Hummer

Every Purchase Is a Trade-Off

While I was digging out of debt, I cut back on my comic book habit.

I'd been spending a mind-boggling $250 every month on comics — most of which I bought in the form of hard-bound compilations — but for a few of years, I slashed that to less than $50 a month. I also cut my book spending from $100 per month to $50 per month.In other words, I made trade-offs. I decided repaying my debt was more important, so I put off buying books and comics until later.Here's the thing: Every purchase is a trade-off. Maybe it's more obvious with discretionary expenses, such as books and gym memberships and cable television. But you're making trade-offs even when you buy the things you need . When you buy food for your family, you're giving up other things you might really want, like new furniture or a car repair. And if you choose to go into debt, you're trading your future income in order to have the things you want today.When you spend money on one thing, you're choosing not to spend it on another. Th...

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