Wants and Needs

When setting your financial priorities, always ask the question -- "Is this a want or a need?" Getting something you "want" is NOT a bad thing IF you have the CASH to spare.
NEVER GO INTO DEBT FOR WANTS!! Only go into debt for needs when necessary. Try to anticipate what your future needs will be.
When your budget is tight (and whose isn't?) your priority should be on those things that you NEED. Please don't rationalize what your needs are. Maybe you NEED a computer, but you might be able to get by with a less-than-the-greatest model. Maybe you NEED a washing machine, but you might be better off buying one without all the latest "bells and whistles". Maybe you need a new pair of shoes, but shouldn't look at the pair that's $100!! If you have the means, by all means go ahead if you wish, but beware, that extra $600 for the nicer washing machine could go a long way to buying that new computer AND the new shoes.
Word to the wise: JUST THINK BEFORE YOU SPEND!