I recently watched a Ted talk by a woman named Tammy Lally, called Let's Get Honest About Our Money Problems, and it was powerful. A word of warning if you watch it - it speaks of the suicide of her brother from money shame. You can watch the video here: Tammy Lally TED Talk

Society constantly tells us how we should be spending, saving, and investing, and it’s no wonder we often feel disconnected from our own financial well-being. The shame around money can make us feel like we’re failing, even when we’re doing our best.

Healing from money shame isn’t about suddenly becoming rich or perfect with finances—it’s about choosing to approach money with a sense of self-compassion and reclaiming control over your financial journey.

Here’s why overcoming money shame is not just important, but transformative.

1. Letting Go of the Fear and Shame

Money shame isn’t just about numbers; it’s emotional. For many of us, money shame comes from deep-rooted beliefs that we’re “not good enough” or “don’t deserve to be financially secure.” This emotional weight can hold us back from making empowered decisions. But the truth is, the first step to financial healing is recognising that money doesn’t define your worth. It’s just a tool—and you have the power to use it the way you see fit.

Tammy Lally’s video on breaking free from money shame reminds us that these feelings are not permanent. By shifting how we view ourselves and our finances, we can start to release the shame and embrace our financial journeys with compassion.

2. Rewriting the Story Around Money

Society teaches us that financial success is all about accumulation, the more we have, the more worthy we are. But defining financial freedom by the amount of money we have only fuels shame. Instead, redefining "enough" becomes the key. "Enough" is not about excess, but about sufficiency—having what you need to live comfortably, care for those you love, and invest in your future.

It’s time to stop comparing our financial journey to others and start focusing on what “enough” looks like for us.

3. Building Financial Freedom with Intention

Overcoming money shame also means rethinking how we spend. Financial freedom doesn’t come from endless accumulation—it comes from spending with intention. When you start spending in line with your values, you not only reduce the anxiety around money, but you also start to build the financial future you truly want.

In South Africa, where many of us face financial uncertainty, this is crucial. When you align your spending with your values, you are building more than just wealth; you are creating a life that reflects your true priorities.

4. Embracing Self-Compassion

Healing money shame is a process, and it requires a shift in how we view ourselves. Tammy Lally’s video highlights the importance of showing ourselves the same compassion we would extend to others. It’s about recognising that mistakes are a part of the learning process, not a reflection of who we are as people. Once we stop judging ourselves for past financial missteps, we can move forward with more confidence and peace.

5. Creating a Life Aligned with Your Values

Financial freedom isn’t about becoming perfect with money—it’s about creating a life that reflects your core values. It’s about understanding what really matters to you: is it spending more time with family? Investing in your health? Or creating a legacy for future generations? Once you start making decisions that align with these values, money becomes a tool for building the life you want, not something to fear.

Your Next Step: Start Today

Overcoming money shame doesn’t happen overnight, but it begins with one simple shift: recognising that you are worthy of financial peace. Start small by changing the way you talk to yourself about money, making space for your own needs, and reflecting on what enough looks like for you.

We have the power to heal our relationship with money—not by denying its importance, but by using it with intention and grace.

Are you ready to break free from money shame? Start today—be kind to yourself, redefine your financial goals, and take the first step toward reclaiming your financial power.