Hello,
I just need to vent as I have been thinking about this topic for the past few hours.:
I grew up poor and thus have always been frugal. I was involved with a start up that failed where I ended up being on my life savings for a year and a half. It was a great experience but naturally I went in ultra frugal mode, like literally comparing prices to the cent. I now have a six figure job and became 100% debt free few months back after my first paycheck (finally decided to pay off student loans). Even after the job I still moved to a lower income but very safe neighbourhood with a 10 minutes commute to improve quality of life but also to save money. I drive a dented up 17 year old car which I am actually quite proud of, always shop around for best price for things although with more of a buy it for life philosophy.
I still have that mindset of when I was on my life savings. Which can be a good thing to save even more but here lies my main problem. Let's say I find out I could have saved $1 by buying item A at another store instead. Realistically, it is not worth going through the hassle to return an item to the other store especially with the time wasted driving to the place, then waiting in line, transportation associated costs etc which end up costing more than the $1 saved itself. I don't return the item but it will bug me for a good few minutes that I could have saved X $ amount. It is so damn silly and really frustrating me.
I am all about life optimization and it such a waste of few precious minutes being stressed/sad/worried/disappointed over saving a few bucks after making a purchase. I just want to be slightly more care free because we only have one life. I have a dear friend that has cancer for the 3rd time right now and in comparison my problem is so trivial.
That leads to the general problem. Everything has a cost, whether it be money or time. What is that healthy balance in terms of mindset? I try my absolute best to purchase items that I absolutely need unless it is an investment in my personal growth. However, I still want to enjoy life and not be trapped about saving few dollars here and there and even treat my self. I will spend a bit (not excessive) on my friends/family with no guilt as it gives me joy but when it comes to myself, there is often guilt.
Love to read your thoughts!
August 26, 2017 at 05:08PM
