One of America’s big name money coaches, Jean Chatzky, has released a new book on financial independence called, The Difference. I haven’t read it yet because as of today at 11am until 10:59am on Saturday, she is offering a free download of her book at Oprah.com! I think this book will have great ideas on how to change from living paycheck to paycheck to living in comfort.

The Difference consists of 8 key elements:

1. Happiness and Optimism

Some people think money buys happiness, but according to Chatzky, being optimistic leads you to success because it enables you to solve problems, create ideas, consider long range consequences and come back and try again if you miss the first time.

2. Resiliance

This refers to the ability to recover and keep it moving; acknowledge your mistakes, let them go and turn your focus to things that you can control. Overcoming obstacles will always be a trait that leads to success.

3. Connectedness

This element deals with social capital; the asset created when relationships between people lead to positive action. Make time for people and put yourself forward as a leader. One connection could change your life!

4. Passion

According to Chatzky, passion is the key element that moves people from a life of financial struggle, to one of financial success. If you feel as though it may not be feasible to do what you love, she wants people to know you can learn to love what you do.

5. Intuition

Over the years of past experiences and patterns, information tells us that if one thing happens, something else is likely to follow and we feel these in our gut! Listen to these hunches and don’t search for them, allow them to come naturally.

6. Habitual Saving

I always used to feel the need to spend every penny I made, but when I put my financial goals down on paper, I found joy in saving. You don’t necessarily have to penny pinch, but finding a balanced way to reach your goals will make you financially stable in no time!

7. Invest

When I read The Difference‘s snippet on Investing, it reminded me of last week’s article from Brad Lamb on Investing. If you missed it, CLICK HERE to read. The wealthy understand the need to take risks in the market, in good times and in bad, in order to make their money work as hard as they do.

8. Gratitude

The Karma Kickback. Be thankful for everything you receive as a result of your hard work and in return, give back in the little ways you can. Volunteering can really put things in perspective for you. When you think of your job as a gift, you focus on what life might be if you didn’t have it.

Don’t forget to download your free copy of this book today and remember, finance isn’t the easiest thing to think about but if you face it and set goals, you WILL be much better off in your future! 

PS It’s never too early and it’s NEVER late!!!!

xoxo, 

Lowe