How Much Do You Make?

Money. Nothing can cause people to judge faster than knowing how much someone makes. We look at people and criticize them for having too much, or wonder what kind of poor choices they've made to have so little. Even Dr. Ramey just wrote about being "in it for the money."

Talking about our incomes makes us uncomfortable. Other than the whole being judged aspect, I don't know why that is. Revealing how much we spent on something is just as disagreeable. 

It was horribly difficult to report how much I spent every month in 2012.  I wrote 13 very detailed posts reporting every penny that I spent on my two horses. I did that series to hold myself accountable; I really didn't know how much I was actually spending each month. I also intended the series to be educational. Most people who don't yet show think that only the very wealthiest can afford it. I wanted to illustrate that showing horses can be done on a budget. While my intentions were good, it still felt like I was getting butt-naked each month.

I find that I am once again about to be in the awkward position of being metaphorically nude as I discuss my finances with the rest of the world. Obviously, I could just keep it to myself, but frankly, I am going to need some help in finding the right horse. Being transparent about my budget might help me make some connections that I might otherwise miss.

Doing so however, reveals an awful lot about myself that I don't necessarily need everyone to know. When we state our position so publicly, we invite criticism with judgement not far behind. Most of us love to offer advice, but when there is a dollar figure attached, the opinions can get pretty passionate.

I've already (patiently, I might add) listened to what I should do in searching for a horse. I've also been advised not to by from this type of seller, but rather from that one. I've also sought counsel from my two trainers. Their advice has been spot on which is why there is no pony suddenly filling up Sydney's recently vacated stall. 

I get that readers, acquaintances, and plain old busy bodies just want to offer their two cents worth, but when you offer me that advice, please remember that I have owned quite a few horses in my lifetime and only one of them didn't quite work out. I trust my instincts, I just need help making connections to honest sellers.

I am working on a post that actually reveals what I am searching for and what I can afford to spend. If only I could just add a few details to this pony and hit print!

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Color by number?!