Money Strain Patterns
Money Strain Patterns are the emotional and behavioural habits that show up when money feels uncertain, pressured or overwhelming. These patterns are not flaws. They are protective responses your nervous system learned over time, often long before you were self employed. Understanding your patterns is the first step towards calmer decisions and steadier financial habits.
The four Money Strain Patterns
Most women recognise a blend of these patterns in themselves. They’re simply the ways we try to cope when money feels uncertain or overwhelming.
Money strain patterns are not personality types or fixed traits. they are simply the ways our nervous system tries to keep us safe when money feels uncertain, pressured or overwhelming. Many self-employed women recognise a blend of these behaviours in themselves, shifting between them depending on stress levels, workload, client pressure, income fluctuations or emotional triggers (often from family).
When you can identify the pattern you are in, you take back clarity and choice. Instead of reacting from fear, you can act intentionally. You begin to understand why you discount, delay, overwork, shut down or scramble to catch up. these patterns become information to act on rather than self-criticism.
How these patterns affect your business
Pricing and how confidently you charge for your work
How you handle irregular income and cash flow
Setting boundaries with clients
How you cope with uncertainty and pressure
Decisions about saving, planning and buffering for lean months
How you treat yourself financially
Once you understand your patterns you begin making better financial decisions, setting clearer boundaries, and supporting yourself with steadier income rhythms.
A description of the patterns
Pleasing
Putting others first, struggling to say no and overspending to avoid conflict or disappointment.
Hustling
Pushing harder and harder to outrun money fear. Productivity becomes proof of worth. Rest feels unsafe.
Avoiding
Dodging finances because they feel overwhelming or shame-laden. Decisions get delayed until they become urgent.
Scrambling
Reacting in the moment, juggling crises, switching between ideas and never quite finding stable financial ground.
The Money Strain Pattern Assessment (coming soon)
Your Money Strain Patterns assessment includes twelve short questions that measure the four behaviours. Your scores will show which patterns are lighter or dominant.
It’s not about right or wrong. It’s about giving you a clear starting point for building financial calm, structure and confidence
Where to go next
Choose the next step that feels right for you
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