If you look up the definition of "thrifty" in a dictionary, it'll say something along the lines of "wisely economical" or "diligent in using resources." Yet the dictionary definition of "cheap" is typically "stingy" or "miserly." I, for one, take offense at the distinction. When I was a kid in scouting, being thrifty was a primary virtue. It seems as though thrifty kids are considered levelheaded, but when they grow up, they're considered cheap and stingy.
While I prefer to think of myself as thrifty, others perceive me as cheap. I tend to think of those folks as foolish and extravagant. I, for one, don't believe that I need the latest electronics the moment they hit the market. You won't find me paying a premium price on eBay for an X-Box 360 when I know that I'll be able to get one at a fraction of the cost in a few months' time.
Speaking of eBay, it can be a great place to find bargains. When it comes to auto parts, for example, I always check eBay first. Why spend the money at a car dealership or auto parts store when you can find it for less on eBay?
The cell phones I've purchased are functional and connect me to the person I want to talk to. Okay, to be honest, I've never actually purchased a cell phone. I wait for a company to offer me a free phone as a bonus for signing up to their service. A friend of mine paid $300 for a phone exactly like the one I'm using now that I got for free. Not to rub it in, but he's bought two other phones since then, while my freebie is still working like a charm.
When everyone began to switch from film to digital cameras, I thought long and hard. When I looked at the numbers, it quickly became apparent that digital cameras more than paid for themselves by saving on the cost of film, film developing and printing. However, I didn't run out and by a $1,000 digital camera right away. Knowing that the price of new technology comes down in a matter of months, I patiently waited until I could find a digital camera at a price with which I was comfortable.
Whether I'm in the market for camcorders, clothing, jewelry, electronics, or gifts, I watch my pennies. Over time, those pennies grow into dollars. As an adult, I prefer to continue to think of myself in virtuous terms - as someone who's thrifty, not cheap. |
