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because I already own a tablet that gets the job done... if I would be buying the iPad it would be only for the cool factor of owning something different but functionality wise it overlaps what I already have.
I guess I don't consider that in the "emotional" category.
I did it today. Ive had a shrub in my cart at one of my favorite online nurseries for a few days.
Hubby has been in the hospital and I’ve been weary, preoccupied and worried. He doing fine and coming home tomorrow, so this morning I pulled the trigger on the plant to cheer myself up.
Pretty much everything is a business decision in my head. Do I need it? Will it improve my quality of life enough to justify the cost? Is it worth the space it will take up and the energy organizing it? Most often the answer is no. I tend towards minimalism.
Location: East of Seattle since 1992, 615' Elevation, Zone 8b - originally from SF Bay Area
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One can still be frugal and buy things they don't need, it's a matter of priorities and careful selection. For example I have always wanted a classic Generation 3 Chevrolet Nova Nova (1968-74). In doing the research over several years I discovered that in decent condition, a running project with minimal rust would be well over $30,000 for a 1968-72 with a 350 V8. Though the only differences are larger bumpers and the grill, the 1973-74 are about half of that at $15,000. Go to a 6 cylinder engine and it's again half, $8,000. For any of them add about $2,000 for 3 speed stick, $5,000 for 4 speed. I managed to save up $8,000 to avoid debt and found a 1974 with original paint, no rust, I6 and 3 speed stick for $7,500 so I bought it. For me tinkering with an old car is my idea of fun, so I'd much rather do that than go to movies, live shows, clubs, or sports events.
Depends on what it is. If it works, smoother, faster, etc., I might consider it. I have hobbies and equipment that probably doesn't financially make sense. I enjoy them as toys to play with.
Generally, I don't make purchases without carefully thinking it through. Do I really need it?
But sometimes I do buy things just because they make me feel good. I just bought three water color paintings and it makes me happy to look at them. "Joy" can be a legitimate and justifiable purchase and it is not a character flaw to maneuver a bit of joy into one's life. (although I thought about the paintings for 4 days before I bought them. They were not an impulse buy)
Hobbies and entertainment should be in the budget. There is no reason to live a grim and deprived life if you can afford to purchase a few things that give you a bit of happiness. Mental health is important, too.
Last edited by oregonwoodsmoke; 03-09-2022 at 10:57 AM..
Pretty much everything is a business decision in my head. Do I need it? Will it improve my quality of life enough to justify the cost? Is it worth the space it will take up and the energy organizing it? Most often the answer is no. I tend towards minimalism.
I think this is the most prudent and logical train of thought. I am aiming towards minimalism as well. It's much more satisfying to me knowing that every possession I have has a purpose and I am using it to it's fullest extent instead of hoarding a bunch of things I hardly use like a lot of people are doing.
Location: Was Midvalley Oregon; Now Eastside Seattle area
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It's all emotional. Even more emotional as I age.
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