by Yasawaii Saadiq, Founder of Third Eye Nubians

 

When it comes to building wealth, the biggest battle isn’t always in your bank account—it’s in your mind. You can learn all the strategies for paying off debt and investing, but if your mindset is stuck in survival mode, you’ll always feel like you’re playing catch-up. True wealth begins with reshaping how you think about money. 

Step 1: Recognize Your Money Beliefs

Many of us were raised with hidden money scripts:  

• “Money is hard to come by.” 
• “People like me don’t get rich.” 
• “I’ll always be in debt.” 

These beliefs often come from family, community, or past financial struggles. The problem? They keep you trapped in the same cycle. The first step is awareness—identifying those limiting beliefs so you can replace them with empowering ones.  

Step 2: Shift from Scarcity to Abundance

Scarcity thinking says: “There’s never enough.” Abundance thinking says: “I can create more.” Instead of focusing on what you lack, focus on possibilities. Scarcity keeps you hustling just to get by, while abundance opens your eyes to opportunities—whether that’s starting a side hustle, investing, or acquiring assets that make money while you sleep.  

Step 3: Separate Self-Worth from Net Worth

One reason debt feels crushing is that people tie their financial situation to their identity. But your current bank balance does not define your value. Adopting a wealth mindset means seeing yourself as capable, worthy, and in control—no matter where you’re starting from.  

Step 4: Redefine Wealth Beyond Just Money

Wealth isn’t just about dollar signs. True wealth includes:  

• Time Freedom (not trading every hour for money) 
• Health (because what’s money without well-being?) 
• Relationships (strong networks often lead to new opportunities) 

When you see wealth as more than cash, it’s easier to make decisions that create lasting prosperity instead of chasing quick wins.  

Step 5: Build Daily Wealth Habits

A mindset shift has to be reinforced with action. Start small:  

• Track every dollar that comes in and goes out. 
• Read 10 minutes of a financial education book each day. 
• Repeat affirmations like: “Money flows to me through multiple streams.” 
• Surround yourself with people who talk about opportunities, not just struggles. 

Wealth grows when your habits align with your goals.

  

Closing: Freedom Starts in the Mind

Breaking the chains of financial struggle isn’t just about budgeting or side hustles. It’s about transforming how you think. Once your mindset shifts, your actions shift. And when your actions shift, wealth becomes not just possible—but inevitable.