The more you appreciate the success you achieve in life, the more time you want to be able to enjoy it. Similarly, the more money you have at your disposal, the more time you want to enjoy it.
Time expenditure also requires separating what you need to do and what you want to do.
So on top of all that, you do not want a time-waster. If you have them, then you need to spend as little time on it or with them as possible. But how do you tell if something, or someone, is worth your time?
1. They’re aware of your time
People who are worth your time are aware of your time. If someone in your life is clueless about time management and its importance, you will suffer their clumsiness. They’ll be late for meetings or catch-ups and more. As much as you excuse them, it is disrespectful to you both.
2. They’re not takers
People who are genuinely worth your time, give back. They don’t expect you to look after them all of the time and they give as much as they receive. Time-wasters tend to be great takers but when it is time for them to show up, they are nowhere to be found.
3. You don’t feel drained afterwards
Sometimes it’s hard to pin a time-waster. But an effective way to tell is to ask yourself how you feel after you’ve spent time with them. Are you drained or energised? People who are worth your time make you feel good about yourself. They should give you energy, not sap you of it.
4. They’re grateful
Ever heard the saying, "Those who don't want power are the ones who deserve it?" People who recognise that your time is a privilege and not a right are worth your time. If you’re helping someone who seems to expect help as a right rather than a privilege then you’ll end up very frustrated.
If you do the work or heavy lifting for another person who just expects it, that person is bad news for your time and energy.
Whether they are selfish or simply unaware, they are not worth your time.
Time-wasters are people or things that sap your energy, leave you unfocused and can even stop you from doing what you love, which is spending time doing what you’re passionate about.
How can you tell who or what is worth your money?
We are told that in order to be "good" with money, we have to spend less. While this can be true, consider the value of the items you're purchasing and how certain expenses affect your overall quality of life.
Sometimes going for the cheapest option or no option at all is not always the best financial decision in the long run. Here are five areas of your life where you can spend money guilt-free, regardless of your budget.
1. Staple items
Some purchases are timeless and can be handed down for generations. Spending money on quality items can prove to be a good return on investment. Good-quality shoes and undergarments, a classic pair of jeans or a crisp button-down shirt, classic furniture, a good mattress, and even a nice sofa or dining room table are worth the splurge.
High-quality cookware and knives often come with a lifetime warranty. When it comes to staples, spending more on something that will last many years is better.
2. Things that buy you time
If you want to spend time on a home DIY project, that is awesome. But if hiring someone or getting help can give you more time, consider it. Spending money on a housekeeper, a handyman, or an assistant is well worth the money because it helps you get back more time.
3. Experiences
Buying the latest gadget or fancy car can give you a sense of satisfaction, but that feeling can be short-lived. People who spend money on experiences are happier and less likely to exhibit buyer's remorse.
Experiences don't have to mean a big expensive trip out of the country. A quick weekend getaway, a stay at a hotel or a staycation is cost-effective and well worth the splurge. Other experiences like concerts and festivals can create wonderful memories that last a lifetime.
4. Your health
Spending extra money on your health can seem like a luxury in certain circumstances. The reality is that your health is an investment, and if you don't invest in your healthcare now, you'll pay for it later. Give yourself permission to spend money on healthy foods, a nice gym membership, or a personal trainer. It doesn't always have to be expensive, but make sure you actually use the services.
Spending money on good health insurance also pays off. People with health insurance are more likely to get preventive care, which can help them catch medical issues early. In addition to basic healthcare, consider dental and vision care, like regular cleanings, a quality electric toothbrush, comfortable eyeglasses, and sunglasses.
5. Self-care
Self-care goes beyond a day at the spa. While a massage or pedicure can help rid the stress from your week, anything that protects your well-being and happiness is worth the extra money.
One of the more expensive forms of self-care is seeing a therapist. Therapy provides many long-term benefits and teaches skills to help you work through your daily thoughts and interactions.
Self-care can also mean dedicating time to hobbies or interests. If you love to read, buying books or subscribing to an audiobook service are good investments in yourself. Again, these don't have to be expensive. Think about how you'd like to prioritize all the types of self-care based on what's most important to you, then budget accordingly.
When money is tight, it can be tempting to cut back on things that are most important and pay less for lower-quality items. Consider splurging on things that will improve your life and make you happier. You won't regret it!