Alexander GreenIn these uncertain economic times we could all use a boost of confidence.  In my interview with Alexander Green about his new book entitled “The Secret of Shelter Island” that is exactly what you will receive.  Alex has a great perspective on how to look differently at our current economic meltdown (as the media often refer to it).  He states that we have the opportunity to reassess our entire life and re-prioritize what is important in our lives.  This is our opportunity to look inside and have a spiritual awakening to what really is valuable for us. Is it our bank accounts? Or is it the people and relationships around us that truly enrich our lives and bring us fulfillment and meaning?

Alex’s book is primarily a compilation of essays from his newsletter entitled Spiritual Wealth, a newsletter that he has been writing for a number of years. He says that it is only human to want to better our material conditions, but ironically the relentless quest for more often undermines our quality of life.  The truth is successful lives are built, not bought, and the over consumptive lifestyle ultimately limits our choices.

In my interview with Alex we explore this idea of “not-enoughness,” and what it has done to our culture and how is has depleted our souls. How this ever-persistent pursuit of more has really helped to create the challenging economic times we are experiencing.  In the continual pursuit of greater material success some of us lose important relationships, our health, our perspective, our peace of mind.  Alex says that our happiness is highly dependent on principle-centered living.  The secret to balance. Pursue your financial ambitions, but take time to appreciate your health, friends, family are the world around you.

In this interview we have the opportunity to explore how to shift our perspectives and relationship with money as well truly examine what might have greater significance for us.

I love a quote the Alex uses in the book by J. Brotherton and it says “My riches consist not in the extent of my possessions, but in the fewness of my wants.”  How true this is, and how important to remember as we navigate these interesting economic times.
Alex has written a wonderful book which will help anyone who reads it identify just what truly could be causing their financial challenges, and in so doing provides the reader with the opportunity to learn how to close the gap between their wants and needs.

If you would like to lean more about Alex’s interesting newsletters, columns and other books please visit his website.