It was simple arithmetic, mixed in with growing up during the Great Depression, that gave my parents their smarts about money management.
At an early and appropriate age, my Dad took me to the local savings bank so that I could open up an account. Saving money was critical.
When I got my first credit card, he explained the principles around receiving credit, preaching “Never spend beyond your means… interest is costly!”
As for my Mother… well, she taught her daughters to shop the sales. Nice things are wonderful to have especially at a discount!
To this day, the Dose continues to practice these principles. Money for a rainy day… you bet! Can’t afford it means I can’t have it. And the thrill of the deal is the ultimate high!!
And with all due respect to my parents, the Dose does have some extravagances… but all within reason, all within my means.
In the words of a MasterCard commercial:
The cost of no money in the bank… anxiety.
The cost of creditors mailing, calling, knocking… anguish.
The cost of overpaying… buyer’s remorse.
Doing the math… priceless.