Some people are so frugal they will not spend money on things that make them happy. Some people care little about cost and spend on whatever they want to be happy. This post will explore which one will make you happy and which one might be best for you.
The ultra frugal route, such as discussed on sites like Wise Bread, tells you how to do everything in your power to cut spending. This can be as simple as using grocery coupons or as extreme as changing your commute or lowering your water heater temperature. I always try out what they say on Wise Bread, but only keep part of what they say in my daily life. At 120 degrees, my shower ran out of hot water much faster. Driving slower does not bother me, but my girlfriend gets antsy. Some of their tips are great, but diving in can be tough.
The ultra spending route is much worse in my opinion. While every once in a while I “binge” on spending and buy a DVD that is on sale at Target, I am usually pretty good. Just buying whatever you want is how the United States got into a credit crunch in the first place. People bought what they could not afford. Definitely a bad option.
Like everything in life, I suggest something in the middle. Actively control your spending. Set your thermostat on a schedule to lower the temperature when you are gone at work. Change your light bulbs to CFCs. Cook instead of go out. Take your lunch to work. Those things all add up. But, every once in a while, it is nice to take your loved one out on a nice date. If you can’t enjoy your money, what is the point in earning it? Just spend it wisely so you can enjoy it that much more.
