Unpacking the Money Lies That Keep Public Safety Pros Broke
You’ve been risking your life. Solving problems society created.
And getting paid like you’re expendable.
But let’s get real. Your money problems didn’t start with your paycheck.
They started with what you were taught to believe about money in the first place.
“Just work hard, and everything will be fine.”
That’s what they told you, right?
Put in your time. Overtime if you have to. Be dependable. Be loyal.
But here’s the truth no one likes to say out loud:
Hard work without a wealth strategy just makes you tired and broke.
The Lie Behind the Badge (or the Business)
Whether you’re in uniform or running a business, many of us were trained to serve but never taught to build.
The system doesn’t want you wealthy.
It wants you obedient.
Public safety folks like cops, medics, and firefighters are handed a playbook that teaches self-sacrifice over self-worth.
Entrepreneurs are told to “grind it out” until one day, magically, things work out.
They rarely do.
Because if your mindset around money is jacked up,
it doesn’t matter how many hours you work.
Your bank account will reflect your beliefs.
Here’s what you might’ve heard growing up:
- “Money is evil.”
- “Rich people are greedy.”
- “We can’t afford that.”
- “That’s not for people like us.”
- “Be grateful you even have a job.”
Sound familiar?
Those are lies. Designed to keep you small.
And they still live in your decisions today whether you know it or not.
So, let’s flip the script.
This week, I want you to ask yourself one question every time you make a money-related decision:
“Who told me that?”
That fear of raising your rates?
That resistance to investing?
That shame when you want more?
Ask: Who told me that?
Was it someone broke? Bitter? Burned out?
Was it someone trying to keep you safe or stuck?
You Don’t Need Permission to Value Yourself
You’re not selfish for wanting more.
You’re strategic.
Because money in the hands of people who serve and lead with heart?
That’s how communities change.
So this week, you’re on assignment:
- Write down every negative money phrase you’ve ever heard.
- Highlight the ones you still believe.
- Decide which ones to burn. Figuratively or literally.
And if you’re ready to replace those lies with strategies that work, stick around. We’re only getting started.
