Have you got enough money?

What does that even mean?

Photo by Fabian Blank on Unsplash

“Annual income twenty pounds, annual expenditure nineteen six, result happiness. Annual income twenty pounds, annual expenditure twenty pound ought and six, result misery.” Charles Dickens

This November, we’re continuing our gentle exploration of the “life tanks” in the Heart Leap universe—those vital resources that keep us moving: love, energy, money, and time. This week, we’re focusing on the money life tank, a resource that’s as emotionally charged as it is essential. Money often represents more than just currency—it’s security, freedom, self-worth, and sometimes even love. But here’s the question: what does “enough” money really look like for you?

At Heart Leap, I am writing about the leap to live a simple, happy, creative life where it’s not about struggling and striving but being able to be more present, to write, to create, to have fun. I made the leap from London to the wild coast of Northumberland three years ago and am building the foundations of a life that can sustain me - and finances are a huge part of that.

So this week, let’s explore money and finances.

What does 'Not Enough' money look like?

I think many of us know what ‘not enough money’ feels like. Maybe the gnawing stress of seeing your bank balance dip lower and lower, the fear of unexpected expenses that could tip everything over, the credit card bills that never seem to get paid off. It’s delaying things you truly need—a new winter coat, a trip to the dentist, or a small indulgence you’ve dreamed of—because there’s simply no financial room. Living with “not enough” feels like walking a tightrope with no net, where survival becomes the priority, and joy feels like an impossible luxury. I know when my son was little and I was a single parent, I found it very difficult. I was self employed, living from pay cheque to pay cheque and trying to afford childcare was a big stretch. It was a worrying and lonely time. There’s a lot of shame attached to not having enough money so it’s hard to ask for help. Luckily, I was the part of a great village mums’ network who would pick up my son after school when I was working and I would return the favour when I was off. (I love my tribe of supportive women)

What does 'Enough' money feel like?

For me, enough money is stability. It’s knowing your bills are paid, your fridge is full, and there’s even room for the occasional treat with a modest buffer of savings if the car breaks down. Enough feels like breathing space, where money becomes a tool for support rather than a source of worry.

What does 'More Than Enough' money look like?

For me, more than enough is freedom. It’s the ability to say “yes” to experiences that light you up—a spontaneous holiday, an investment in your passion project, or the chance to help someone you care about without hesitation. (The joy of being able to pay for my son’s driving lessons to get him in the driving seat of his own life both metaphorically and otherwise.)

But having more than enough can also bring its own questions. How do you manage it wisely? How do you align it with your values? And, perhaps most importantly, does it bring the happiness you thought it would?

What to explore this week:

Define Your Essentials: How much money do you need to feel safe, supported, and happy around money? Is it a savings cushion, fewer financial commitments, or simply a feeling of control?

Reframe Abundance: Sometimes, having “enough” is more about recognising the richness in what you already have than adding more to the pile. Where in your life do you already feel wealthy?

Set Boundaries: Having a clear sense of “enough” can protect you from burnout, overspending, or endlessly chasing goals that don’t serve you.

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Journal Prompt

Think about a time when you felt you didn’t have enough money. How did it affect your sense of security and self-worth? Now reflect on a moment when you had just enough—or more than enough. What changed for you emotionally or creatively in those moments? What does it feel like to have more than enough?

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This week, let’s reframe how we think about money—not as a measure of worth, but as a resource to sustain the life we truly want. What does enough mean for you?

P.s I am delighted to announce our masterclass this month is with top coach Mandy Lehto and creator of the ‘Enough’ podcast. Put Tuesday 26th November 1pm in your diary and join us for a discussion of ‘enough’.