What each "Tortured Poets" song says about your money style

Imagine finding pearls of wealth and wisdom between the lines of poignant poetry. That's what we found in the lyrics of "Tortured Poets Department," the eleventh studio album from pop megastar Taylor Swift. How we respond to different types of music can reveal a lot about our personalities. And personality can often influence how we think about – and manage – our money. 

From impulsive spenders to meticulous planners, the “Tortured Poets Department” anthology offers a vast landscape of financial personas. Ready to explore how the words from a bona fide billionaire might help you reflect and refine your money management style?

Tune in, and let's uncover the financial easter eggs waiting to be discovered behind Taylor Swift’s music.

1. The Good Neighbor - "Fortnight" (Ft. Post Malone)

Lyric snippet: "Now you're in my backyard, turned into good neighbors"

If this line resonates, you probably value investing in strong community relationships. You might engage in local groups and activities and appreciate contributing to your neighborhood.

In the financial world, the Good Neighbor persona values property, relationships, and building community. They might enjoy contributing to the betterment of their neighborhood, perhaps organizing community events or volunteering their money or services locally. 

Next steps: Continue nurturing these ties. But also remember to prioritize self-care and establish boundaries when needed. Avoid over-committing financially, buying property outside your means, or giving away too much of your time for free. Keep balance as a goal. 

2. The Methodical Planner - "The Tortured Poets Department"

Lyric snippet: "Calculating moves, writing my future in prose."

The meticulous side of you may handle finances with great accuracy and thoughtfulness. Stable financial health is a priority, and you likely maintain a well-structured budget, making decisions based on in-depth analysis to amplify every cent you earn.

Next steps: Go over your savings and investment strategies often, and consider acquiring professional advice to further refine your financial plan.

3. The Spontaneous Buyer - "My Boy Only Breaks His Favorite Toys"

Lyric snippet: "My boy only breaks his favorite toys"

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Instinctive and living in the moment, your spontaneous consumption aligns with your immediate desires, reflecting your vibrant spirit. Although this lifestyle is thrilling, it's important to consider how it can enhance your financial well-being in the long run.

Next steps: Initiate a budget tracker to record your spending and allocate a specific sum for impromptu purchases to maintain financial health. Let the concept of wants vs. needs be your guide. 

4. The Debt Strategist - "Down Bad"

Lyric snippet: "Did you take all my old clothes?"

You value your possessions and can be sentimental. Your eyes are sometimes larger than your wallet. But you are also pragmatic, striving to eliminate or minimize debt while aiming for financial solidity. You might also see some types of debt as a financial instrument rather than a liability. 

Next steps: Explore options for consolidating your debts and consider consulting an expert. Stay motivated to achieve your goal.

5. The Wistful Investor - "So Long, London"

Lyric snippet: "You sacrificed us to the gods of your bluest days"

Your decisions are largely influenced by nostalgia and past experiences. You may be hesitant to take risks and prefer to stick to what you know. But you’re also often a dreamer.

Next steps: Consider seeking financial advice to explore new investment opportunities that align with your personal values and goals. Don't let fear hold you back from potential growth.

6. The Colorful Spender - "But Daddy I Love Him"

Lyric snippet: "If all you want is gray for me then it's just white noise"

You live life colorfully, unapologetically indulging in your passions and desires. As a colorful spender, you may prioritize experiences over material possessions and enjoy splurging on things that bring you joy.

Next steps: Embrace your authentic self but create a budget for the things that truly make you happy, while also being mindful of saving for the future.

7. The Hard Worker - "Fresh Out the Slammer"

Lyric snippet: "Years of labor, locks, and ceilings"

You have a strong work ethic and are highly motivated to achieve financial success. You may prioritize career growth and stability over other life goals.

Next steps: Keep up the hard work, but also remember to find balance in your life by taking breaks and enjoying the fruits of your labor. Consider diversifying your income streams for added security.

8. The Jetset Spender - "Florida!!!"

Lyric snippet: "I need to forget, so take me to Florida"

You have a love for travel and are always seeking new experiences and adventures. Your spending habits may reflect this, with a significant portion of your budget dedicated to trips or vacations.

