But really, #6 and #7 are the biggest ones. My family values education, social service, and art. I was raised from a young age to choose my education and career path based on contributing to society, not making money. My family believes that if you work just to make money, you are shallow, selfish, and morally bankrupt. I’ve spoken with friends who are also from Irish Catholic families, and I’m starting to think it’s cultural.

My husband and I have very rewarding jobs that will never earn us much money. All of my relatives are teachers or artists, so we fit right in, but my in-laws are immigrants, and they are exclusively committed to making as much money as possible. They’ve really done it, too. I respect what they’ve done for improving their family’s lot, but I must admit that I look down on their McMansions and fancy cars. I can’t imagine what they think of us.

As for feeling like you’re not good enough – I think women are raised to believe it isn’t nice to think highly of ourselves, so we’re overly modest. We’re not allowed to brag or make others feel bad by being better than them. Of course, not all women feel this way, but I think it’s a general trait that’s common among women. For example, I’ve read articles that say we’re not as likely to ask for raises as men are. Something to consider…

I believe that you are good enough! Over the time that I’ve been reading your blog I’ve seen the effort that you put in to getting out of debt. That effort alone is enough for me to see that you deserve any money that you set your sights on and get.