change. I only spent $8 instead of $80.” As a result, she spent all the money she had saved to be able to attend school. Toni learned this attitude from her mother, who also loved to shop, but forbade buying anything new.
- Savior
Rescuers help others in need. Olivia wasted her inheritance because she couldn’t resist helping people with bad luck stories. Her family raised her to believe that altruism was important. A good person gives to those in need, but because she secretly believed she didn’t deserve to feel better than most people, she didn’t take care of her own needs first.
- Status seeker
These people use money to impress others. Sometimes they come from poor families and spend compulsively to create a life they have never lived before. Debbie’s excuse was that she needed expensive clothes because she was dating a man whose lifestyle involved going out to fashionable places. She had to properly search for acceptance. Debbie imagined that credit cards weren’t real money, and since there was still cash in her bank account, she could charge as much as she wanted.
- The magical child
Gail and Gary were having a good time with friends. When they faced bankruptcy, Gail asked Gary what they should do. He replied, “Let’s stay there and pray to God.” The magical child prefers to deny reality and imagines that his problem will solve itself wonderfully or miraculously. This couple had a “when my ship comes in” mentality, even though they liked to live and spend as if their ship was already in port.
- Reckless
Richard owned a successful business and loved living life on the edge. He bought an expensive house and generally enjoyed a wealthy lifestyle. Addicted to the excitement, he would hold his breath every month when salaries came due, fearing he wouldn’t have enough money to pay his employees.
- The doll
Sybil grew up in a wealthy family where the women spent most of their time doing good in society and life was fun. “I think the first two words I learned were charge,” she said. Her family treated the women like children, gave them allowances, and never taught them how to invest, earn, or act responsibly with money. As a result, today Sybil is penniless, helpless, and depressed.
- The needy, greedy child
Mary did not feel love as a child. As she grew up and started earning money, she became the permissive mother she never had before. When she felt emotionally needy, she acted greedy and spent her money on herself, satisfying her desire for rich food and expensive shoes. As a result, I battled compulsive overeating and compulsive spending.
- The spoiled brat
Diane loved to shop. When she ran out of money or felt so guilty that she couldn’t charge, she would sometimes steal small items from the store because the cravings were so strong that she felt powerless to say no. Diane’s parents treated her like a princess and never said no to her. Not only could she get what she wanted, but her parents also gave her clothes and toys before she wished. Diane’s mother was like a wonderful fairy godmother, producing beautiful things and anticipating her wishes.
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