I must create a system, or be enslaved by another man's. ~ William Blake

Yesterday I did my financial statement. You know, that system where you take all your assets and accounts and compare it to all you spend. It's something I've been doing for over a year. It really is freeing to see the numbers on a page and know I'm in control. I have choices. I know what I have and where I need to improve.

It was torture to start this habit. I was scared for months and confused as to what items I was to exactly account. Then I did it. It took hours if I remember correctly. We do have lots of accounts and all the log-in info to find and then to create a form to record it all in one place. But I did it. Every stock, precious metal, money market, savings, credit union, and every credit card, bill, and payment went on my form. And when I finished I remember thinking, "Is that all there is?" All my emotions were worked up over this one piece of paper. Silly, really. A little bit of me gets anxious to start, but when the numbers are updated, it is a relief. I feel a sense of comfort. I don't "feel" rich and derive my comfort from the numbers. I think the feeling of relief comes from accepting control. William Blake's quote above is about making your own way or be enslaved by another man. When I do my financials on my own form, I am not enslaved. My banker isn't in control of my money and accounts. I own my system and accept that the numbers on the financial statement are reflections of my choices. Don't let emotions keep you from making your own system. Accept where you are financially and make your financial statement your beginning.