Money Blocks: What’s Stopping Women Over 50 From Financial Confidence?

Your Money Journey: Lisa Sakai

What’s Blocking Your Money Mojo?

“Your mind is either your most powerful ally or your worst enemy. The choice is yours.”

That quote from Barbara Corelli sets the stage for a fresh look at money, mindset, and the sneaky blocks that stop us from reaching financial freedom.

Your relationship with money often feels stressful for reasons you can’t quite name. We call this “money blocks”—those invisible mental hurdles that trip you up over and over, even if you know all the right steps on paper. Getting clear on these stumbling blocks is the first step to shifting your financial story and unlocking real progress.

Understanding Money Blocks: What Are They and Why They Matter

Money blocks are hidden beliefs or emotions tied to money that hold you in place. They can show up as anxiety, self-doubt, or even shame whenever you have to make a financial decision. Most of these started somewhere deep in your past. Here are some common roots:

• Childhood memories around lack or wealth
• Money mistakes you regret
• Patterns you saw in your family
• Cultural messages about money and success

If any of these sound familiar, you’re not alone.

Spotting Money Blocks in Real Life

When I first meet with new clients, I ask gentle questions about their earliest money memories—what worked, what they regret, what felt scary or exciting. These talks are often awkward at the start, but they shine light on old wounds or fears that might otherwise block progress. As a financial advisor, I’m no therapist, but I know these conversations matter just as much as any spreadsheet.

Why No One Escapes Money Blocks

Money blocks touch everyone at some point. Even the most responsible adults can fall into patterns of self-sabotage. You might ignore advice that would protect you, or repeat old habits that keep you stuck. The root cause? Deep-set beliefs and emotions about what you “deserve” or can “handle” with money.

The Myth of “Not Being Smart Enough” About Money

So many women tell me, “I’m just not good with money,” or, “I’ve never been good at math, that’s why I’m not good with money.” But money isn’t about complicated math—it’s about knowing your goals, taking small steps, and keeping the faith. It’s not about being born smart—just willing to learn.

Block #1: Fear of Failure

Fear of failure sits at the center of so much financial struggle. The thought of missing a goal, not retiring, or never buying a home can freeze you in place. Sometimes, even the dream of a trip to Europe feels out of reach.

Vague goals like “I want to travel” or “I want to retire” rarely work. They don’t fuel you with motivation or help create a real plan. Break them down. Get specific. Ask yourself:

• Where exactly do you want to travel—and with whom?
• What do you picture when you imagine time with family? Crafts at home, or trips abroad?
• What does your version of financial freedom look like day by day?

These details make a goal feel real and exciting. The details give you momentum.

Block #2: Lack of Self-Worth Around Money

Women in particular battle insecurity with money—even those crushing it in their careers. Cody Sanchez once described being in a room full of high-powered women and being the only one confidently raising her hand when asked, “Who here loves money?” Many women hesitate, worried they’ll look materialistic, dumb, or out of place.

How Lack of Confidence Can Hold You Back

When you feel lost, you freeze. You rush through decisions or put them off, afraid of sounding ignorant. But feeling clueless doesn’t mean you can’t learn. Everyone starts somewhere.

Breaking Through Lack of Confidence: Small Steps Matter

Building money confidence isn’t about suddenly becoming an expert. It’s about tiny steps:

• Read one news article a week (Yahoo Finance is a good place to start)
• Talk to friends about money choices—yes, even if it feels awkward
• Share financial questions with family

Here are tips for starting a money conversation:

• “I heard about a new type of savings account, has anyone looked into those?”
• “Have you ever changed your investments? What made you decide?”
• “Do you have any apps that help you track your spending?”

You’ll be surprised by how much support and shared wisdom you’ll find.

Block #3: Procrastination

This is the classic “I know I should, but I don’t” dilemma. Too many adults haven’t checked their 401k in years or can’t remember the last time they looked at a credit statement. That’s risky.

How to Overcome Procrastination with Simple Scheduling

One fix—keep it simple. Set a 15-minute reminder every quarter to check your 401k. Peek at your credit card statements once a week. Even if you don’t understand everything you see, looking is half the battle. Consistent small actions build momentum.

Three Money Blocks and How to Break Them

To recap, the main blocks that get in your way are:

• Fear of Failure
• Lack of Self-Worth
• Procrastination

Start building momentum by daring to list detailed dreams, reading something new about money this week, and setting a calendar reminder for a fifteen-minute check-in.

A successful financial journey often involves taking small, confident steps.

About the Author:

Lisa Sakai is a Financial Consultant who works with clients on Bucket List Acceleration and getting to live the life they want now. As the co-founder of One Vision Retirement, she has been working with clients across the country for over 12 years. Lisa’s advice provides easy to understand, logical steps and exercises that people can take action on right away. Learn more about Lisa Sakai here at One Vision Retirement.

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