By Joseph Thompson


The definition of 'the good life' varies from person to person and sometimes to culture, but few consider poverty a good thing. Knowing how to live a prosperous life is better than hoping to win the lottery or somehow beat the system. There are proven ways to achieve financial and emotional stability.

Some want a lot, while others can be satisfied with food, shelter, and clothing. Those who need status symbols might not aim for the lifestyle of the rich and famous. However, they want a car new enough to be shiny, clothes that reflect this year's fashion, and a house they can show off to friends. Others like driving a car that's paid for, wearing clothes until they wear out, and having a modest home with a mortgage that's not a burden.

A person's commitment to materialism may speak to personal values. Many give a lot to help others, although most keep enough to live comfortably. In some Native American cultures, a person is responsible not only for their own welfare and that of their family, but also for their less fortunate relatives. Christians are told to give one coat away if they have two, and that it is more blessed to give than to receive.

Others believe that charity begins at home and spending money on themselves and their families is fine. After all, the money is theirs. This viewpoint is less altruistic, but it does make the world go round. Conspicuous consumption is what over 60% of the American economy is based on. What would all the shopping malls, restaurants, car dealerships, and resorts do if everyone began to hoard their pennies?

No matter where you live, or how, being able to manage what money you have is key. It's a fact that setting up a budget works. Most people hate the idea of such discipline, but studies show that adhering to a spending plan that puts fixed expenses first and then apportions the residue to such things as food, gas, clothing, and recreation is good practice. People often don't really know where their money goes, and many are addicted to impulse buying - a fatal flaw.

It is amazing how far the income goes when a budget is strictly followed. Those who feel they simply don't have enough money find that even saving a little is possible. Husbands and wives who battle over money - the single greatest cause of marital discord - can live in harmony again. You may feel the pinch, but you won't be able to deny the benefits of such programs.

Avoiding debt is also key. Buying on credit makes every purchase more expensive. Apart from the worry over how to pay monthly bills, and the care needed to make payments on time, spending money that you have to borrow at interest makes no financial sense at all. This is one reason why saving is such a great habit. If emergencies arise, there will be money in the bank to help you cope.

Other things enter in. Christians advocate tithing, saying that God blesses the 90% left in such a way that you are better off after giving than before. Hard work is still a great tool. People who have a good life have often labored hard when young in order to enjoy their golden years. Working to your strengths, investing as you go, understanding tax breaks, and resisting the human craving to have ever more stuff help make dreams come true.




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