I’m Robert from The College Investor and I’m swapping blogs with Denise today for the Yakezie Blog Swap! You can head over to my site to read Denise’s article about what motivates her to be financially responsible.
When thinking about things that motivate me to be financially responsible, I cannot think of just one issue. There are so many little factors in life that drive someone to do something? Maybe it was a life changing experience? Maybe it was a friend's advice? Well, I couldn't pinpoint one, so here are the 10 biggest things that motivate me to be financially responsible!
- I want to be rich. I'm not ashamed of this. I want to have enough money to live comfortably without having to work (although I would still probably work because I would get bored).
- I don't like handouts. I don't like wealth transfer. I don't want to receive it, and I sure don't want to give it. I am proud to be able to support myself and my family, and I want to continue to be able to.
- Updating Quicken is one of my favorite things to do...well, maybe top 10. I check my account balances almost daily. I like to see it grow.
- Watching Suze Orman's "Can I Afford It?" segments. I really bothers me that people call in and ask if they can afford a $100 gadget. One, if you have to call and ask, then the answer is no. Two, you really don't know if you can afford $100. Three, I will never put myself in that situation.
- I Like Deals. I love finding good deals on stuff, even groceries. I will spend for quality, but I will also shop around everywhere to find the best price for the quality I want.
- I Like Earning Money. Since I'm not rich yet, I'm content to earn my money. I am okay working hard for my money. And since I worked hard for my money, I have a hard time parting with it. Have you ever thought about how long you had to work to pay for something? Make $50,000 a year and want a new $25,000 car? That's 6 months of work, not including your regular expenses.
- Money Does Allow A Sense of Freedom. Whether you like it or not, stuff costs money. I do want to take vacations and do fun things, but it costs money. Some things cost more than others, but they all cost something. More money, more trips, etc.
- Bad Stuff Does Happen. Bad things do happen to people, and they usually cost money. While you can't prevent them, you can be somewhat financially prepared. This is why I maintain an emergency fund and have ample insurance.
- Sometimes You Need a Change. My favorite professor in school emphasized an important lesson: "Everyone needs to have a pile of 'Go to Hell' money for the day you need to say this to your employer". I love that quote, and find it to be true (maybe not actually saying "Go to Hell", but the bigger point). Sometimes you need a change, maybe for your emotional health or career growth. If you are prepared, you can move on without worrying about not having a paycheck.
- My Wife and Dog. And maybe someday kids. Basically, I want to provide for them so that they can enjoy the list above as well. I would never want them to have to sacrifice because I was greedy or wanted something at the family's expense. Plus, would you really want to see my poor puppy on the streets?
- The College Investor
What items from Robert's list most resemble your own motivation to be financially responsible?
5 comments:
You check your balances daily!? I feel like monthly is often enough or almost too much. You are certainly motivated!
This is a good list. Personally, I want to be rich. Or at least comfortable. I need to be better motivated at watching my finances.
Lovely post Robert! I can't explain it but it was very different in style from your blog posts!
Thanks guys! Kevin threw out a challenging topic but it was fun to write something a little different than the norm!
You had me at I want to be rich! lol If most people were honest with themselves they would say the same.
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