“We don’t have money for that.”
“Money doesn’t grow on trees.”
“Rich people are greedy.”
“We must save every paisa.”
These are statements many of us heard growing up. Harmless at first glance, but deeply influential. These beliefs—what we call money scripts—can quietly shape our financial behavior well into adulthood. Even without realizing it, we often make decisions today based on financial messages absorbed in our early years.
What are money scripts
The term “money scripts” was coined by financial psychologist Dr. Brad Klontz. It refers to the unconscious beliefs we form about money, often during childhood. These beliefs are shaped by family dynamics, cultural values, religion, socioeconomic background, and personal experiences.
Money scripts operate like mental programs—guiding how we spend, save, invest, and even feel about money. And just like computer code, some scripts are helpful, while others are outdated or even harmful.
Common ones
In India, family plays a central role in financial behavior. Here are some common money scripts that many of us have grown up with:
Money Avoidance: “Too much money makes people arrogant.”
This belief can lead to guilt around earning or desiring wealth.
Money Worship: “If I just had more money, all my problems would be solved.”
This script leads to overwork and impulsive purchases.
Money Status: “More money = more respect.”
This belief drives people to spend beyond their means to signal success.
Money Vigilance: “Always save for a rainy day.”
Taken to the extreme, this leads to chronic under-spending and fear of investing.
Real-Life Stories
Rohit, 35, an IT professional: Despite earning a six-figure salary, Rohit couldn’t bring himself to invest in mutual funds. His father lost money in a chit fund scam in the 90s. His script? “All investments are risky.”
Result: Years of inflation eroded his savings.
Meena, 28, a graphic designer: Raised in a frugal household, Meena feels guilty buying anything for herself—even when she can afford it. Her script? “Spending on yourself is wasteful.”
Result: Burnout, despite a healthy bank balance.
Where do they come from
Money scripts are not your fault. They are coping mechanisms developed during times of scarcity, trauma, or even privilege. They made sense then, but may no longer serve you now.
If your parents struggled with money, you may overcompensate with excessive saving or fear-based decisions.
If you were raised in abundance, you may struggle to appreciate the value of money or delay wealth-building habits.
These scripts often operate unconsciously, meaning we don’t even realize they are influencing us.
Why it matters
Your money behavior isn’t just about income or math—it’s about mindset. Financial goals get delayed not just because of bad planning, but because of emotional blockages.
You may avoid investing due to fear of loss.
You might overspend to equate money with self-worth.
You may never feel “secure,” even with savings, due to a script of scarcity.
Rewrite your script
Identify Your Script: Start by reflecting on what you heard and observed about money as a child.
Question the Script: Is this belief helping or hurting me today?
Create a New Narrative: Replace outdated beliefs with empowering ones.
Seek Professional Guidance: Talking to a financial planner or therapist can bring clarity and healing.
Final Thoughts
India is going through a massive financial transition. We’re the first generation balancing our parents’ frugal approach with today’s consumer-driven world. Navigating this requires not just financial literacy—but emotional intelligence around money.
Understanding your money scripts is the first step to financial freedom. Because true wealth is not just about the numbers—it’s about how you feel about them.
So the next time you hesitate to invest, overspend on a whim, or feel stressed about money—pause and ask yourself: “Whose voice is this? Mine—or my childhood’s?”
