Wants vs. needs

Many people live paycheck to paycheck or live in debt.

Most people have enough money to meet all of their needs.

Sometime in grade school you learned the difference between wants and needs. Needs are basic food, shelter, transportation, clothing. (not expensive items.) Wants are almost anything else.

In this very materialistic society we live in, it is easy to forget that we really need very little. We want so much more.

There is nothing wrong with spending money on wants. As long as you realize that your cable, kids soccer, expensive coat and dinner out are all wants.

However, if your "wants" are taking over (more on prioritizing tomorrow), then it may be time to remember how little you may really need.

Frugal can be fun

Every day, I hear people grump about the economy.

Yes, it sucks! Yes, we hope it gets better.

However, learning to be more frugal can actually be enjoyable. It can allow you and your family to redefine your priorities and put what is really important in perspective.

If you are already frugal, guess what, we are "cooler" now!

If you are learning to be (more) frugal, remember the following:

F is for figuring out your priorities
R is for being realistic about what you spend and what things cost
U is for understanding where your money goes
G is for giving. Being frugal allows many of us to give back to others.
A is for accepting the gifts you have
L is for Living and Loving Life.