It’s Not Just the Budget: The Emotional Math Behind Money Dysmorphia

We don’t just have money problems—we have money perception problems.

In Part 2 of our three-part Money Dysmorphia series with Backbone, I’m joined by Melissa Burleson, a certified financial counselor at Tarrant County’s Credit Union, who brings nearly 20 years of wisdom, service, and heart to this conversation.

Melissa knows firsthand how money dysmorphia—our distorted view of our financial reality—can sabotage even the smartest budgeter or most determined saver.

We talk about how money dysmorphia can swing both ways—from feeling constantly behind despite doing all the right things, to overspending and living beyond your means to project financial success. And Melissa shares powerful personal stories, real-life coaching moments, and practical tools to start shifting from emotional chaos to financial clarity.

You’ll walk away with:

A deeper understanding of the emotional triggers behind overspending and avoidance

How generational money beliefs and social media comparison fuel money dysmorphia

Why many people tie their self-worth to a credit score—and how to break that cycle

How to recognize when emotional thinking is clouding financial decisions

What it takes to move from “I’m bad with money” to “I trust myself with money”

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