Why You Keep Spending Money You Don't Have (3 Beliefs Keeping You Broke)Why You Keep Spending Money You Don't Have (3 Beliefs Keeping You Broke)
Livin the DREAM with Matt Scoletti
Matt Scoletti talks through three common money beliefs that can lead to overspending, debt and anxiety. He links mindset, happiness and freedom, using personal experience and everyday examples to prompt reflection about how you use your money.
10:24•28 Oct 2026
Three Money Beliefs That Quietly Keep You Broke and Stressed
Episode Overview
- Question the belief "I deserve this" before spending, especially when income doesn’t support lifestyle upgrades.
- Avoid buying things just to "keep up" with neighbours, colleagues or family; comparison often damages joy and finances.
- Recognise that "buying this equals happiness" is a belief sold heavily by adverts and can lead to emotional spending.
- Focus on keeping up with your own finances, health and family needs rather than material status symbols.
- Reflect on which money beliefs affect you most and how they may pass on to children or those around you.
“"Comparison is the thief of joy."”
What are the common struggles and victories in addiction recovery? Here, the focus is firmly on money beliefs and how they quietly limit freedom in every area of life. Aimed at anyone who wants more "money, health, time, freedom", this episode breaks down three powerful beliefs that can keep you broke and stressed.
Matt Scoletti, who mentions being "10 plus years sober now", uses his own past as an alcoholic to show how the phrase "I deserve this" can lead to overspending and self-sabotage. He recalls telling himself, "I worked hard all week. I deserve to go out and get hammered," and links that same mindset to blowing cash on stuff that doesn't actually help your future. The second belief is "I need to keep up with..." whether that's neighbours, colleagues or family.
Matt shares stories of people upgrading cars, houses and holidays just to match others, reminding you that "comparison is the thief of joy" and that ego-driven purchases rarely bring peace. Then comes the biggest trap: "Buying this equals happiness." Using examples from adverts and the classic boat-owner joke ("their favourite two days" being buying and selling the boat), he questions whether material things really fix low moods or just create more bills, maintenance and regret.
The tone is energetic and conversational, with repeated prompts to reflect: Who are you trying to keep up with? What have you bought chasing happiness that didn’t deliver? These questions make the episode especially useful if you're rethinking how money, mood and freedom connect in your life and recovery. If you've ever said "I deserve this" while reaching for your card, this one might be worth a listen. Which belief are you ready to challenge first?
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