If you’ve ever felt anxious opening a credit card statement or avoided checking your bank account balance, you’re not alone. I’ve spoken with hundreds of people who’ve done the same. And as a financial advisor, I’ve seen how this kind of avoidance doesn’t just create financial strain—it wears you down emotionally, too.
72% of Americans report feeling stressed about money at least some time in the prior month. – PsychologyToday
Avoiding your finances might seem harmless in the moment, but the cost of that avoidance can be life-changing. Let’s talk about what happens when we avoid facing our financial realities—and the freedom that comes when we choose a new path.
What Is Financial Avoidance?
Hiding from the Numbers
Financial avoidance is exactly what it sounds like: ignoring your money situation. That might mean not opening bills, putting off retirement planning, or refusing to look at your bank statements. It can even show up in more subtle ways, like telling yourself “I’m just not good with money.” Ignoring retirement planning responsibilities can delay your ability to retire comfortably and confidently.
Why Do We Do It?
For many of us, money is tied to shame. Maybe you grew up in a home where money was always tight. Maybe you’ve made some mistakes—overspending, racking up credit card debt, or investing in something that didn’t work out. That emotional weight can be paralyzing.
The Emotional Toll of Avoiding Finances
Stress That Doesn’t Go Away
Here’s the truth: avoiding your finances doesn’t make the stress disappear. It only delays it—and often makes it worse. Clients have told me they feel anxious all the time, even when they’re not actively thinking about money. That low-grade anxiety becomes a constant hum in the background of life.
Shame, Guilt, and Even Relationship Strain
When we avoid money matters, shame tends to build. “Why can’t I figure this out?” “How did I let it get this bad?” And if you’re in a relationship, that unspoken stress can create distance. Couples often fight about money not because of numbers, but because of fear and uncertainty.
The Financial Consequences of Avoidance
Missed Opportunities
One of the saddest parts of financial avoidance is how it robs people of time and potential. The longer you wait to start saving or investing, the harder it becomes to build long-term wealth. Compounding only works when you give it time. Proactive wealth management services can help you start building and protecting your assets, no matter your age or stage.
Debt That Grows Quietly
Late fees, interest charges, credit damage… these costs add up quickly. I’ve seen people avoid a small credit card balance, only to wake up months later to a much bigger problem. Strategic tax planning can help reduce financial strain and avoid unnecessary penalties or surprises.
No Clear Financial Plan
Avoidance makes it hard to create a comprehensive financial planning strategy that aligns with your goals.There’s no roadmap—only fog. And without a plan, every decision feels reactive instead of strategic.
Facing Your Finances: Where Freedom Begins
Awareness is the First Step
I always tell my clients: we can’t fix what we won’t face. The first and most powerful step is simply to look. Look at your accounts. Look at your spending. Look at what’s working—and what’s not. There’s so much power in data when you’re not afraid of it.
Create a Judgment-Free Zone
Let go of the shame. Seriously. You are not your credit score. You are not your past mistakes. I work with people every day who are rewriting their money story. You can too.
Building a Relationship with Your Money
Start Small, Start Simple
You don’t need a full-blown financial plan overnight. Start with a few small wins. Track your expenses for one week. Cancel a subscription you don’t use. Set up a savings account and put in $20. It’s about progress, not perfection. Over time, small steps can build toward a clear retirement income planning strategy that provides lasting peace of mind.
Bring in Support
Speaking of small steps, one of the easiest things you can do is pick up the phone. You don’t have to do this alone. In fact, I strongly recommend you don’t. Working with a professional who offers fiduciary financial services can help you navigate your finances with confidence and care. You can schedule a complimentary consultation by calling us at (619) 640-2622, or schedule anytime here.
The Freedom on the Other Side
Clarity and Confidence
When you confront your finances head‑on, the fog lifts. No more second‑guessing your budget or hoping a cash influx will somehow solve everything. Instead, you base every decision on real numbers and clear priorities. That level of insight builds genuine confidence—you know exactly where you stand, what’s working, and where to focus next.
A Renewed Sense of Control
Financial avoidance makes you feel powerless; it leaves you at the mercy of surprises—unexpected bills, market swings, or credit card statements that make your heart race. But every time you take even a small step—reviewing your balances, setting up an automatic saving plan, or cutting an unneeded subscription—you reclaim a bit of control. Over time, these deliberate actions transform you from a passive reactor into the active director of your financial life. And once you’re steering, everything changes. You’re no longer at the mercy of your money—you’re using it to build the future you want.
It’s Never Too Late to Begin
I’ve worked with people in their 20s, 50s, even 70s, who’ve made incredible changes by choosing to stop avoiding and start engaging. No matter where you are, it’s not too late, and with our team’s expertise, we can help you make up for lost time. Your financial freedom story can start today.
FAQs
1. Why do I keep avoiding looking at my bank account?
Avoidance often comes from fear or shame. Facing your finances can feel overwhelming, but it’s the first step to reducing stress and taking back control.
2. Can avoiding money really affect my mental health?
Absolutely. Financial avoidance can lead to chronic anxiety, guilt, and even depression. Addressing your money situation helps improve your emotional well-being, too.
3. What’s a simple first step to stop avoiding my finances?
Start by checking your balances and writing down all your monthly expenses. Awareness is the foundation of any financial plan.
4. How do I deal with the guilt of past financial mistakes?
Let it go. Everyone makes mistakes, and no amount of regret will change the past. What matters is what you do next. Use your experience to guide better decisions going forward.
5. When should I get help from a financial advisor?
If you feel overwhelmed, unsure, or stuck, now is a great time to reach out. An advisor can help you create a plan and support you without judgment.
You Deserve Better
If you’re avoiding your finances right now, I want you to hear this: you are not broken, you’re not bad with money, and you’re not alone. You have the power to create a new relationship with your finances—one rooted in honesty, clarity, and peace of mind. It’s not always easy, but I promise you it’s worth it.
Let’s stop hiding. Let’s start thriving. You deserve a life of financial freedom, and I’m here to help you build it.
Schedule your free consultation today by calling (619) 640-2622 or by clicking here.
