It’s natural to worry and stress over things that happen, whether related to our relationships, career, or personal finances. When things aren’t happening the way we want them to, we often worry and stress over things that just simply aren’t in our control. Thankfully, there’s another way, and it's called trusting the process.
But what does it mean to trust the process? This concept is a way to help take the burden off and not worry about things that aren’t in our immediate control.
Seems like that’s easier said than done, right? Here is why you should learn to trust the process. And also how it can improve your life and finances.
What does it truly mean to trust the process?
You may be wondering, "what does it mean to trust the process?" Well, Trust in the process is an expression used to convey the idea of letting go of fear and worry. It’s about being aware that you don’t need to be anxious because things will happen how they are meant to.
But it doesn’t mean you just let go and don’t commit to improving your life. It’s the opposite.
Trusting the process is about you committing to something over the long term. It’s about knowing that if you show up and do the work, despite all the challenges you may face, things will work out in the end.
Why trusting the process is important
This idea isn't easy to accept. It’s normal for us to want immediate results and to worry when things don’t go as planned.
Worry can lead to feeling physically unwell, including symptoms like headaches and fatigue. But learning to trust the process can help you overcome worry and concern about your finances.
Here are some benefits of having faith that things will work out:
It can give you more confidence
Having trust in the process can give you more confidence in your everyday life. By committing to the process, you build trust in yourself.
In turn, that can help you boost your self-esteem. And having good self-esteem can have a positive impact on many areas of your life.
It helps you focus on what you can control
Another reason is that it helps you focus on the things you can control. Many things happen that we can’t control – the weather, other people’s actions, and the state of the economy.
By trusting the process, you are instead focusing on what you can control. You can put your energy into things that matter to you and improve your overall well-being.
Gives you patience
Because this concept doesn’t come naturally, it can help you become a more patient person. And being patient comes with its own added benefits. It can help you stay more focused and set more realistic goals.
In addition, you'll become a better listener, and help others feel more comfortable.
Helps you practice gratitude
Gratitude can improve your sleep, how you feel, and your immune levels. Trusting in the process can help you appreciate the things you currently have.
By learning to let go of unnecessary stress and worry and practicing mindfulness, you can be grateful and content with what you currently have.
How does trusting the process apply to finances?
Trusting the process applies to your finances in many ways.
Since you've learned the answer to "what does it mean to trust the process"? it might seem like it just applies to improving your mental state, however, here are some of the ways this idea can help with finances:
Helps you stay committed to your finances
Since this idea is all about being committed to your goals and progressing daily, the same applies to finances. For example, you trust the process when you invest consistently (a process called dollar cost averaging).
Or when you put aside 10% of your income into your savings account. You are learning to trust and commit to your future by showing up and being dedicated to your finances.
Minimizes money stress
Finances can be stressful. Whether you’re setting up your own business, saving for a house, or investing in the stock market for the first time, money is a necessary aspect of life. It’s not uncommon to feel overwhelmed sometimes when dealing with finances.
Trusting the process can help take that stress off. While it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t pay attention to the stock market or set up an emergency fund, it can help take the burden off your shoulders.
Instead of worrying about how you will save up for retirement, putting your faith in the process can help ease your anxiety about your financial future.
Achieve long-term financial goals
Another benefit to having faith in how you approach your finances is that it can help you set and achieve long-term financial goals. Being committed and trusting can help you make smart decisions about your money and help you achieve financial success, such as buying a house or paying off debt.
By minimizing impulsive buying and having patience, you can set yourself up for reaching your long-term goals.
Ways you can trust in the process when it comes to your finances
When it comes to trusting the process and your finances, there are quite a few things you can do.
While it might be easier said than done to just trust the process, having steps in place can help you practice trust and benefit you in the long run. This includes being mindful of your spending habits and saving money.
Follow a debt pay-off plan
It's easy to get overwhelmed if you have debt and feel like you’ll never get out of it. One way to take control and trust the process is to follow a debt pay-off plan.
By using a debt reduction plan, like the avalanche or snowball method, you can slowly pay off your debt and get your finances in order.
While it might seem like your debt never goes away, by staying the course and committing to the process, you can start to get your debt under control.
Follow a savings goal plan
Having a savings goal plan is always a good idea. By putting the same amount of money from every paycheck into an emergency fund, you can start to build up your wealth. Even if that means just putting $50 aside every week, know that it will start to build up.
We all must start somewhere when it comes to building wealth. Trusting the process of savings means committing to putting aside a little bit when you can and trusting that your savings will start to grow.
Set up a budget
Another way to trust the process is to set up a budget. There are several ways to create a budget.
Having an idea of your financial plans and making sure you are spending your money wisely can help you keep track of where your money is going. And when you know where your money is going, you can adjust your budget as needed.
Finding a budget that works for you can help you trust the process of managing your finances.
Avoid impulsive purchases
Making impulsive purchases eats a hole into your wallet and does not help your long-term financial goals. Instead, when you trust the process and set up a plan for your finances, you can avoid making impulsive or emotionally driven purchases.
If you're thinking about buying something, take it out of your shopping cart and wait a few days to think about it. Make sure it aligns with your other long-term goals before making the purchase.
Learn how investing works
Investing is one of the best examples of trusting the process regarding your finances. Thanks to compound investing, the longer you keep your money invested, the more likely your money will work for you.
While there is a risk with investing and there’s no guarantee of how much money you will make as an investor, using a long-term investment strategy can increase the possibility of making a decent return.
Monitor your progress
Make sure to regularly review your finances to make sure you are on track with your goals. If you need to, make adjustments. After all, we are all human and make mistakes.
You can keep yourself accountable by checking in on your financial progress regularly. Plus, you'll start to see the progress you are making toward your financial goals and the benefit that comes from having trust in the process.
Trusting the process is essential when it comes to your finances!
Remember that trusting the process can help you make smarter financial decisions.
Whether setting up an emergency fund, investing in a retirement account, or creating a budget, know that the process will help you stay on track and reach your financial goals.
While things can happen outside of our control, putting our worry and fear aside can help us stay focused on the big picture.