Happy New Year! The time of year when we wish one another good health, happiness, prosperity- though not necessarily in that order. But January often brings the letdown of a busy, exciting holiday season relegated to memories, with incoming bills being unwelcome intruders. Concerns about business success in the coming season, anticipation of the tax man in April, or financial worries in general may preoccupy our minds. It seems timely to think about the meaning of money in our lives: the myths, conflicts and patterns absorbed from families of origin that can profoundly influence adult relationships, the ability to fulfill dreams, and emotional and physical well-being.

I've learned from my own and client's struggles and conflicts what a core issue money represents in our psyches, relationships, and all aspects of our lives. Even in the confidential setting of the therapy hour, clients find it easier to talk about sexual matters than money matters. Money represents the ultimate taboo!

Money can be a symbol for violence-withheld or rejected-or a symbol for love-offered and accepted. In families money may be used as a secret weapon, manipulating conflicts about sex, love, or power. Husbands and wives, parents and children, siblings-we're all prey to the love, anger, envy, compassion or worries about money in these complex relationships.

Many authors have written about prosperity-including money, success, power, and fame as being interrelated with spirituality, becoming our inner as well as our outer work. (Chopra, Ross)

Having a harmonious relationship with one's finances is part of the mind/body/spirit connection to living a balanced and healthy life. The prosperity principle is an attitude about life, and consciousness of abundance can become a self-fulfilling prophecy, as can consciousness of scarcity. How can one accomplish this shift? Beyond reading available books on the subject or finding a trustworthy financial advisor, by illuminating, understanding and then destroying destructive myths or childhood beliefs that may block the path to prosperity.

Dr. Sandy Plone, Clinical Psychologist, specializes in helping others work through blocks towards prosperity and creative fulfillment. For information or confidential questions call (310) 979-7473.

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