Do you have difficulty spending, even when you save?

[JoeP]

Our microwave started dying last weekend, and I'm not sure it can be fixed. We have an emergency fund for the unexpected, but I am very hesitant spending money on repairing or replacing it, even though we have the money earmarked.

Also, I am finding it difficult to spend money on myself. For example, if someone were to give me $1000 in cash right now, I would have a very hard time finding something to spend it on. I have pretty much everything I need, and don't desire anything really. The only "maybe" would be a newer computer, since my 11 year old PC with its 1.7 GHz single core processor and slow memory and ancient disks sometimes drives me crazy, but I'd hesitate even on that.

I have no problem spending on normal expenses -- food, utilities, insurance, etc. -- but non-essentials is a different beast for me. I even struggle "treating" myself to a bagel and coffee, rationalizing that it is unnecessary because I can make my own breakfast at home and not spend.

Anyone else focused on saving to the point where spending is difficult?

[disneysteve]

Absolutely. I think a lot of us here have those same issues.

I think you address two seperate points, though.

The microwave could be seen as a need. Yes, you can cook without it, but if you are anything like my family, it is a pretty essential appliance. Plus, unless you want some fancy high end one, they are pretty inexpensive. I wouldn't even consider having it repaired. The cost of a service call would probably be as much as the cost of a new one. Just go get it.

As for your hypothetical $1,000 gift, that's different. I've been through that numerous times. My mom likes to give us money from time to time. More often than not, it goes into savings or gets sent as an extra payment on our mortgage. Not exactly what my mom had in mind, but just because we get money unexpectedly is not an excuse to blow it frivolously in my opinion.

In your case, though, I'd replace that computer as fast as I could get my butt to Best Buy.

[bjl584]

In your case, though, I'd replace that computer as fast as I could get my butt to Best Buy.

Actually,
Go check it out on Best Buy then buy it on Amazon. As long as we are talking about minimal spending.

I have similar issues by the way. I find it hard to spend on things sometimes.

[disneysteve]

Actually,
Go check it out on Best Buy then buy it on Amazon. As long as we are talking about minimal spending.

Also, check Best Buy's website. They sometimes have internet-only specials but let you pick up the item in the store for the online price. I did that when we bought my mom's laptop. The price was better than anything on Amazon plus we got it right away.

[twest]

I feel pretty much the same. It seemed like it took us a while to get our emergency fund and I never want to touch it. I am very crazy about it. Since funding my emergency fund now I fund other categories like house maint, car maint, entertainment, vacation, etc....This has really helped me not feel bad when I truly need something like a microwave i will try to pull from house maint category instead. I do also have my little "seasons" where I do want to spend money and then I won't feel as bad buying that purse if i have the money in my entertainment or clothing category. I try not to touch my emergency fund but if I truly need it I will use it (that is what it is there for) but just be determined to replace it ASAP. I definitely understand where you are coming from on not spending but in life we have to enjoy some things besides just saving LOL. I agree with DisneySteve I would replace that computer as soon as you can.

[SavingSweetOneL]

Hi Joe,

First, a thrift store moght have a good working microwave, so you don't have to replace it new. They often show up at church sales.

2nd.. money is about value. And, whether one is a spender or saver, the issue is Self worth.

I'm trying to learn how to save. It is a bit of a slow process. Your challenge is to come to a place to treat yourself well, when it would be good and productive for you to do so.

First, start with small things. Like the pair of shoes, that are a little more, but in the color you like. Allocate a larger portion of your financial resources to your "Blow" envelope. And, you have to spend iot that week, on things that are not a line item on your financial spreadsheet.

Just my suggestions.

SweetOneL

[JoeP]

I'm glad I'm not alone!

Actually, we've been planning on renovating our front room into a computer/music room. It was the kids' play room and it sitting pretty much unused now, so we want to move my "office" from the little upstairs nook to an actual room where I can spread out papers and folders without balancing them on the clock radio or my knees. This project, which we have been saving for and is almost fully funded, will include new carpeting, paint for the walls and trim, window treatments, a nice desk, and a new computer. Yeah, that PC is well past its prime!

The microwave is one that fits over the range, and has a cracked handle, parts are peeling off, the viewing glass is all fogged up, it is loud...you all just talked me into replacing it.

I have to disclose: we just won a Smart car, and this is a factor in this discussion. We plan on liquidating it within a few months, but even at the prospect of this cash influx, it is hard for me to consider spending that money.

[SavingSweetOneL]

Joe,

Cool on the car win. And, the "new" office room, sounds like a huge treat for yourself.

