Tired of Money Anxiety? Meet Your New Best Friend: The Reverse Clause
Ever heard the term "Reverse Clause"? It's when we put full effort into something while acknowledging that the final outcome is not fully in our control.
As a classic Type A, I get frustrated when a ✨meticulous✨ budget veers off course. Which honestly hasn't served me well when it comes to money management.
For example, my August budget was solid. Every dollar tracked. Then I was admitted to the ER.
I sat by myself in the hospital bed for hours - PICC line inserted, forced to slowww TF down. Thank God for all of the therapy sessions and meditations I've sat through because when you're an anxious type like me, hours of quiet can be irrationally terrifying.
< Insert self-leadership >
I coached myself through my feelings - feeling frustrated at blowing the budget on day 2 of the month. Feeling taken advantage of by a receptionist who collected $2k for "services rendered" before any services were actually rendered. Feeling utterly terrible and just wanting to go home.
I sat with the discomfort without letting my anger or frustration replay on loop in my mind. I released assumptions about others' intentions and judgments about my budget "failing". I let go of expectations about how I was "supposed" to feel and asked my body what it was trying to tell me.
And something magical happened…. As it often does when one surrenders.
The symptoms that brought me in suddenly cleared. I left without medication. The next day Aetna texted me: 25% of our deductible was reimbursed thanks to a billing correction.
I used to subscribe to the "assume the worst & plan for everything" approach, believing I could create my own peace. In reality, it kept me anxious and affected my results. Maybe you relate.
A reverse clause mindset with money can help:
- Lending money, accepting the outcome is out of your hands.
- Choosing investments, knowing returns will fluctuate and resisting the impulse to constantly check balances.
- Setting a budget and adapting to surprises, without self-blame or defeat.
- Giving generously, without fixating on how that gift is used.
- Saving thoughtfully, staying flexible when circumstances shift.
Embracing the reverse clause creates peace and fosters resilience in financial life. Reach out if you're seeking an understanding of how to implement this practice into your life.
