Every day, you're faced with making hundreds of micro decisions in your business, from how much to charge to whether you open up that email that has an invoice attached to it. We live life on autopilot, In fact, most of the choices that we make each day are driven by a part of our brain that we're not even aware of! And when it comes to money, your inner child might still be influencing your financial decisions more than you realise. 

Meet the Version of You Who Learned About Money Before You Could Even Speak

Your inner child represents the core of your psyche, formed during the ages of 0-7. It's the subconscious part of you that absorbed messages about money, success, and self-worth from your environment. This aspect of yourself continues to influence your adult behaviours, often without your conscious awareness. As kids, we don't have the rational faculties to process everything logically. Instead, we form emotional responses that shape our beliefs and values. Have you ever wondered why certain financial situations trigger strong emotional responses? Your inner child might be speaking. 

Five Signs Your Inner Child is Still Running Your Money

Think back to your childhood. Were there moments when money seemed scarce or when financial stability was threatened? These early experiences create a blueprint for our relationship with money. If you grew up in a household where money was a constant source of stress, you might find yourself anxious about finances even when objectively secure. Understanding these imprints is necessary in order to reprogram your money mindset.Here are five ways you can tell if your inner child might be managing your finances;

Avoidance of Financial Responsibilities

Do you find yourself dodging financial tasks like taxes or bills? This is a classic sign of inner child influence. Avoidance often stems from anxiety, and tackling these fears requires self-compassion and gradual exposure to financial tasks.

Impulsive Spending

Do you buy things on a whim to soothe emotions? This is your inner child seeking immediate gratification. Placing a gap between the urge and the purchase—like a 24-hour rule—can help rein in these impulses.

Conflicting Desires

Does your inner child shy away from the responsibilities that come with financial success? If there’s a tug-of-war between wanting success and fearing its demands, it’s time to have a heart-to-heart with your inner child and understand her fears.

Spending for Self-Worth

Are your purchases tied to status or acceptance? Let's separate self-worth from financial status. Your wealth shouldn't define your value.

Balancing Play and Responsibility

Are you all work and no play? Money isn't just for hoarding or future security. It's also a tool for joy and experiences. Make room for fun and creativity to satisfy both your adult goals and your inner child's need for play.

What Your Body and Bank Account Actually Need From You Now

You can heal your relationship with money and your inner child. Start by observing your financial patterns without judgment. What triggers impulsive spending? When do you feel anxious about money? These observations can help you begin to understand your inner child's needs and fears.

As you become more aware, consider what your inner child needs to feel secure and heard. Perhaps it's reassurance that you're safe and valued, regardless of your bank balance. Maybe it's permission to enjoy life while also being responsible.