Have you ever found yourself searching for answers to questions like, “Why can’t I save money?” or “How do I stop living paycheck to paycheck?” If so, you’re not alone. In my latest episode of the Wealth Para Todos podcast, I take a deep dive into the limiting money beliefs that shaped my financial journey and how I began shifting my mindset to build financial security.

The Power of Money Beliefs

Money beliefs are often formed in childhood and reinforced through personal experiences, cultural expectations, and societal norms. For years, I operated under a set of financial beliefs that kept me stuck, unaware that they were shaping my decisions and limiting my financial security. It wasn’t until 2019—when I got seriously ill and started my financial literacy journey—that I realized I could rewrite my money story.

In this episode, I explore eight (or maybe more!) of the most common limiting beliefs that might be holding you back, too.

1. “Some People Are Born with Money, and Some Aren’t”

Growing up as a child of immigrants, I saw financial security as something you were born into, not something you could build. This belief stopped me from learning about investing and saving because I assumed wealth was predetermined. But financial security isn’t about luck—it’s about knowledge and intentional actions.

2. “Avoid Credit Cards at All Costs”

Like many of us raised in working-class families, I was taught that credit cards were dangerous. While debt can be harmful when mismanaged, avoiding credit entirely can limit financial growth. Learning to leverage credit responsibly can open doors to financial opportunities.

3. “The Only Way to Make More Money Is by Trading Time for It”

From my teenage years through college, I worked multiple jobs, believing that income was directly tied to hours worked. I didn’t realize that passive income—through investing or entrepreneurship—could create financial security without burnout.

4. “I Can’t Rely on Anyone Financially”

Hyper-independence can feel empowering, but it can also be isolating. I believed I had to handle everything on my own, which made it difficult to collaborate or share financial responsibilities. True financial growth often comes from interdependence and shared resources.

5. “The Path to Financial Security Is Buying a Home”

For many first-gen wealth builders, homeownership is seen as the ultimate financial goal. But in cities like Los Angeles and New York, where housing is expensive, prioritizing homeownership over other financial strategies—like investing in retirement accounts—can be limiting.

6. “Keep Expenses Low No Matter What”

I was obsessed with keeping my expenses low, even at the cost of my well-being. Living in unsafe neighborhoods, sacrificing basic comforts, and avoiding spending on self-care were all consequences of this mindset. Financial security isn’t just about spending less—it’s about spending intentionally.

7. “Money Is Meant to Be Spent”

While money is a tool to support our well-being, I once struggled with saving. Anytime I had more than $10,000 saved, I felt like I was holding onto too much. I didn’t understand the importance of emergency funds, sinking funds, or investing. Now, I know money isn’t just meant to be spent—it’s meant to be saved and invested, too.

How to Start Rewriting Your Money Story

Beliefs don’t change overnight, but awareness is the first step. If any of these beliefs resonate with you, start questioning them. Ask yourself:

• Where did this belief come from?
• Is it serving my financial goals?
• What new information can I seek out to challenge it?

My journey to financial security started with financial literacy—reading books, listening to different perspectives, and taking small, intentional steps. If you’re ready to do the same, I encourage you to get curious, seek out new financial education, and surround yourself with people who challenge your current money beliefs.

Join the Conversation

If this blog post resonated with you, let’s continue the conversation! Follow me on Instagram at @WealthParaTodos for more money mindset shifts. And if you’re ready to take the next step, consider working with me as your money and self-care coach.

In the next episode, I’ll share how I became debt-free before 33—including the extreme measures I tried, the lessons I learned, and how I built sustainable wealth without burning out. Stay tuned!

Remember: Your wellness is essential to the collective.

Disclaimer: The information shared in this blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended as professional financial or medical advice. Please consult with a licensed financial advisor or other qualified professional for personalized guidance.