We’re addicted to the big play.
The allure of the quick win seduces us.
The 70 yard Peyton Manning to Reggie Wayne touchdown pass sends a surge of adrenaline pulsating through our blood.
Vicariously we watch the average working Joe collect new found lottery millions, thinking – just maybe – one day it could be us.
The nation hangs on every episode waiting for the next rags to riches American Idol winner.
Yes, we’re junkies for the quick score, the big win, the rags to riches fantasies.
And perhaps that’s why frugality and all this personal finances stuff seems so downright boring.
Creating Wealth Isn’t Sexy
Our best money management moves never produce the quick payoff. We may not even see the fruits of our money saving labor for weeks or months.
Home runs, long touchdown passes, and overnight fame are sexy. Frugality, not so much.
But in money matters we become successful playing small ball. Instead of the touchdown bomb, it’s about stringing together a series of first downs until you score. It’s about hitting several singles in row instead of striving for the glamorous home run.
Small Steps Eventually Lead to Big Wins
Cut coupons, shop the sales, and buy in bulk and you may save $40 a week on your grocery bill. I admit, it doesn’t create much excitement.
But consider that $40 savings will snowball into $2080 worth of savings by the end of just one year.
Eliminate your land line and you may save $70 a month. May not seem like much until you realize that’s a $840 yearly savings.
Cut the premium cable package and you’re saving $700 a year or more.
Take your lunch to work twice a week and easily rack up $600 annually.
Unplugging unused electronics and turning off the air conditioner when away from the house pads your pocketbook with $350 extra a year.
Switch from a bank to a credit union and save $300 a year or more in fees.
The Simple Truth, Slow and Steady Wins the Race
The small steps are never glamorous. Clipping coupons, cutting expenses, and making small changes seem mundane. But implemented consistently, they build lasting wealth.
And that’s something you can get excited about.
Photo Credit: chanelimanphotos
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