Modest or Perfect: Are You Within Your Means

The perfect person does not exist. We have these crazy standards of beauty and excellence that only serve to drive people crazy. We have people who are digging themselves in debt for material things just to fit in and play a role or show an image.

I watch Suze Orman from time to time and I like her show. I think more people need to watch it and be realistic with themselves on their finances. Why are we buying expensive cell phones if we can't afford to buy lunch? Furthermore, shouldn't we walk with lunch so that we can splurge on something nice every month? Better yet, why can't we save that money.

When my car broke down, everyone had the most advice for me. Of course, I actually listened and then I sold the car. The repair would cost more than the deposit on a new car so I had to make a choice. I catch the bus now and I cut down on window-shopping and being up and down all over the place spending money. Most people frown on catching the bus but I no longer worry about brakes, tires, car insurance or the soaring gas prices. I learn to make do, tag along if necessary and plan my trips.

Plus I think I adjust to situations wells - in most cases. I am a complainer because I just can't take too much nonsense. However, when it comes to finances, I make do and make things happen to work in my favor. I don't beg, I don't steal and I try my best not to be a bother to the people around me.

I don't mix money with friends at all. I like to know that we can help each other and I am willing to help in any way I can. I have very good people around me and I am thankful to God for them. However, we all have that one or two around us who like to borrow money. Some borrow because they are in tight situations and there are others who live beyond their means and use someone else to catch up.

We all can be financially enabled but we have to make tough decisions. I shop at sales - from the grocery, clothing stores, yard sales, etc. I have to find ways to make ends meet. I walk with luch everyday and if I do need to buy food, I opt to have a slice of pizza or something under $5. I would have liked a parttime job but with my children I have to make time for them. So I prefer an online writing gig so that I can work from home.

If we want to have the awesome material things, we have to make serious decisions. Perfection can never be attained. Live comfortably while setting realistic savings goals and stay out of deep debt. A mortgage or a land loan is a much better investment than a $30K SUV. Getting a loan and using the money for saving while accelerating the loan payments are better than buying 3 tvs for one home.

Motto - live within your means.

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