In the August edition of Reader’s Digest, there was an interview with the first American Idol Kelly Clarkson. I enjoyed reading her thoughts on money.
Reader’s Digest: Your family also had a hard time financially and argued about money.
Clarkson: That was always a huge issue. I know money doesn’t solve everything, but it solves a whole lot.
Reader’s Digest: How are you with your own money?
Clarkson: I have saved and saved, and I don’t have to work another day. When I won Idol and started working with a business manager, she asked “What do you want?” I was like, I don’t ever want to have to make a decision because I need money. So we accomplished that two years ago, and I’m set.
Coming from a poor background myself, I saw the same thing happen at my Mom’s house. Decisions being made because of a short term lack of money, not because that was the right thing to do long term. A loved one is currently risking his health because of a money crunch (can’t afford the medical bills or even the time off work).
Sometimes more money is less about the toys and more about the freedom to do what is right.
Comments (4)
I had the same experience growing up. My mom lived in the NOW with her money. I watched my mom reach retirement with no savings, get sick with cancer, and struggle with financial lack during her final years. It was painful for her, and painful to watch.
Posted by Millionaire Mommy Next Door | September 19, 2007 11:27 AM
Posted on September 19, 2007 11:27
It is so refreshing to hear a woman within the realm of celebrity with a clear head about money.
There are so few positive female role models out there- its reaffirming to hear women on the right track.
Cheers.
Posted by Allese | September 19, 2007 4:16 PM
Posted on September 19, 2007 16:16
I loved that you posted Kelly's comment...along with yours
You both grew up poor, and you're both careful about saving . Good for you!!
My experience is that often when people start making tons of money, they start spending tons of it too.
My biggest surprise when I interviewed women for "Secrets of Six-Figure Women," was how few of these women were wealthy.
Wealth doesn't come from what you earn...it's comes from what you do with what you earn: saving and investing.
Keep up the good work, Kimber.
Barbara Stanny, author
http://www.barbarastanny.com
Posted by Barbara Stanny | September 21, 2007 4:45 PM
Posted on September 21, 2007 16:45
Another smart move by Kelly was to keep her residence in Texas...no state income tax!!
Posted by Mark | September 28, 2007 1:46 PM
Posted on September 28, 2007 13:46