In a recent conversation with Dr. Daniel Crosby, the author of “The Soul of Wealth,” I was fortunate to delve into themes not only from his latest book but also gain deeper insights into life’s fundamental needs. While we primarily discussed the contents of “The Soul of Wealth,” Dr. Crosby shared a powerful framework that speaks to enriching our lives in meaningful ways: believing, belonging, and becoming. These three elements serve not just as points of reflection for the New Year but as guiding principles that can profoundly influence our health, happiness, and financial well-being.
The first of these core tenets, believing, emphasizes the necessity of holding a conviction or faith in something beyond oneself. As Dr. Arthur Brooks suggests, belief provides a framework for navigating life’s complexities and challenges. In “The Soul of Wealth,” Crosby aligns with this idea, integrating the PERMA model developed by Dr. Martin Seligman, which highlights the importance of meaning and purpose in human flourishing. Our beliefs, particularly in times of adversity, help to contextualize frustrations and greater life challenges. Dr. Crosby’s insights also highlight how our financial decisions often reveal our true beliefs, suggesting that analyzing how we spend can lead to a greater alignment between our financial choices and our core values.
Belonging, the second critical component, underscores the innate human need for connection with others. Brené Brown articulates this beautifully, stating that love and belonging are fundamental needs for all individuals. Crosby notes that if happiness derives from love and feeling loved, then our spending habits should ideally reflect that. Research indicates that financial resources allocated towards experiences—especially shared ones—yield greater joy than material purchases. This concept dramatically resonates with my personal experience during the holidays, when I proposed to my sons that we dedicate part of our Christmas budget to a family experience rather than tangible gifts. This shift not only strengthened our familial bonds but has become a cherished holiday tradition.
Transitioning to the third aspect—becoming—this idea focuses on personal growth and transformation. The relationship between what we believe and how we connect with others shapes who we are becoming as individuals. It raises critical questions regarding our identity and purpose in the world: Who do we aspire to be, both for ourselves and for those we care about? Citing Abraham Maslow and the importance of self-actualization, Crosby illustrates that becoming is not just a personal pursuit. It is a dynamic process influenced by our beliefs and our sense of belonging to a community. Recognizing this is vital to understanding that neglecting our fundamental needs can hinder our personal and financial growth.
Dr. Crosby’s insights compel us to consider three specific questions as we contemplate our goals for the coming year: What do you believe? Who do you belong to? And who are you becoming? These questions aid in identifying our life’s direction and ensuring that our actions align with our desires for growth. They prompt introspection about our beliefs and connections while reinforcing the need to relate our financial decisions to our broader life ambitions. Understanding the interplay of these three elements can inspire us to make more informed choices about our resources and investments in 2025.
Ultimately, “The Soul of Wealth” transcends the idea of financial literacy, inviting readers to explore their emotional and spiritual aspirations alongside material wealth. The three aspects of believing, belonging, and becoming illustrate how human experience is deeply interconnected, not merely a sequence of isolated accomplishments or assets. By embracing this mental model, we can better align our lives with our values, fostering deeper fulfillment, stronger relationships, and a greater sense of purpose.
In conclusion, as you prepare for 2025, take the time to engage with Crosby’s compelling triad of beliefs, connections, and growth. Challenge yourself to rethink your financial practices in a manner that genuinely reflects what you cherish and aspire to achieve. These principles offer a blueprint not only for a financially sound future but for a more meaningful, joyful existence as well. Use this framework to construct a fulfilling life that is rich in experiences, relationships, and a sense of purpose, ensuring that your path forward is deeply rewarding.
