For as long as I can remember, if there was something I wanted that wasn't a necessity (i.e. clothes, food, school supplies), I had to buy it with my own money. I used to save all of my money in a piggy bank and my grandmother would take me out shopping to buy the miscellaneous items I wanted. But was I happy as a child? I was probably one of the happiest kids in the world. Here are a few reasons why I am grateful for being raised on a budget:
I spent quality time with my mother
Due to the frugal budget my family was on, my mother was able to stay at home with my sisters and I through our schooling until we were old enough to care for ourselves. I wouldn't trade the memories I have with my mother for the world, and neither would she. Some of the best memories were helping my mom cut coupons or going to garage sales on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
I learned what was essential in life
Did I need that cool new toy on television? Probably not. I learned that we didn't need to eat out all the time. I probably liked it better when we stayed home and ate spaghetti. I never really wanted to wear Abercrombie and Fitch, or even Juicy Couture. The price of those articles of clothing probably equaled at least 7 shirts from Old Navy on the clearance rack. I learned that I needed food, water, and shelter. I had all those things so I am eternally grateful.
It forced me to explore my creativity
I learned that every outfit needs to be able to be worn more than once. If it won't be worn more than once, there is no use in buying it. I learned to buy clothing that had a missing button or a torn seam because those items are easily fixable. I also learned to go to the thrift store. The thrift store was an adventure for me. It was my blank canvas.
I learned to never just "go shopping"
Shopping requires a lot of planning. I would have to go see which stores were having sales, which sales were the best, and which stores included coupons. I also learned to plan where I was going and when. I learned never, ever, buy something that is 10% off unless your life depends on it. You're basically paying the full price.
Planning early on helps for the future
Because my parents implemented these ideals into my brain at a young age, I am able to live comfortably. I am able to get things that I want, but don't necessarily need, such as a college education. My parents got me used to saving up for things I wanted. And I am forever grateful because it shaped me into the person I am today.
