Mastering the Trifecta: Money, Time, and Energy
In previous blogs, I have explored and reflected on certain belief systems and dynamics that have been deeply ingrained in our minds. The noise and force of these beliefs can be so overwhelming that we often feel powerless to choose alternative paths. My aim isn't to condemn every aspect of our current systems, but to illuminate certain perspectives that, when viewed differently, can open new pathways within us. These perspectives can unlock doors in our mental structure, prompting us to question whether the way we’ve been living truly represents a fulfilling life. The goal is to share insights that offer new options and mental frameworks, enabling us to respond to reality consciously rather than reactively, driven by programmed beliefs.
Today, I want to delve into the concept of lifestyle design. Our lives are a constant dance with three main components: money, time, and vital energy. How are we managing these elements? Reflecting consciously on our relationship with these three aspects is crucial. There are countless variables and realities. Some elderly individuals, for instance, have prioritized their physical well-being and enjoy great vitality in their advanced age, while some young adults have made poor health decisions and lack vital energy. There are young people with money and old people without it. You get the point.
For the sake of illustration, let’s consider the conventional relationship most of us have with these three elements:
Youth: When we are young, we are abundant in time and energy. We have all the required energy and time to move to a different country, backpack solo, start a new project or sport, and explore passions. Time and energy seem unlimited. The problem? We often lack the money to finance these experiences.
Young Adulthood: As young adults, we start making money and achieving financial stability. Our energy remains high, and our dreams of exploration, adventure, and projects persist. However, we usually lack the time to pursue these dreams. This is a crucial phase in our life journey. Many of us begin repressing our inner child—the curious, energetic, playful aspect of ourselves that craves exploration. We start taking life too seriously, getting distracted from what truly matters. We have money and energy, but we sacrifice our time, and our perception of life becomes narrow.
Adulthood: Years pass, and we prioritize our professional careers, leaving our precious years of adventure suppressed. We neglect our inner child, who cries out for acknowledgment. We miss the chance to live outside societal and cultural confines. Maybe our journey was meant to be conventional, but what if it wasn’t? We didn’t seize the opportunity to live in a different country, explore the world solo, or discover new passions and hobbies. We stayed rigid. What if there was more out there? By living in fear, we may miss our shot at creating something truly special. Now, we may have money and time, but we lack the vitality and rich experiences to invest in. The adventures our younger selves could’ve taken are no longer possible. That ship has sailed.
The message I want to convey is that mastering the balance of the trifecta—time, energy, and money—requires a conscious, intentional introspective process. It’s about designing our lives to enjoy and maximize our experiences without falling into the polarizations of these three aspects. It’s about living intentionally, constantly seeking that sweet spot where we have the necessary energy to pursue the activities and projects that fill our hearts. Make money, but don’t get trapped in the money game that blinds you to what lies beyond. Develop the wisdom to understand that money is just a bridge to freedom, enabling us to use our time for the things we love. Take care of your vital energy, keep your body moving, work out, stretch, do yoga—don’t stop using this amazing tool that we were given. Use your time wisely to do so. In the end, that is all we have. These are the three dimensions that, when lived intentionally, ensure a life of fulfillment. Cheers to a life of adventure, of movement, a life where our limited time is used wisely.
This balance is unique to each individual. There isn’t one right answer. The right answer lies within each of us. Close your eyes for ten minutes and reflect on your balance—you’ll find the answers. Don’t deceive yourself. Don’t live a life of regret.
Much love,
Matias