Why Money is Your Most Valuable Asset
No matter your income level, you should continue to push for more income annually as it is the most important thing in the world. There's a popular notion that suggests time is more valuable than money—after all, you can always earn more money, but you can't recover lost time. While the irreversibility of time is a compelling argument, this line of thinking falls short when we examine the intricate dynamics between time and money in our lives.
First, let's talk about liquidity. Money is an exceptionally liquid asset—you can utilize it instantly to get what you want. Want to avoid the hassle of cooking dinner? Order delivery. Need your house cleaned but don't have the time? Hire a cleaning service. In contrast, time is not as easily exchanged for money. Unless you're actively participating in the gig economy, turning an extra hour into income is not as straightforward.
Statistics reveal a surprising trend among Americans: while only a small percentage earn over $100,000 per year, most still find the time to watch hours of television daily. This underscores the paradox that many people have more time than money, yet they're not necessarily converting that time into earning opportunities.
The notion that money isn't as important as family is a common line of thinking, but it’s worth revisiting. True, a lack of family can lead to loneliness, but if you are a financial disaster, the levels of stress and hardship you'll experience are significantly higher. You can have a loving family, but if you're unable to provide for them, the quality of life for everyone involved decreases. Money, in this context, becomes a tool for enhancing familial well-being.
Lastly, having money offers you the privilege to buy time. By outsourcing tasks that don’t require your direct involvement, you create more time for things that matter—be it family, personal projects, or rest. While time doesn't always offer a straightforward way to earn money, money can certainly buy you time.
While it’s crucial not to neglect other aspects of life, financial security should be your first order of business. Once you've secured that, you're in a better position to improve other facets of your life, whether it's spending time with your family or investing in personal development.
In a world that often downplays the importance of money in favor of other values, it's crucial to recognize money for what it truly is—a highly flexible asset that provides you with options, security, and yes, even time.
