If you are young and poor, is it bad to be motivated by money?

Question

I’m 17, I have no money, and that’s why I work. Is that bad?

Answer 1

As mentioned already, everyone works for money.

What that poster failed to consider though, is that isn't always the primary motivation...which appears to be what you are asking.

And no, it's not bad to be motivated by money. Hopefully though, you are motivated by more than money. Hopefully you enjoy your job, see it's purpose in the grand scheme of things, feel as though you are fulfilling that purpose, etc. Likewise, there are plenty of people who do jobs to pay their bills, that they picked so they can have free time to do other altruistic things.

Thing is, you're a complex individual...there are many reasons for many of the things you do. What I can't help but ponder here, is why you are asking such a question? Is someone questiong your morals? Are you questioning your morals?

If your questions are based on the judgements of others...don't bother with what they are saying, unless of course you see merit in their words. In that case, you are questioning your own morals, and this is something you must come to terms with on your own. Are you, for example, happy just working for money? Even if you are, hell...it's an honest day's work. You are a productive member of society, working and contributing taxes. if NOTHING else, you are at least indirectly doing more than simply working for money.

So, while "bad" is a matter of opinion, really the only opinion that matters is yours.

Answer 2

You work so you do have money. What you mean is that you spend your money as fast as you earn it. We all started that way and most of us never get beyond that unless someone comes along and says you MUST save at least 10% of every dollar you earn starting today. It goes in a jar to begin with and then into a bank savings account which you NEVER touch until the big ticket item - or emergency need of importance - comes along: a car, downpayment on a house, travel following graduation, etc., or wedding and so on. Do that and you will not be poor much longer.
Is it bad to be motivated by money? Oh yes. That is a very big YES. The sad fact is that millions (and most millionaires/billionaires if they don't gamble, drug or chase pretty people - ad nauseum) of Americans live for the pursuit of money and they do not add up to doing important things. Look at Donald Trump: His life is money (whether or not he has any) and his image is of the guy who is always right and who everyone bows to. In other words, he is always "On" because his life is his show and vice versa. All shows come to an end as do all acts. The pursuit of money becomes your life - the fun is in the pursuit but in the meantime, unless you pursue money to give most of it away to a foundation of your own, charities, or spontaneous acts of kindness, the money becomes your love, your sex, your art, your soul and in the end, your nemesis. Pursue only those things that grab your soul, that bring you alive, that gives you pleasure undreamed of. If the money follows, and enough of it will, fine. In the end you have become somebody whose life mattered. And that is all that matters, as I see it.

Answer 3

Rich people love money 1,000 times more than you do.
It is a THING, though, and doesn't have a lot to do with happiness. What you think of yourself is the most important thing---money will never change that. There is a muslim saying: "If a man has a valley filled with gold, he will want two."

One great film (which inspired the movie THE GODFATHER) is the 1949 film HOUSE OF STRANGERS. It shows the effect of wealth on a close and happy Italian-American family---success, and finding the "american dream" turns them into murderous, envious, enemies. Money becomes the driving motivation of the family, and nothing else matters.

Answer 4

Money is what I call the root of all evil. You need it to survive, but should not let it control your life. Yes we all want things in life, we all want a nice house, car, etc. But does that make you happy? Does working all the time to have material things-make it worth losing out on good times with friends and family or doing things that you enjoy. I would say find a job that makes you happy, and that pays the bills. Go to college, and then watch your income grow.

Answer 5

No it isn't bad at all!
Not many people work just because they have nothing better to do. We are all motivated by the need to make money and pay our bills, feed our kids, etc.
I think it is commendable that you don't expect your parents to take care of you, and you are out there earning your own living.

Answer 6

it's great to be motivated. It sounds like you are mature enough to keep your goals "in check" and not "worship" money. I hope you get some further education so you can get a really good job. Have a great future!!

Answer 7

Unfortunately, in this day and age... in this country... you need money just to survive. So, to be motivated by money is NOT a bad thing.

Granted, money does not buy happiness, but again, it does buy food, and it does put a roof over your head.

Lot's of luck to you.... I have faith in you!

< peace >

Answer 8

no you should be motivated by money because if you were'nt you would probably not get a job and be a bum for the rest of your life. most importantly dont go out and blow your money.

Answer 9

No, little sister, it sucks us all in eventually. Take care to extend your education if you can. It is a far better life if you give yourself better pay scale options, than it is to work yourself to death for peanuts. Keep up the good work!

Answer 10

Everybody works because of money.