Meaning: The quote "People first, then money, then things" by Suze Orman, a well-known financial advisor and author, encapsulates a fundamental principle of personal finance and life priorities. Suze Orman is recognized for her expertise in money management and her straightforward approach to financial planning. In this quote, she emphasizes the importance of placing people and relationships above material wealth and possessions, suggesting that true fulfillment and happiness stem from prioritizing human connections over financial gain.

The first part of the quote, "People first," underscores the significance of prioritizing relationships and human connections. Orman's emphasis on people as the foremost priority serves as a reminder that meaningful relationships, whether with family, friends, or community, are vital to overall well-being. By prioritizing people, individuals can cultivate a support system, find joy in shared experiences, and build a sense of belonging. This prioritization also extends to self-care and personal growth, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance and nurturing one's emotional and mental well-being.

Following the prioritization of people, the quote continues with "then money." Here, Orman acknowledges the role of money as a crucial aspect of life but emphasizes that it should come after people in terms of importance. Money is a tool that enables individuals to provide for themselves and their loved ones, access opportunities, and achieve financial security. By placing money second, Orman suggests that financial wealth should serve as a means to support and enhance human connections rather than overshadowing them. This prioritization encourages individuals to approach their financial decisions with a focus on how money can contribute to a fulfilling and purposeful life, rather than viewing it as the ultimate goal in itself.

Finally, the quote concludes with "then things," highlighting the least important aspect in the sequence. "Things" refer to material possessions and the accumulation of wealth for the sole purpose of acquiring goods. Orman's prioritization of things last in the sequence emphasizes that material possessions, while providing comfort and convenience, should not take precedence over people and financial well-being. By placing things at the end of the sequence, Orman encourages individuals to avoid excessive consumerism and instead focus on experiences, relationships, and personal growth as sources of fulfillment and happiness.

Overall, Suze Orman's quote encapsulates a holistic approach to life and personal finance, emphasizing the interconnectedness of people, money, and material possessions. By prioritizing people first, she underscores the value of meaningful relationships and personal well-being. Placing money second acknowledges its role in supporting a fulfilling life, while relegating things to the last position highlights the potential pitfalls of materialism and the pursuit of possessions at the expense of more meaningful priorities.

Suze Orman's perspective on prioritizing people, money, and things aligns with the principles of conscious and mindful living, encouraging individuals to consider the broader impacts of their financial decisions on their relationships, well-being, and overall satisfaction with life. This quote serves as a reminder to reevaluate our priorities and strive for a balanced approach that places human connections and personal fulfillment at the forefront of our lives, while utilizing money and possessions as tools to support those priorities.

In conclusion, Suze Orman's quote "People first, then money, then things" offers a thought-provoking perspective on the hierarchy of priorities in life and personal finance. It encourages individuals to consider the broader significance of their choices and to prioritize human connections, financial well-being, and personal fulfillment in their decision-making processes. By embracing this philosophy, individuals can strive for a more balanced and meaningful approach to life and money management.