Desire Doesn't Equal Simplicity

How often do we purchase items that we desire because we think we need them? I'm sure you might think this is somewhat foolish, but think it through.

In examining this concept, the main question to ask is whether the product or service is something we want, or is it something we need. A want is something that may be nice to have but is it really necessary. On the other hand, a need is something we can't do without. For example, it may be nice to have a brand new car with all the latest bells and whistles, new style, and all nice and shiny, but do we really need it? Think about it.

Is the new car really a need or is it just a want? If you purchase a brand new car, as soon as you drive it off the lot, you are immediately losing several thousands of dollars. However, if you purchased a used vehicle just a few years old, you would save several thousands of dollars and still have a reliable car. There are plenty of used cars available only a couple of years old, with low mileage or kilometers, and with remaining warranty. Why? Because, these cars are available from people who bought into the concept of desire rather than need.

In our case, for example, we needed a reliable four-wheel drive vehicle because we live in a snow bound winter region in the country. Many times, the roads are treacherous at the best of times, and even more so with major storms. Instead of purchasing a new four-wheel drive, we found a used vehicle, four years old, with only 56,000 kilometers on it. The original owner traded it in for a brand new model even though this vehicle was like new.

The next time you consider buying anything, sit back for a few days, or weeks, and ask yourself whether your anticipated purchase is a genuine need, or is it simply a want. If it is a need, consider whether there are options for buying used, or, if it can't be purchased used, one that has fewer bells and whistles but can still do the job.