While we DINKs are certainly into being frugal where it counts, it is also prudent to know when to let money issues go. Here are a few of our thoughts on areas where it can help to throw money at a problem.
Here are a few examples:
1) Putting you best face forward. They don’t just say that for no reason. When you are like me and you have an interview for Monday (yeah!) it is helpful to make sure to have your game on. This means to prepared with not only good answers and knowledge of who you are interviewing with, but also to look and feel professional to increase your confidence and look your best. For me this has meant doing a mock interview with a career coach this morning and getting my hair cut this afternoon (after having put it off since July!).
2) Friends and Family. As a rule I would say that when money is going to fail a relationship with friends or family, it can be better to throw money at the problem then to perpetuate the issue. However, I would also advise that you are best off to avoid areas of conflict with friends and money by not getting into money issues in the first place. My mom taught me the lesson early on never to loan out something that you weren’t willing to loose. This also means avoiding situations where repayment might become a problem. If you are fine with paying for your friend’s movie ticket, then go ahead and buy two. But if you think repayment might be an issue, it is better not to set yourself up for conflict. This goes both ways, in not entering into situations where you might owe someone else as well.
3) Personal safety and security should also not be skimped on. For instance, when I was originally headed back to Afghanistan the security situation had been declining quickly. James decided it was best to send me back with a custom made bullet proof jacket that can be worn daily and not be obviously. More applicable to most folks would be to make sure that you have good locks, good tires on your cars, etc.
4) Education is also a must in our books. If you look at salary stats getting an advanced degree will in most cases pay for itself and then some over time. Education is not an area to skimp. In undergrad I could have chosen to go to a cheaper school and not work two jobs to pay for my education, but I certainly wouldn’t be in the place I am today.
5) Quality food is essential. This can often cost a bit more, but it is worth it. If you look at the long-term benefits in terms of health and productivity, you are much better taking care of yourself and eating right.
6) What matters most to you. Let’s face it, we all have our own priorities on where we’d like to spend our money. It might be comfortable shoes or undergarments the make you a little less self-conscious going through security with your big toe sticking out the end. Decide what areas are important to you, and don’t beat yourself up about spending a little more on where you find value.
Readers: We’d love to hear your suggestions on where you think it makes sense to spend a little more.
Best,
Miel
No Comments yet!