Why I’m Keeping My Finances Private This Christmas Eve — You Should Too
Not everything needs to be shared—especially tonight.
It’s a full Christmas mood at my house, and everything feels like it’s slowed down for just a moment. The tree lights are glowing, the fireplace is crackling, and my kids are bouncing off the walls. As they bounce around, I find myself thinking about the past year—how it’s been, where I’ve grown, and what I want to protect as we head into the new year.
For me, one lesson stands out above all others: the value of keeping my finances to myself.
A few years back—before I’d saved enough to retire early—I was so pumped about my financial progress that I shared more than I should have.
It was innocent enough; I talked about my raises, my investment wins, and some big savings goals with family and close friends.
At first, it felt great. I thought maybe I was inspiring people, or at least giving them a sense of what was possible. But I started noticing some uncomfortable changes. Friends and relatives seemed to expect me to pick up the check more often. Little comments about me “having money to spare” popped up. And then there were the “opportunities” people wanted me to invest in—pitches that didn’t always feel legit.
It didn’t take long for me to realize that sharing my finances so freely was warping my relationships.
Instead of talking to me as a friend or a neighbor, some people started seeing me as a source of funding. It was stressful and, honestly, really disheartening.
When I finally decided to dial down the financial oversharing, things shifted in a big way.
Here’s what I discovered:
Relationships Stay Authentic
When my money isn’t center stage, I get to be seen as me. Conversations are genuine, and people aren’t making assumptions about my lifestyle or my ability to help them financially.
Peace of Mind
It’s amazing how much lighter I feel when I’m not worrying about constant questions or “favor” requests. By keeping specifics under wraps, I avoid awkward conversations—and the tension that comes with them.
“Rich Tax”
If people think you have deep pockets, they might charge you more or expect you to contribute more. Staying under the radar helps me spend my money where it counts, without paying an invisible surcharge.
Fewer Risky Pitches
When you’re known as “the one with money,” everyone and their cousin has a can’t-miss investment idea. Not revealing every detail about my finances dramatically reduces the pressure to invest in things I’m not comfortable with.
This time of year can make financial boundaries a challenge. Between big family gatherings, gift exchanges, and the inevitable talks about New Year’s resolutions, it’s all too easy for money questions to creep into conversations.
What I’ve learned is this: being honest—but keeping the details light—helps shift the focus back to what really matters: spending time together, celebrating the season, and enjoying each other’s company.
Over the years, I’ve developed a few habits that help me navigate these situations smoothly.
Maybe they’ll work for you, too.
I drive a modest car, live in a reasonably priced home, and avoid flashy splurges. It’s not about depriving myself; Flashy spending just doesn’t align with my values.
When someone asks how much I make or the size of my savings, I keep it vague and stick to principles. I’ll say something like, “I save a big chunk of what I earn,” or “I invest in things I know inside and out.” It answers the question without putting my financial details on display.
When people ask for financial help, I permit myself to turn it down if it doesn’t feel right. That can be tough, especially if it’s family, but I’ve learned that preserving a good relationship often means setting clear boundaries.
This Christmas, I’m reminding myself again that success isn’t about showing off.
It’s not about proving anything to anyone. Real success is about freedom—freedom to live life on my terms, protect my peace of mind, and keep my relationships real.
I’ve learned that when you feel the need to flaunt what you’ve earned, you’re giving away power.
True success is quiet.
It’s knowing I’m living within my means, helping when I can, and keeping my financial details private so they don’t get in the way of what matters.
As I sit here with the tree lights glowing and my kids running around, I’m grateful for the calm I’ve created in my life.
Success doesn’t need an audience. It’s about enjoying moments like these without letting money steal the spotlight.
Merry Christmas! 🎄
Wishing you strength, clarity, and big wins in the year ahead.
- Mike