Money With Meaning: How Living by Your Values Can Help You Build Real Wealth By Lindsay Hollinger

Let’s be real: we’re all trying to figure out how to make it—whether that means building a business, saving for a first home, or just getting to a place where money doesn’t feel so stressful.

But what if I told you that the smartest thing you can do with your money isn’t about getting the perfect investment or making more? What if the real key to building wealth and peace of mind is living with purpose—and aligning your money with what actually matters to you?

Wait… What Does “Living With Purpose” Even Mean?

It’s simple: it means getting clear on your values—what you care about, what kind of life you want to lead—and then making your financial decisions based on that.

When you do this, your money becomes a tool, not a source of stress. You’re not just spending randomly or saving because someone told you to. You’re making choices that support your version of a good life.

Here’s what that might look like:

• Spending on what brings joy and meaning, not on what social media says you should have
• Saving for freedom, whether that’s quitting a toxic job, taking a sabbatical, or starting a creative side hustle
• Investing in alignment with your goals—because long-term peace > short-term hype
• Giving back, because generosity is powerful (and you don’t have to be “rich” to start)

Money Isn’t Just Math—It’s Personal

You don’t need a finance degree or a million-dollar inheritance to start building wealth. What you do need is self-awareness. And a plan that reflects your life, your values, and your dreams.

For example, maybe you value independence. That might mean building an emergency fund, negotiating better pay, or starting your own business.

Maybe you care about family, or travel, or sustainability. Once you know what really matters, you’ll find it’s way easier to say no to things that don’t serve you—and yes to things that do.

Why This Matters Especially for Women

Let’s face it: for a long time, women were left out of the money conversation. But now? We’re leading it.
We’re earning more, building wealth, managing our own portfolios—and changing the rules as we go.

But there’s still a lot of noise out there. So many “shoulds.” So much pressure to perform, hustle, or have it all figured out. That’s why grounding your money in your values is a game-changer. It keeps you focused, centered, and in control—no matter your income or background.

Start Small, Stay Consistent

You don’t have to do everything at once. But you can start with these simple steps:

1. Write down your top 3 values—freedom, family, adventure, security, creativity—whatever feels most you.
2. Track your spending for one week—is it aligned with those values?
3. Pick one money move this month that brings you closer to your goals (open a savings account, set up automatic investing, say no to a pressure purchase).
4. Talk about money with a friend you trust. Normalize it. Ask questions. Share wins and mistakes.

Your Legacy Starts Now

You don’t have to wait until you’re older, richer, or more “established” to start building something meaningful. Every small step you take now—every time you save with intention, invest with purpose, or spend in a way that feels good—adds up.

Living in alignment with your values isn’t just good for your soul. It’s one of the smartest financial strategies out there.

Final Thought:

Your money is yours. Use it to build a life that feels right—not just one that looks good from the outside.

Because wealth isn’t just what you have. It’s how you live.

Lindsay Hollinger is a portfolio manager and financial educator who’s passionate about helping women take control of their finances and live with purpose. She believes your money should support your values—not the other way around.