I guess it comes down to what enables one to feel safe and relaxed and secure.

A microwave oven is not soemthing to fret about, but to trust, that there are plenty of them, and you can find a new(er) one that will work right for the right price.

For some of those that are like extreme cheapskates, they feel comfortable going through trash or used vac bags (hi Jeff. ), but for me that does not feel comfortable or safe, so it is not something I would do, unless in desperate circumstances. It relaxes me more, to make sure those circumstances do not happen to me. So, I enjoy the luxery of not having to do those things.

So, Joe, to loosen up a bit, ask yourself, "If I puchase this, will I feel more safe, and relaxed, not having the tension of (having to jiggle the door, look at the stain, etc.)", before each puchase.

And, make the decsion that is clear, about which reduces your tension. And, everybody's tension level is different.

And, just think, your relationship will be better with your relatives, because you are less tense and more relaxed. And, that is all to the best and greater good, because then energy can be put into more joyful things.

SweetOneL

[siggy_freud]

I harp on this a lot, but you can't ignore the quality/fun of life purchases. I too have a hard time spending money on myself, especially for fun or "want" items. But for me, that's what I live for, the good times. And I honestly believe that improving joy contributes to a longer life, which means more years to earn money. An extra $1,000 to the mortgage is a good way to spend the money, and if it means it's paid off sooner and you can use that extra money to enjoy life, great. For some, that $1,000 is better spent on something they wouldn't otherwise buy themselves, that brings relaxation, pleasure, or just sheer enjoyment.

[bjl584]

I have to disclose: we just won a Smart car, and this is a factor in this discussion. We plan on liquidating it within a few months, but even at the prospect of this cash influx, it is hard for me to consider spending that money.

How did you win a Smart Car?

I drove one of those once. I would never put that thing on a highway. It was completely underpowered, and I felt so unsafe. Plus, it's rear wheel drive, so forget about driving in bad weather on the winding and hilly roads here in the northeast. The price seemed high too for what you get. You can get a Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla for around the same price and you will get a lot more room and just as good fuel economy.

I agree with you on seling it and taking the cash. If possible, don't even take delivery. Take the cash equivilent as a prize instead of the car if it's an option.

[JoeP]

How did you win a Smart Car?

I drove one of those once. I would never put that thing on a highway. It was completely underpowered, and I felt so unsafe. Plus, it's rear wheel drive, so forget about driving in bad weather on the winding and hilly roads here in the northeast. The price seemed high too for what you get. You can get a Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla for around the same price and you will get a lot more room and just as good fuel economy.

I agree with you on seling it and taking the cash. If possible, don't even take delivery. Take the cash equivilent as a prize instead of the car if it's an option.

It was a drawing. I can count on one hand the number of things we've won up to that point. Not only do we not want this car for the reasons you mention, but we just do not want another car period. We don't want the extra costs (gas, insurance, inspection, registration, maintenance) associated with an unnecessary item. We're working with our accountant/tax guy to figure out the best way to get the most out of this good fortune.

[GREENBACK]

Do you have difficulty spending, even when you save?

I don't. I look at the purchases you suggested as personal "infrastucture" expenditures. I personally save plenty every week, month, and year and when it's time to replace or upgrade items that are needed or very much wanted I have no problem with spending on those items at that time.

I overcome the psychological part of it by reviewing how much I've saved over time and realizing that a little spending to improve my life or situation is very positive and can actually lead to better financial satisfaction. in other words, I can spend money and still maintain my finances.

[LivingAlmostLarge]

For stuff like clothes I can say I have trouble buying more expensive better quality. I can't fathom $500 of shoes when $100 looks pretty good. Or buying $1500 jacket when I think $300 is a lot. But I can definitely say it's a work in progress. Maybe maturity on our part.

Example, we just bought jumper cables for our two cars. My DH was like $40 or something each, but then I pointed out it's good safety practice. Things that seem expensive and unnecessary then turn into something well worth it.

My BIL lives without a microwave and we've visited him 2x. First time we offered to buy him one while visiting, he said no. It was horrible staying with him without a microwave when we are so used to having the convience. Second time another offer. Again he refused. Ugh.

[UnknownXV]

I am the same way. Even though my emergency fund exists for a reason, I will do anything and everything I can before actually tapping it. I guess it's the mindset that made us save in the first place that also prevent us from using it.

[Ramose]

I often get this train of thought when making large purchases but not for small ones. The problem is usually when I think about how long it took me to save the money that I'm spending (maybe that's why credit cards are so easy for people to spend).

P.S. Get a new computer!