What is money? For some it's a blessing, for some it's a curse, and for others it's simply a means of exchange. In one sense, the way you spend money is the irrefutable record of what you value. Watching your expenses over time provides an opportunity to become more present to previously habitual choices. This awareness might be confirming, surprising, or a powerful inducement to change.

The Practice

For one month, keep a rubber band around the bills in your wallet. Place additional rubber bands around your checkbook, credit card, and ATM card. Then, whenever you have to remove one of the rubber bands in order to buy something, use that moment to reflect. Do I really care about what I'm buying? What is its impact on my life as a whole? Would I be better served by using this money in another way?

It's important to note that there's no right or wrong in this exercise. How you spend your money is entirely up to you. So keep your explorations relaxed and light. Let it guide you to your heart's desire.

Raphael Cushnir in How Now