Buyer Beware

Change your attitude about money.


Too often we get hooked in to buying more than we need or better than we need: I need a pair of pants to work around the house—nothing fancy. I end up buying a new pair of jeans or kakis. Something from a garage sale or thrift shop would work just fine, but my mind set is “MALL” and at the mall I’m going to find a name brand and pay full price. I’ll end up with an expensive pair of pants that are too nice for my purpose.

Or the cars we drive? We all want new or better. Instead keep in mind what will do the job and what’s affordable. Some occupations require an impressive car (or suit)—but do you have that occupation? If you don’t then go with what is adequate. Don’t let better rob you of best.

Before buying anything, look at what you need and what will do. I’m not going to say secondhand and used is always the way to go. I’m saying think before you buy. Get what you need. —What you save can go a long way towards easing unexpected challenges that come up.