One of my favorite topics to teach about is the concept of spending money to save money. This was a topic that I thought that I thoroughly understood because my father always emphasized the importance of the concept. However, about a month ago, I seemed to forget the lesson I know so well.
I had the opportunity to purchase a Shinola watch at a 20% discount, but only for a limited time. Shinola watches are huge in Detroit because they are locally made and are very cute. I wanted this watch for almost a year! Once I had the opportunity to buy one at a discount, I started to save the money. I definitely wasn’t going to charge it! I figured since I would eventually purchase one anyway, I should just do it sooner while I had the discount. Once I had the money, I quickly made the investment in the new watch.
You are probably thinking, “If you saved up, then what’s the big deal?” Well, my situation changed between the time that I started saving and when I ultimately purchased the watch, and I refused to admit that I needed to adapt. Instead of buying the watch, I actually should have either invested the money into my business or purchased a new iPad since my current iPad no longer charges. Given that I work in coffee shops quite often, the best choice would have been buying the iPad. The sad thing is that I haven’t even worn the watch yet although I bought it about 4 weeks ago. To further complicate matters, the watch is too big and I haven’t had the time to go to the store to get a few links removed.
I share this story with you to show that it isn’t enough to just save up for a large purchase. You always have to continue to evaluate your current and expected financial situation. I was too focused on the limited window where I could get 20% off, that I blinded myself to my financial reality – that I actually had something more valuable to replace in the short term. Unfortunately, I still don’t have a working iPad, I haven’t worn the watch, I forgot that I owned the watch, and every time I have to carry my computer to the coffee shop to work, I’m reminded of this lesson – I have to be flexible. Even though I earmarked the money for a beautiful splurge, I should have diverted the use in response to my changing situation.
Are there times where you had to be flexible with your finances? Be sure to share with me!
Aisha Taylor is a #1 Amazon Best Selling Author of the book “5+5 FNPhenomenal Ways to Save $100 This Week Without Killing Your Lifestyle”, and the Founder of FNPhenomenal (Frugal –n- Phenomenal). FNPhenomenal helps women to break the vicious cycle of making money, but not keeping it. FNPhenomenal provides education about money management, empowers women to take control of their lives, develop a healthier relationship with money, and pursue being phenomenal.
Visit Aisha online at www.FNPhenomenal.com
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If you’re waiting for a sign that it’s time to make a change, consider this it. Money Therapy may be just what you need to break through your financial blocks and release your money guilt and shame.
