Money and the mind are inextricably entwined.

What moves so many people? Money.

Why do most people work? Money.

What allows for freedom? Money.

What provides anything you’d want? Money.

Or so people think. But there’s just so much emptiness in this outlook.

Sure, if we all had more than enough money, perhaps we would have fewer worries. We’d not lack for material items. Perhaps we’d even quit our jobs.

But that’s not likely what would happen.

Consider tweaking your perception of money—then consequently, the perception of the bigger picture (that is your life). Doing so may just improve your world exponentially.

Money moves people. Indeed, it does. Physically, anyways. It can move us to accept a position, to get out of bed each morning, to produce for others so we may receive a paycheck, right? We’re moved to action, but that is not motivation. Motivation holds deeper purpose. Motivation is fueled by desire, by passion. Be motivated, not simply moved.

People work for money. Of course! We work to pay our bills. But then what? Paying bills is a completion of a necessary task. Yes, that’s good. But instead of the mindset to work for money, work for purpose. We offer most of life’s waking hours toward a job. Wouldn’t life be so much richer if we worked for purpose (and paid the bills)?

Money allows for freedom, we think. Perhaps. But then what? Move to an isolated island to exist Jimmy Buffet-style with margaritas and sunshine? Sure, sign me up. For a while. Then reality would set. For most of us this will never happen, but even if so, it’d be a temporary relief—but not a sustainable solution. Therefore, it’s not freedom. Fulfillment is a necessity. Freedom and fulfillment? They’re like peaches and cream; they just go together.

So how do we get there?

Give your perceptions an honest review. Seek out passion in your work. Create opportunities to explore more areas of interest—at work and outside of work. Make time to expand your world. Doing so, you’ll give back and grow at exponential rates—where it matters most. Within you.

Happiness truly is NOT linked to an abundance of money. Happiness is derived from what’s on your daily to-do lists. And it’s those you allow into your world.

Yes, bills exist. Mortgages must be paid. Bank accounts should grow. But in the big picture of life? It’s your personal well-being and individual growth that brings fulfillment—and a wealthy, healthy life.

That, friends, is living rich.