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Ep. 224 How To Shift Your Money Identity
Let’s dive into the grief and fear that can surface when we try to outgrow old identities tied to survival and struggle – especially around money and success. I’ll help you explore why you might feel stuck or resistant even when you logically want to thrive, and guide you through important questions and practical mindset shifts.
You’ll learn how to release old patterns, embrace new identities, and move toward unstoppable financial and emotional growth. If you’re ready to stop holding back and truly step into your next level, this episode is for you!
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- Money Clarity Audit – https://aimeecerka.com/clarity
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How to Identify and Process Grief in Your Identity
Have you ever noticed that the moment you start to succeed or grow, you end up in the same place again? In this episode, we’re diving into how to identify and process the grief that can show up in your identity.
We’ll also talk about how to release fear and feel safe becoming someone who thrives without holding back.
If you feel stuck in a survival or struggling mindset—even though you know you’re capable of more—or if you notice resistance or fear, this is for you.
You’re ready to outgrow the old you and step into a version that thrives financially, emotionally, and in life.
Let’s get into it.
Blending Financial Strategy and Mindset Work
This is Money Simplified, the podcast where I help female entrepreneurs go from stress and struggle to unstoppable with money.
Money is more than just budgeting and P&Ls. We combine proven financial strategies with mindset work and energetic alignment so you can create unstoppable finances, build an unstoppable business, and enjoy your unstoppable life.
It’s time to take my wisdom and expertise to help you simplify money and go beyond the numbers.
I’m your host, Aimee Cerka.
Welcome.
I’m so glad you’re here.
Addressing Unspoken Grief and Fear in Growth
Welcome back to Money Simplified, I’m your host, Aimee Cerka. Today, we’re discussing something that often goes unnoticed—the grief, fear, and uncertainty that come up when you outgrow your old self.
Whether it’s about money, business, or life, this often goes unseen.
Here’s the thing: we don’t realize that we’ve tied our identity to survival mode, struggle, or staying small. It can become a badge of honor, or just feel like the theme of your life.
This identity can keep you stuck, even if you logically say, “I’m ready for more, I’m ready to do this thing, have this business, have the audience, attention, sales, or clients.”
You can logically say these things but not actually embody them.
Examples of Identity Patterns and Their Roots
That’s where we get stuck in the old identity, clinging to patterns.
Let’s give an example. Maybe you crave your parents’ love—and it was a struggle growing up.
Before we go further, this isn’t about bashing anyone’s parents. It’s about what you do with these things.
It’s not about what actually happened—it’s about your perception. Your perception is your reality.
So, what will you do with that perception? We’re not passing blame; we’re using this information to move forward.
Maybe you didn’t feel loved or worthy of attention growing up, but you needed your parents financially. Because you needed them, you received attention.
Now, you might tie your identity to not being self-sufficient financially.
Understanding Fear and Guilt Linked to Money
What does your relationship look like if you don’t need your spouse or parents for money anymore?
Maybe you made choices you regret—like investing in programs and hiding those expenses or debt from your spouse. You don’t want to tell them.
Why? Because you feel like you were wrong or you failed.
Where does that story or identity come from? Often, it’s childhood.
Is it logical? Not really.
So, here are some questions for you. If you’re thinking, “Oh crap, that could be me,” just know you’re not alone.
Reflection Questions for Personal Growth
Here’s what to do.
Question one: If you succeed, who or what do you fear you’ll lose? Really think about this.
Question two: Who are you becoming? Is there shame, guilt, or does it feel wrong wanting to become that person?
Logically, you know this is what you want. But this isn’t about logic.
If your parents implied that rich people are bad, or if the media reinforced that, you might be afraid success will make you a “bad” person.
We need to shift that identity.
Self-Sabotage, Compassion, and the Path Forward
This concept goes deep. The realization and grief that you may have self-sabotaged yourself for years can be hard.
If you’re feeling that, it’s normal. You’re okay.
This is a necessary part of growth.
If you hadn’t had your experiences, you wouldn’t be where you are now.
The beauty is that with identities, you can try on something new. It’s like stepping into a new role.
You can choose to step into a different role.
Don’t beat yourself up. No guilt, no shame.
Just choose something different.
How to Choose and Build New Identities
You don’t have to pick the opposite of your current identity.
If you felt like life always had to be a struggle, you don’t have to suddenly decide, “Everything is easy now.” That’s too big a leap.
For now, try on, “It doesn’t have to be a struggle.” Take small steps and build new identities.
Make the choice now—things can be different.
You don’t have to live in fear.
Practical Tips for Shifting Your Identity
When you make those choices, you’re anchoring in new beliefs. I highly recommend nervous system regulation—like EFT tapping or breathwork.
There are plenty of other modalities and tools out there too.
Remember, we’re not always operating from a logical place, and we can’t fix this at a purely logical level.
Make the choice now—it can change now. The moment you choose, things shift.
If you fall back into old patterns, just choose again. Choose yourself again.
Compassion and Sustainable Change
Don’t beat yourself up.
We’re on a journey.
Choose yourself.
If you have to pick the new identity every ten minutes, then do it.
Eventually, it might be every twenty minutes, then every hour, then every couple of days.
This is how you build that muscle until it becomes normal.
Breaking Money Patterns and Moving Forward
If you suspect you have money patterns that keep you struggling, know this: you’re not alone.
If you’ve done all the right steps, mindset work, followed the logic, and it’s still not working, I have a resource for you.
I just released a money clarity audit.
It’s a simple form at https://aimeecerka.com/clarity. Fill it out, and I’ll record a personalized video audit for you.
We’ll break down financial habits, patterns, and blocks. I’ll show you exactly where you can take action to move past your blocks.
Think of it as a mini coaching session, personalized to help you move past fear, guilt, or survival habits—so you can finally feel confident and aligned in your finances and business.
You’re Building Something Real—Keep Going
It’s time to step into the version of yourself that thrives.
Remember—you’re not behind, you’re not broken, and you’re definitely not alone.
You’re building something real, and that takes courage.
Keep going.
You’re doing better than you think.
We’re doing this the unstoppable way.
Connect and Take Your Next Steps
Thank you so much for listening to Money Simplified.
My favorite place to hang out is on Instagram—find me at @AimeeCerka for all the behind-the-scenes, stories, and to send me a message.
Share your biggest takeaway with me—or just say hi. I love hearing from podcast listeners!
When you’re ready to take action on your mindset, money, or business systems, I’m here for you.
Whether you want a free resource, a mini course, in-depth support through the Money Mastery Academy, or need bookkeeping help—your next step is waiting at https://aimeecerka.com/podcastlinks.
See you next time!