In this tough economy, everyone is always talking about pinching pennies. But there are times when it’s better, and worthwhile, to spend a little more. Here’s my list of the ten things it’s definitely worth spending on.
Granted, most airlines are charging us for silly things like luggage and tasteless meals. But aside from the airfare, most travel is less expensive than ever. And there are so many places to go, so many things you want to see! Why wait? Spend your extra money on traveling abroad, while you’re still young and healthy enough to enjoy it. And be sure to send me a postcard!
I’m not just saying this because I’m a label snob. Paying a little extra for a brand name article of clothing makes sense because it will last longer. I’ve experimented with this. I bought a blue v-neck 10 Hottest Cardigans ... @Kati from Old Navy for $22, and another from Guess for $79. And do you know what? Not only did I enjoy the Guess sweater a lot more (it was softer and more stylish), it lasted a lot longer.
Organic foods are healthier because they don’t contain hormones, pesticides or other poisons, and they will keep you looking gorgeous! Also, food grown locally will be more flavorful (since it’s fresher) and when you buy it, you’ll be supporting your local economy. Buy a bushel of locally-grown apples in the fall, and fresh strawberries in the summer. Also, organic food helps you do atleast some bit for the environment! Buy organic cereals, salad dressings, milk, and just about everything else all year round!
If you’re going to cut corners and pinch pennies, do you really want to do it when you’re gift-giving? Of course not! You don’t have to break the bank, but if you’ve seen something that’s a perfect gift for your sweetheart for this Valentine'sor little one or great-aunt Sue, wait for a sale and buy it!
I found it hard to justify spending the money each month for my gym membership until my sweetheart reminded me that working out is beneficial in so many ways. It reduces stress, improves my endurance, gives me energy and improves my self-confidence… and makes my butt look great in my new skinny jeans! Spend the money on the gym… it’s worth it!
One of my dearest friends received a Kindle for Christmas. If you haven’t seen one of these, it’s an electronic book reader. It’s cool, sleek, high-tech… but I’m horrified. I’m a hands-on book gal, in it for the literature and the tactile experience of curling up on a couch with a book. It doesn’t matter though. Both my friend and I read like mad, always into three or four books at once. Reading regularly will increase your awareness of the world, and will also stave off memory loss associated with aging.
If you’ve ever run in or worked out in a pair of cheap shoes, I feel your pain. It’s awful. The blisters! The sores! The pinching! That’s why I recommend spending the money on a pair of shoes that fist correctly and will last. Athletic shoes, flats, 10 Hottest Pairs of Designer Boots ... @Mercy, all shoes… you really do get what you pay for.
Bad make-up doesn’t just look awful, it may actually harm your skin. It’s better to not wear any make-up if you can’t invest in the good stuff. There are certain times, like Halloween, when it’s okay to buy Wet-N-Wild eye-shadow. You’re never going to wear that hideous shade of blue again. But for the rest of the year, buy Best of Mac: the Must-Have Products You Absolutely Need! @Jai or whatever other brand of cosmetics you prefer. Make sure it’s hypo-allergenic, and while you’re at it, make sure you know how to apply it.
Cheap candles contain lead in their wicks, which is released into the air when the candle is lit. They also tend to burn more quickly, and leave sticky black soot on nearby surfaces. Also, more expensive candles smell better, and stronger. Spend the extra few dollars on better candles, and make sure they have lead-free wicks.
I’m sure there are other things that it’s worth it to spend the extra money on, like first-class seats on an airline. What tops your list, and why? Please let me know… thanks!