Severance & Personal Finance: Don’t Sever Your Present and Future Self
Apple TV’s Severance is one of the most thought-provoking shows in recent years, exploring the eerie concept of completely separating work and personal life. But beyond the psychological twists and corporate dystopia, Severance holds some surprising lessons about personal finance. Just like the employees at Lumon, many of us compartmentalize different parts of our financial lives — sometimes to our own detriment. Let’s explore how the themes of the show can help us rethink our approach to money.
1. The Outie vs. The Innie: Your Present vs. Future Self
In Severance, employees undergo a procedure that creates two versions of themselves: an “innie” who only exists at work and an “outie” who lives life outside the office, with no memory of what happens at Lumon. This concept mirrors the way many people view their finances — separating their present and future selves.
It’s easy to make financial choices that serve only right now (impulse spending, neglecting savings) while ignoring how those choices impact your future self. But your future self is still you. Instead of operating like an “innie” and pushing financial responsibility onto your future self, integrate financial steps that serve both versions of you. That means:
Spending on things that bring you joy today while also saving for long-term goals.
Automating savings and investments so your future self reaps the rewards.
Setting realistic budgets that allow flexibility but still build wealth over time.
Your financial future shouldn’t be a mystery. Bring your present and future selves into alignment to build a life of both joy and security!
2. Job Dependency and Financial Freedom
[Spoiler!] In season 2, Dylan had no control over his work situation, and when he struggled to find a job outside of Lumon, he appeared to have minimal or no financial cushion to fall back on. On the other hand, Ms. Cobel walked away on her own terms. This is a perfect metaphor for the role financial security plays in career decisions.
If you’re living paycheck to paycheck with no savings, you may feel stuck in a job that no longer serves you. Financial freedom — built through emergency funds, smart investing, and mindful spending — gives you the power to decide when to stay and when to move on.
Your job should be a choice, not a prison sentence. Prioritize building an emergency fund, so you can walk away if you ever find yourself in a toxic or unfulfilling work environment.
3. Blindly Following a System Without Questioning It
The employees at Lumon don’t question their work, their conditions, or even why they do what they do. Many people follow traditional financial advice in the same way…without stopping to evaluate if it actually aligns with their goals.
“Buy a house because it’s the American dream.” But does homeownership make sense for your lifestyle and financial situation?
“Go into debt for college no matter what.” But have you explored alternative paths that might cost less?
“Stick with a 9-to-5 job forever.” But could freelancing, side hustles, or entrepreneurship bring you more fulfillment and growth?
Just because something is common doesn’t mean it’s right for you. Question financial norms, think critically, and create a money plan that aligns with your values and goals.
4. The Illusion of Work-Life Separation and the Myth of “I’ll Start Later”
The idea of completely separating work from life is unsettling in Severance, but in real life, work and money impact every aspect of our lives. Similarly, many people delay financial planning, telling themselves they’ll “start later.”
“I’ll start saving when I make more money.”
“I’ll invest when I understand it better.”
The truth? Later never comes unless you make it happen. Money isn’t a separate part of life — it affects your choices, security, and opportunities every single day. Start now, even with small steps, and watch your confidence and financial wellness expand.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Sever Your Financial Future
If there’s one thing Severance teaches us, it’s that disconnecting parts of your life can have dangerous consequences. The same applies to money — your future self depends on the actions you take today.
Make financial choices that balance joy now and security later.
Build an emergency fund so you’re never trapped in a toxic job.
Question outdated financial advice and design a path that works for you.
Stop waiting — your financial future starts now.
Unlike the employees at Lumon, you have the power to take control of your finances. Align your present and future, and craft a life that supports all versions of you.