Why Think of Thrift As an Opportunity, Not a Victim
We tend to think of budgeting and thrift as depriving ourselves. It might be more helpful to rethink how we think about reducing things. I love the way writer Joshua Becker says, “Your biggest expense is your greatest opportunity.”
In his Becoming Minimalist article, Becker discusses the downside of Stuff:
Of course, there is a direct link to the amount of things we own and the stress we experience. Each increase in obsession heightens anxiety in our lives. There is also a direct connection with excess possessions and a general lack of time, energy and attention. Your biggest investment also represents your greatest opportunity.
Think about the benefits of living in a small home : less cost, less anxiety, less maintenance – more time, more money, more freedom, and more options.
From a practical standpoint, Becker’s goal is to look at your biggest expenses and see how you can cut them. It’s like focusing your frugality on big wins — housing, transportation, and food .
Let’s say I spend $ 200 a month on fast food, which I don’t like at all, but for various reasons this is my weakness in spending. Rather than seeing waste reduction as an obstacle, I can see it as an opportunity to use that money for something more important to me. Yes, this is a small shift in thinking, but when it comes to financial management, it is very important.
In general, it is about learning to be more attentive and resourceful. Ingenuity changes the way you think about dealing cards, and it can make a huge difference in your financial life.
If we can try to look at our obstacles in terms of opportunity and growth, we will put ourselves in a position of control. And when it comes to managing your money, resourcefulness and control are everything.
To find out more, navigate to Becker’s full post below.
Your Biggest Costs – Your Best Opportunity | Become a minimalist
Photo by Jeff Jevdet.