As we continue through the Transformational Organization process, you will begin to “find” money. Soon we will begin the “Every-Nook-And-Cranny” Cleaning and the hidden money will begin to emerge. It might not be much, however what you will do with this money is important. As you begin to reconstruct or enhance the financial component of your life, you will quickly see how the “found” money will become a foundation for creating wealth. The concept is more valuable than the money. Therefore, as you “find” money in your purse, behind the dresser, in your coat pocket or other hidden area, designate a place to collect this money. Make a promise that you won’t touch the money no matter what. Each time you find money in your car, purse or coat, add it to the money that you already have. I keep mine in a small metal lock box. When I have 50.00, I then deposit the money in my savings account and resume collecting. What is clever about this process is that you begin to value any denomination of money to add to your special secret stash. As you begin saving money, it becomes addictive just like spending. Don’t worry about the amount right now. What you want to accomplish is a intrinsic attitude about saving money. As you continue through the Transformational Organization process, you will look more favorably at saving and making money than spending.

Later in the process, you will begin to save each month from your paycheck as you will have successfully scaffolded your spending into a manageable system while saving money each month using coupons, smart shopping habits and taking control of the clutter instead of adding to it. Spending money is a form of control and either you have control or you don’t. Taking appropriate control of your habits feels positive and you will find yourself more satisfied with your life by exerting control and allowing your savings and net worth to increase as your out-of-control spending and debt decrease.

Lastly, if you have worked in any other state than that of which you are currently working, you need to contact that state’s unclaimed assets department. Often, when you leave a state in which you have worked, your retirement or employer’s contributions remain unless you collect them before leaving the state. I contacted the unclaimed asset department in Florida and found that I have over 300.00 remaining from some fund I had contributed. Please note that if you withdraw the funds, you may be taxed but you might be able to roll the money over into a tax-deferred account without being taxed. You do not have to go through a service to receive your money. You can do this by yourself and avoid all the fees the service would charge. The important point is that you collect any money you are entitled to.

“Found Money” is a small strategy to empower your sense of financial well-being and inspire you to begin taking control over chaos and insecurity and move toward serenity and security.