How Breast Cancer Inspired My Financial and Mindset Transformation
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Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Just yesterday, I wrapped up my chemotherapy journey. As I settled into bed, my mind was flooded with fresh ideas and an undeniable urge to pursue new creative projects. It felt like a rebirth, a chance to embrace life with revitalized energy.
Walking to the hospital for my final treatment, I reflected on how fortunate I am to have access to healthcare that my grandmother did not. Something within me has shifted.
Before you jump to conclusions, I’m aware of the need for a step-by-step approach. However, I’m bursting with excitement to explore numerous possibilities!
My aspirations have transformed; I feel more astute, driven, and eager than ever. Perhaps it’s the realization of how precious life is and the value of time that has influenced this change.
One striking insight I’ve gained recently is that we can lead multiple lifetimes. My previous experience running a café and catering business or working in tech startups doesn’t limit my current explorations. I can still consider opening another café, starting a small hotel, or even launching a luxurious spa in Marseille. The possibilities are endless!
If you’re interested in the spa venture, feel free to reach out!
Let me share with you my three financial objectives:
Section 1.1: Acquiring Assets
I know many of you understand that a conventional 9-to-5 role rarely leads to wealth. The secret to achieving financial success lies in "acquiring assets" and generating cash flow. Robert Kiyosaki’s "Rich Dad Poor Dad" introduces the Income Statement Chart, illustrating the financial behaviors of the poor, middle class, and wealthy.
- Poor: Typically shows negative cash flow, with expenses surpassing income.
- Middle Class: Generally presents balanced cash flow but often experiences stagnation as expenses rise with income.
- Rich: Demonstrates substantial positive cash flow through multiple income sources, focusing on investments and income-generating assets.
The wealthy prioritize increasing their cash flow by acquiring appreciating assets like real estate, stocks, or businesses. Kiyosaki emphasizes understanding the difference between assets and liabilities, advocating for a mindset that seeks to acquire income-generating assets.
The notion of utilizing debt to acquire assets is pivotal. By strategically using debt for investments, individuals can build wealth. Kiyosaki also discusses the tax benefits of real estate investments, which can help reduce overall tax burdens.
This straightforward chart fundamentally changed my perspective on money, debt, and banking.
It's crucial to grasp financial literacy and risk management when leveraging debt. My husband and I intend to consult with professionals in our network before making any significant moves.
Subsection 1.1.1: Embracing Multiple Income Streams
The idea of "multiple streams of income" is a familiar one that many bloggers discuss. This concept has always appealed to me, especially the idea of a membership model for recurring revenue. However, I continually grappled with the question: What should I offer? It turns out, if I lack genuine passion for the endeavor, it won't be sustainable long-term.
Having various income streams requires allocating time for diverse tasks. I had to give myself permission to explore this possibility. My ADHD allows me to hyper-focus on tasks, and I’ve discovered that the Pomodoro Technique works remarkably well for me.
In this method, I work for 25 minutes and then take a 5-minute break. After four cycles, I reward myself with a longer break. During these short breaks, I check emails or social media, allowing me to juggle multiple tasks efficiently.
Francesco Cirillo, the creator of the Pomodoro Technique, recognized that time can be a friend rather than a source of stress. This approach has helped me enhance my productivity.
I’ve shifted my mindset from seeking what’s trendy to focusing on what produces results. Business success is about implementing effective strategies rather than chasing fleeting trends.
Section 1.2: The Pursuit of Passive Income
The third goal is essentially a blend of the first two: achieving passive income. Imagine creating a source of income that flows effortlessly, benefiting your family for years to come. By remaining focused on my financial objectives and embracing the long game, I'm confident that both my husband and I can attain this sought-after financial independence.
I’ve gained clarity about my goals, and we're already developing a plan to achieve them. In a future article, I will share the details of my income streams and provide updates on our progress.
As I return to my work, I’m also preparing for the next stage of my treatment. In about 4 to 6 weeks, I’ll begin radiation therapy, which will last for seven weeks.
Feel free to leave any questions or thoughts in the comments! If you’d like to support me, you can buy me a coffee—I'm a fan of oat lattes! To see my life beyond work, follow me on Instagram.
Michelle
Chapter 2: Inspirational Videos
In this chapter, I want to share some videos that have deeply resonated with me during my journey.
Andrea Gibson's story of transformation from anxiety to bliss after cancer serves as a powerful reminder of resilience.
Angie McPherson shares how breast cancer reshaped her life and business mindset, emphasizing the importance of perspective during challenges.