There’s a well-known saying in finance and investment: “Scared money doesn’t make money.” This age-old wisdom encapsulates the idea that playing it safe with your finances might provide a sense of security, but it rarely leads to significant financial growth. In this post, we’ll delve into why scared money doesn’t make money, discussing four key points to help you understand and overcome this fear, ultimately enabling you to achieve your financial goals.

The Paralysis of Fear

One of the primary reasons scared money doesn’t make money is the paralysis it induces. When you’re too afraid to take calculated risks, you’ll often find yourself stuck in a cycle of financial stagnation. This fear can manifest as a reluctance to invest, start a business, or even change careers. It’s essential to remember that all successful individuals have taken risks along their journey. While not every risk will pay off, the willingness to take them can lead to significant financial gains.

Opportunity Cost

Every dollar you leave idle out of fear is a missed opportunity for growth. While having a financial safety net is wise, keeping too much money tucked away in low-yield savings accounts or avoiding investments entirely can lead to substantial opportunity costs. In a dynamic economy, investments can grow exponentially over time, allowing your money to work for you. By being overly cautious, you might be missing out on wealth-building opportunities.

Diversification and Risk Management

It’s crucial to understand that not all investments are inherently risky. Diversification and risk management are key strategies to mitigate financial risks. Diversifying your portfolio across different asset classes, such as stocks, bonds, and real estate, can help you balance risk while still allowing your money to grow. Also, studying and understanding your investments can help you make informed decisions and reduce fear-related losses.

The Power of Education

One of the most effective ways to overcome the fear of scared money is through education. Knowledge is a powerful tool that can empower you to make informed decisions. Whether it’s understanding the stock market, real estate, or starting your own business, continuous learning can give you the confidence to step out of your comfort zone and embrace financial opportunities.

Don’t let fear hold you back from achieving your financial goals. Scared money doesn’t make money, but calculated risks, strategic investments, and ongoing education can set you on a path to financial success. Start by examining your financial strategy, seeking opportunities to diversify and grow your money, and never stop learning. Remember, the journey to financial prosperity begins with the first step out of your comfort zone.

Schedule a call if you are ready to step out of your comfort zone and discover if franchise ownership can help you diversify your portfolio.


David Weaver is the Founder of Franchise Your Freedom and a senior consultant with FranChoice, the premier national network of franchise consultants. David helps people all over the country find the right franchise fit by sharing his personal experience and philosophy on how to select the right brand.  He shares proven strategies and over a decade of experience growing franchise companies for himself with those that are doing it for the first time. You can learn more about David at FranchiseYourFreedom.