As mentioned a few weeks ago, we recently opened a vacation savings account. For some people, this might seem like a waste of money. I grew up in a poor household, where vacations were a luxury that only rich people could afford. Maybe you’re currently paying off debt, and vacations seem frivolous to you too. This is where finance gets personal. When deciding how to allocate your money, you will naturally spend your money on the things that matter most to you.
I am able to save money in many areas of my life. I don’t care about driving the latest vehicle, so I don’t spend a ton cars. In fact, I am perfectly content to drive my minivan until it can’t drive anymore. I don’t care about technology. Of course, I like my phone and computer, but I am not picky about brand names. I’ll take anything that works well and is reasonably priced. I don’t care about eating out. I like to go to restaurants occasionally, but the bill always makes me regret my decision. Was that dinner really worth $80? Probably not.
I am willing to be frugal in these different areas of my life, so that I will have the money to indulge in the things that truly bring me joy. Spending quality time with my children is my top priority right now. I understand how quickly these years are passing, and I want to give my kids amazing experiences that they will remember for the rest of their lives. Will they remember the toys we bought them for Kid’s Day? Probably not. Will they remember our trip to California last fall? Definitely.
Going on vacation with my family is one of the things in my life that motivates me to be frugal. Think about something you wish you had money to do and start working toward that goal. Being frugal is a means to an end. Make sure all of your hard work is going toward something that makes you happy! Remember, spend your money on the things that matter most to you.