Which Shoe Are You? Women and Their Money

Every woman loves shoes, right? At least the ones I know! So, what do your shoes say about you? Your purchases? Your ‘buying’ attitude? And your relationship with MONEY? IS there a relationship between the shoes you wear and how you feel about your money? Let’s see. Did you know the foot has more bones than any other single part of the body? Amazing! Shoes were intended to protect and give comfort to our feet. They are also used as decoration. They have the sole, insole, outsole, midsole, heel (no, not the jerk you dated last year!), vamp, and the outside. Gee, I simply love the way they look on my foot! My research tells me that women and men view and spend money differently. Women are conditioned to look for approval. They view money as a means to nurture their environment (happiness) and build a specific lifestyle. Their typical mindset revolves around money being a here-and-now thing. On the other hand, men are trained to provide security. They view money as a means to build value, stocks, bonds, real estate. Typically, they don’t spend. They invest. They base their money decisions on what they need, not want. Their typical mindset revolves around the future. So much as the statement, ‘we are intricately entwined with our spending habits,’ I believe this can be found out by the typical shoes we wear or at least buy.

 

Here are 5 'shoe types' and what that say about your Money DNA:

1. High heel pump.

   You love fashion more than comfort. You typically dress for other women as well as a few select men You like it when people have to look up to you OR you can look them straight in the eye. You don’t mind a risk - who cares if you fall off your stilettos - at least you looked good going down!

   Money DNA - This woman engages in money habits reflecting what she wants and who notices. These two considerations constantly come into conflict. It may take time but she will choose her purchase wisely. She values the money she earns and expects it to show off her money smarts.

2. Flats.

   This includes deck shoes, and penny-loafers. You prefer a mixed style of looking good but won’t compromise on comfort being first. You have a flare for entertainment. You love attention. You need ease of movement.

   Money DNA: This woman is what I call the ‘quiet shopper.’ She goes unnoticed spying what she wants. She has expensive taste, but weighs it against how long her purchase will last, what it will do for her and if it ever goes out of style. This woman values her money and at the same time wants her surroundings to support her taste. She expects her money to work for her.

3. Sneakers.

   You know and go after what you want. No time to waste casually browsing. You prefer to make a decision without the advice of others. You’re the woman who tells the sales gal to get lost! Besides, there’s usually somewhere else you prefer to be - sooner than later! You’re a woman on the go and nothing slows you down.

   Money DNA: This woman loves a good deal! No ‘salesy’ person can put one over on her. She takes her money power seriously. Her buys tend to be practical but she doesn’t let practicality confine her. She still has a good eye for style, worth and appreciation.

4. Sandals.

   I throw flipflops and clogs into this category. You want tons of space and time to make your decision. You take the saying, ‘a woman can change her mind anytime she pleases,’ to heart. Walking around the store with arms full, or 20 brochures of your next car purchase are not unusual.

   Money DNA: This woman can fall victim to impulse buying if she isn’t careful. How? She has too many choices and takes them all. She is carefree in life adding to her indecision about a purchase.

5. Boots.

   This includes work boots, fashion boots, and snow boots. You have a tendency to show off. And why not? The boot is fashionable, attention-getting and turns heads in a room or on the runway. You love the extra leather it takes to cover your great legs! It leaves a little curiosity to the beholder. You get the best of both worlds, shoes and socks. And, you don’t have to shave your legs!

   Money DNA: This woman values ‘value’ and is willing to pay for it. She respects the quality and function of her money. She has a hidden savings for a rainy day. A nest egg she regularly funds. She is patient with her purchases looking beyond the immediate reason she buys.

6. Bonus Shoe: Cleated shoes.

   You know, spikes; rugby, golf, and baseball shoes. You have a real desire for freedom. You get where you need to go without help. You’re independent, active and readily test the waters. Perseverance is one of your strongest qualities.

   Money DNA: If this woman really wants something she will get it. No matter what it takes. She sets high standards for how she spends her money. She views her money as a means to an end. Money is supposed to get her somewhere if she is smart with it.

Almost all women have several of these shoes, but you still have a preference for one or the other. What’s in your closet or should I say on your shoe rack? These are generalities, but seriously, if the shoe fits, wear it! I do and I love my deck shoes, how about you?

[Editor's Note: This is only one of the many powerful articles in this week's Influence It! Real Power for Women free ezine. To enjoy the full issue, jam packed with insightful information on strategies to enhance your personal and professional life to achieve ultimate success, you must be a subscriber. Sign up for your own free subscription NOW by clicking here!]