Next steps: Continue exploring the world, but also consider ways to save on expenses. Try using credit card rewards, saving in high-yield savings accounts, or seeking out more affordable accommodations. Make sure to balance your vacation spending with other financial goals.

9. The Dedicated Saver - "Guilty as Sin?"

Lyric snippet: "I keep these longings lockеd, in lowercase, inside a vault"

You are disciplined in your saving habits and prioritize financial security. You may have a hefty emergency fund and actively contribute to retirement accounts.

Next steps: Keep up the great work of saving, but also consider diversifying your investments and finding ways to make your money work for you through different avenues such as real estate or stocks. Don't forget to reward yourself from time to time for your frugal habits.

10. The Breadwinner - "Who’s Afraid of Little Old Me?"

Lyric snippet: "But my bare hands paved their paths."

As the breadwinner, you take pride in your role of providing for yourself and loved ones. You work hard and are dedicated to maintaining financial stability for your family.

Next steps: Continue to prioritize financial security, but also make sure to find a balance between work and personal life. Consider ways to delegate tasks and responsibilities so you can have some time for self-care and relaxation

11. The Optimistic Planner - "I Can Fix Him (No Really I Can)"

Lyric snippet: "They shake their heads sayin', "God, help her"When I tell 'em he's my man"

You are optimistic and believe in the power of positive thinking. Your financial planning is often guided by this optimism, with a belief that things will work out in your favor.

Next steps: Continue to maintain a positive mindset, but also consider potential risks and setbacks when making financial decisions. It's important to have a backup plan and emergency fund for unexpected situations.

12. The Committed Saver - "LOML" (Love of My Life)

Lyric snippet: "I said, "I don't mind, it takes time"

Showing dedication to your financial goals, you prioritize saving and investing for long-term growth. Your disciplined approach keeps you committed to your plans.

Next steps: Keep it up! Consider diversifying your investments and reassess your budget regularly.

13. The Resilient Builder - "I Can Do it With a Broken Heart" (Bonus)

Lyric snippet: "Cause I'm a real tough kid."

You are resilient and determined, able to push through challenges and setbacks. Your financial journey may have had its ups and downs, but you always find a way to make things work.

Next steps: Keep up the determination, but also remember to take care of your mental health and seek support. You don’t have to do it all by yourself!

14. The Goal Getter - "Clara Bow"

Lyric snippet: "I'm not trying to exaggeratе But I think I might die if I made it, die if I made it"

You are ambitious and motivated to achieve your goals, whether it's financial success or personal aspirations. You may push yourself to the limit in pursuit of these goals.

Next steps: Keep striving for success, remember to take breaks and maintain a healthy work-life balance. It's also important to enjoy the journey rather than solely focusing on the end result. 

15. The Practical Preparer - "The Smallest Man Who Ever Lived" 

Lyric snippet: "You crashed my party and your rental car"

As a practical preparer, you prioritize planning for the future and saving for unexpected expenses. You may also have an emergency fund and insurance policies in place. You're ready if disaster strikes.

Next steps: Keep up with your preparedness, but also make sure to enjoy life in the present and find a balance between budgeting and splurging on things you love.

16. The Confident Trader - "The Alchemy" 

Lyric snippet: "But I'm making a comeback to where I belong" 

As a confident trader, you are not afraid to take risks and jump into new opportunities. You may have a strong understanding of the market and use your confidence to make bold financial decisions.

Next steps: Continue to trust your instincts, but also remember the importance of diversifying your investments and staying informed on market trends. Don't let overconfidence lead to careless mistakes.

Each of us has a unique relationship with money, influenced by our upbringing, experiences, and personality traits. By exploring these poetic personas, we might gain a better understanding of our financial habits and make informed decisions to improve our overall financial well-being.

Whether you identify as the Good Neighbor or the Confident Trader, remember to always prioritize self-awareness and balance in your financial journey.

Happy exploring!

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This blog post is provided "as is" and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional advice. Some content in this post may have been created using artificial intelligence; however, every blog post is reviewed by at least two human editors.