Does money feel like a constant struggle? Like trying to play a game where everyone else seems to know the rules except you.

But what if you could flip the script? What if you could approach money with curiosity, strategy, and even have fun?

Money Is a Game, and the Ultimate Prize is Freedom

The freedom to live a life that lights up your soul. Financial freedom improves your life and lets you help others. It lets you travel, volunteer, and say "No problem" to your dog's $1,200 surgery. To get there, though, you have to master the rules of the game.

The Big Problem

Most people are stressed and desperate. That state of mind blocks them from seeing opportunities. When stress takes over, your brain shifts into survival mode. The subconscious becomes hyper-focused on immediate threats, shutting out creativity and problem-solving. This state of mind makes it almost impossible to approach money with the playful curiosity required to win the game.

But what if you could leverage your financial stress as a starting point rather than a roadblock? What if, instead of staying trapped in fear, you approach money like a game, one that rewards curiosity, strategy, and persistence?

There Are Two Types of Players in the Money Game. Which Are You? 

Remember playing Monopoly as a kid? There were usually two types of players. Player One would watch their 14-year-old cousin Billy buy up properties early in the game and stack them with houses and hotels. By the fourth or fifth time around the board, Player One would land on Billy’s properties, get wiped out, and sulk on the sidelines, convinced they’d never win. Player One’s strategy was essentially "throw the dice and hope."

Player Two, on the other hand, paid attention. They noticed what Billy was doing and started buying properties of their own. Sure, they might have hesitated at first, passing on expensive properties because they seemed risky. Maybe they avoided building early and got taken out after a few rounds. But instead of giving up, Player Two kept learning. They observed, adjusted their strategy, and improved their game. Not because they had to, but because they enjoyed playing. Plus, they wanted to see the look on Billy’s face when they finally made him mortgage Boardwalk. True story ;-)

This is exactly how you need to approach building wealth. Winning at the money game requires adopting a playful, curious mindset and being willing to learn from both successes and failures.

Strategies for Mastering the Money Game

Here’s the good news: every skill you need to master the money game is learnable. By studying the strategies of successful “players” and applying their principles, you can level up your financial game.

1. Be Curious, Not Defeated:

An investing guru once said they journal every trade and review their wins and losses weekly to refine their strategy. A successful content creator spent six months studying headlines and titles to master the art of the hook. The owner of a thriving landscaping business makes it a point to talk to clients before and after every job to uncover unmet emotional needs. These individuals all treat their craft as a game, constantly experimenting and learning.

2. Start Small but Think Big:

Like the Monopoly player who starts buying properties early, you don’t need to go all-in immediately. Start with small steps, like saving a little to invest or learning how to negotiate lower payments on big expenses. Over time, as you gain confidence, you can take bigger, calculated risks. Remember: even the longest game starts with a roll of the dice.

3. Learn from Every Round:

Journaling isn’t just for traders. Keep track of your financial decisions—what worked, what didn’t, and why. By regularly reviewing your “gameplay,” you’ll identify patterns and opportunities for growth. Think of it as your personal playbook for future wins.

4. Reframe Failure:

Just like losing a round of Monopoly doesn’t mean you’ll never win, a financial setback is simply part of the learning process. The key is to approach each loss with curiosity. What went wrong? What can you do differently next time? And remember, every great Monopoly player knows: sometimes you mortgage your railroads to survive, but you keep rolling.

5. Focus on Your “Why:”

Financial freedom isn’t just about having money; it’s about what that money allows you to do. Keep your “why” at the forefront of your mind, whether it’s providing for your family, pursuing a passion, or giving back to your community. This will help you stay motivated and keep the game fun.

Don’t Let Stress Win the Game

Most people stay stuck in stress mode, convincing themselves they don’t have time to learn or experiment. But the truth is, you can’t win the money game from a place of fear. The only way to break free from patterns of financial struggle is to shift your mindset and approach money with curiosity and strategy.

So, the next time you’re faced with a financial challenge, ask yourself: What can I learn from this? What small step can I take today to move closer to financial freedom?

Treat money like the game that it is, you’ll not only master it, you’ll have fun along the way. And when you’re having fun, winning becomes inevitable!

Share this with someone you love who's ready to WIN the money game!

Kristen