Wants vs. Need

Wants vs. needs is doable. I am trying with every bit of what's inside of me to support my son in this illness, and keep him alive. It's taking everything I have in me most of the time. I honestly think about every dollar I have to spend, because I have no idea what condition he could be in tomorrow. Luckily, I do know how to do this--but even with luck and the ability to make a dollar stretch to it's limits, it's still tough. I do think that people who know how to do things, such as shop for foods, cook, take care of what they have, etc. have a much better shot at doing wants vs. needs if they know how to be independent and know how to NOT waste money. A lot of people in today's world seem...well, rather entitled. I hear a lot of ''well, I don't need this, but I want it. I work hard, I deserve it.'' Which works if you can afford it, I guess, but if you can't and you buy it anyway, or spend foolishly, what you do just digs you in deeper. You seem like a very smart young woman with a lot of determination, you've got this.

Pretty and I have been forced into a need only mode for three years now. It is entirely doable. It's not fun but it is doable. Good luck with it!

It is doable. I feel that you need to balance out your wants and needs, too. When you want something, think, do I need it? And, if it's something you need (like food or clothing) be kind to yourself. Be willing to treat yourself occassionally by getting something you want, that can work as a need.

Oh, it’s definitely doable. I always think about that line in a song Linda Ronstadt did (“The Cost of Love”): “What you need, what you want, are not the same thing.” My brother was on me for years to move, but I told him that I have everything I need — including no house payment — where I am, so why? Good luck!

I concentrate on the needs first

you control your money ALWAYS works in my book till something pops up unexpected & THEN your like FLIP, but we're getting better at things.

We have many want/needs for our home, but have to prioritize on what can be put off t he easiest and the longest. It is amazing what you can do in that situation, though.

It is very doable and a good way to look at it with does the money control you or do you control the money!!

It used to be that way. It can be done.

It is totally doable. You will hear it in your own words, when you realize that you haven't debt and that you have money to pay cash for large purchases as well as investments. We have been doing this for about 7 years now, it is great.

It is doable. But I enjoy getting some wants

I think that it's doable! It’s a mindset shift more than anything. Once you get used to prioritizing needs over wants, it becomes second nature

It's definitely doable. I rarely buy anything that I want...usually just buy what I need.

It's doable, but so is having some luxuries and wants. You know I am no stranger to saving, being frugal, and cutting costs wherever I can, but I also live by a mantra that says, "Save on the things you need so you can afford the things you want." Money doesn't have to control you to the point you can't enjoy some of it, so long as you have enough to be secure AND happy. More than that, what the key is, is finding ways for your money to allow you the freedoms to have what you want. When I bought our camper, for example, I didn't pay for it. My money paid for it. There's a difference.

Yes, smart people take control of their financial future.

If I know you Angie, this is doable. Yes of course because you have the will. I have so very little here and I am glad about it. Also yes, spending only for what is necessary is very good.

I keep a tight budget and only allow myself to get some stuff when I have Amazon gift cards.

I am not that much into material possessions. That helps me save money.

I'm sure it's doable and as soon as you start seeing results, it will become easier and easier.

I do my best to buy items that I need since I am better off eating and drinking than being entertained.