I have been using the euro for almost a year and it has transformed my relationship to money. I have heard tourists say things about foreign currency such as, “it is so cute” or “it looks like play money,” eliciting frowns from various currency exchange officers. While I don’t agree that the euro is cute or pretend, having a different appearance and value from the dollar has been transformational.
I have lived with the look, feel, and smell of the United States currency my whole life. I have known times of prosperity and periods of scarcity. I have been generous with money at times, and protective at other times. I am not an expert in money management or financial planning but here is what I do know. Money is a tool and it ebbs and flows and opens some doors but it is certainly not the only key.
The euro has taught me detachment. The bills and coins of various colors and sizes have been just enough of a change from United States green to teach me to focus on money less and life more. The result? There is more ease in making a living, and more time to make a life.
