If I had told him that money wasn't everything, then he most definitely would have said "That's a lie poor people tell themselves." What about, "It's only money?" Do poor people say that too? Although money is significant, it isn't everything.
I really think that if George would have taken time to get to know me, he would agree with my view on money. It's not that I think money is evil, or that George is wrong to want it with so much passion. My view is that money is never a good reason to make a decision.
Someone could choose a career based on how much money they might make, but if they hate what they do they will likely fail and be miserable their whole life. Their misery will eventually spill over into other aspects of their life as well; family, health, etc. Or, someone could choose a career based on what they are passionate about. If you follow your passion, and are smart and talented, the money will come. I have seen it time and time again.
As we all hear, money is the root of all evil, or the love of money is the root of all evil. In a general sense, obsession is rarely healthy. Obsession with money is never healthy. It leads to people sacrificing more important things (ie family, health, etc) in order to obtain it.
Learn about successful millionaires that are happy, and you will learn that they didn't do it for the money. Don't get me wrong, money is a factor, but it usually isn't the motivating factor in a persons success. When it is, the person usually struggles in all other aspects of life.
This leads me to my philosophy of permaculture. I could work to earn money in order to buy a weed whacker. Then I could work some more to pay for the seasonal tuneup, gas, oil, string and other maintenance. Then I could put on ear muffs, long pants and safety glasses and go get covered in bug guts and grossness. Or I could buy a scythe. It would take less time, money and effort to do the same job.
When we realize that time is money and we sell our lives by the hour, then financial decisions become easier. Some people sell too much of their lives and become time poor. Some people don't sell enough, and are cash poor.
Do something you love to pay your bills and be happy. Enjoy life! If you are talented and intelligent money and success will find you. If you lack talent and intelligence, at least you will be happy, and that's the purpose of life.
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