When you are content to be simply yourself and don’t compare or compete, everybody will respect you. Lao Tzu
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I can remember what I was like in my twenties, couldn’t discern between my wants and needs.  I wanted everything that others of my age had.  To be honest this attitude kept me frustrated.  The harder I tried the poorer I was financially.  I am reminded of a saying that I heard quite often when I was younger, “keeping up with the Jones”.  I have also heard this about people trying to keep up, “champagne tastes on a beer budget”.

Now I understand when people are frustrated, maybe stuck in a going nowhere job, maybe seeking employment, or trying to do better for your children than you had it when you were a child.  

Years of living have brought a living learning experience.  I can now differentiate between wants and needs.

The best thing that has helped me with budgeting is able to do online banking. With just a couple of clicks I can pay bills, check my balance, and yes, buy things that I cannot find locally.

I live with a fixed income, probably below the poverty line, yet I can say I have a pretty good life.  Roof above my head, food for the table, and more than one change of clothes.  Extras like, cable tv, phone(land line), internet, and probably much more.

So, I can honestly say I find myself with total contentment!