Costly teen, are you?

Do you always hear your parents saying "spend wisely" or this scenario is familiar to you. You're at the mall pointing to your mom you like that expensive pair of shoes. She replied, 'I can't afford those shoes,' then picks another pair saying "this is more practical to buy, less expensive but durable." You will just think, 'There she goes again."



Money talk was taboo in many families, and many parents sheltered children from financial realities. I'm just thankful that I learned it early, the painful way. It started when my mom told me that, if I wanted something to buy I could save the excess from my school allowance because she will prioritize first what's necessary at home. Following her advice and more, I skip eating breaks just to promptly save the amount I need. During those times I am always in high spirits whenever I see my money increase in my wallet.

After two months of saving, I was able to raise the amount I need. In our family weekend bonding, I was able to buy the clothes that I want, gift for a friend's birthday, and treat my younger sister with frozen yogurt. Wow! I couldn't explain the feeling while spending the money I saved in two month's time. That feeling became clearer to me when we got home and found out that the shopping bag for the clothes that I bought was lost. The money that I saved for quite a long time was gone in just a snap!

Studying in a private school, I understand a lot of pressure to keep up and have the name brands to be young fashionista and dress in the latest styles. With my recent experience on the money that I saved, social pressure just isn't as important to me any more. What's more concrete now is I just have to find friends with similar values. And thank you mom for allowing me to commit my money mistakes now, than making me commit greater money mistakes in the future.

Article Source: http://tinyurl.com/costly-teen