Workshop on Personal Finance
Week 1

Affluenza
(Af-flu-en-za) n. The bloated, sluggish and unfulfilled feeling that results from efforts to keep up with the Jones's.
An epidemic of stress, overwork, waste and indebtedness caused by dogged pursuit of the American Dream.
An unsustainable addiction to economic growth.
A television program that could change your life
HAVE You caught it?

AFFLUENZA What made an impact on you?

Money Possessions & Wealth

Affluenza

Christian thoughts on Wealth

Eternal Perspective

Building a Foundation

Challenge to Spiritual Life

Challenge to our Contentment in Christ

Battle Plan

What statements did this show make? Are they true? Does affluenza impact us as believers? How will this impact our nation?

Suggestions for a Cure
Before you buy, ask yourself: Do I need it? Do I want to maintain it? Could I borrow it from a friend, neighbor or family member? How many hours will I have to work to pay for it?
Avoid the mall. Go hiking or play ball with the kids instead. Pretend the Jones's are the thriftiest, least wasteful people on the block. Then try to keep up with them.

Become an advertising critic. Don't be sucked in by efforts to make you feel inadequate so you'll buy more stuff you don't need.

Splurge consciously. A few luxuries can be delightful, and they don't have to be expensive.

Make a budget. Know how much you are earning and spending. Each dollar represents precious time in your life that you worked. Are you spending money in ways that fulfill you? Top

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