FINANCIAL LITERACY - WANTS AND NEEDS
July 10, 2017
We all have things we need, and we need to pay for them. Healthful, nutritious food, A roof over our heads, clothing to keep us warm or dry. In this era, we need other basics, like health insurance, education, transportation. These are tangibles. And must be paid for. Sometimes directly, sometimes through taxes.
Other needs are maybe not so tangible, that is, we can't purchase them. Clean water, clean air, beauty, justice, friendship, peace, love, safety, respect.
And there are things that are for sale that we might want, but we don't need. I love cookies, too. And I love to buy things for my home. But buying these things without a plan is just reckless. Remember, the little numbers add up.
Make your budget, map out your wants and needs. Pay for the things you need. Pay down your debt. Figure out how much college will cost for your kids, if that's in their future. Decide if you really need that expensive vacation, or is there another way you can have fun and relax?
Do you have a "fun bank?" Do you have an emergency fund?
Learning the difference between want and need is one of the hardest lessons, and one of the most rewarding.
I use my "fun bank" for cookies. And sometimes, for having friends over for a little tea party. That's fun too.