I have previously posted my thoughts on quality vs. quantity. This is a continuation of that train of thought but focused more towards the other side of the spectrum.
While I disdain luxury I do recognize that some higher level items are built and designed better than common things. Some of these things I don’t disparage.
Computers for example. Pretty central to my life. How sad is that? It’s pretty much essential for my work and a good portion of life now revolves around leveraging the resources that the internet provides to make my life better. While it’s easy and tempting to get the cheapest machine possible, I have to keep some things in mind. I want to get the longest service life possible out of this machine. Getting a clearance priced machine on its way out is cheating myself out of that service life. Also back in the day when I used to game I needed a pretty up to date machine to keep up with the graphics. I don’t splurge on unnecessary things such as surround sound or 27 inch monitors but I do get good graphics and processing speed. These are key to making sure my computer will be with me a long time.
Cars are another thing I feel strongly about. I took six months to research my last purchase. Very possible that in the beginning of the year I will begin a search for a new car. But let’s wait and see on that. I road-tested various models from PT Cruisers to Mercedes before settling on the Dodge Charger. Now, The Mercedes C class sports sedan is a very fine automobile. Technically there is nothing wrong with it. The couple of times that I have driven one I have found them to be excellent. But the thing is, how much am I paying for quality and how much am I paying for a name? In the end I felt I could get the quality that I was looking for in a cheaper direction.
Even food has entered the equation. My fit foods has recently opened up in my neighborhood. This is high-end nutrition with a focus on getting healthy and keeping healthy. At first I balked at the price; anywhere from $5 to $8 per meal. But then consider that this easily falls in line with the price of junk food meals out there. I am getting food that is good for me, that is prepared and ready to heat and eat, that takes calories into account, and most importantly it tastes good. I don’t have to cook all the time and I don’t have to resort to fast food if I find myself in a time crunch situation.
Things like Rolex watches, name brand suits or shoes, or jewelry I don’t see the point in those. Things like high quality smartphones, tablets, cars, and foods I do find to be worth my while. I don’t see these as useless luxuries but things that add value to my life.
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