Boring can be beautiful. Rather than going through life with an attitude of reckless abandon, a slow and steady approach yields consistent and measurable results over time. It may not always be the most exciting choice; however, it’s a small price to pay in order to achieve a high level of success.
Years ago, I read an article in Car and Driver about the Toyota Camry. The author praised the Camry for delivering in the areas of reliability, comfort and value. He also compared the driving experience to that of a washing machine. Everything worked as it should but it was incredibly boring and understated to drive. Rather than dissuading me from buying a Camry in the future, this actually made me want to buy one that much more. It works when you need it too. Isn’t that what a machine on wheels is supposed to do?
If you live long enough, you’ll most likely have an influx of money come your way at one point or another. Whether it was through your hard work, an inheritance or sheer dumb luck, hundreds if not thousands of dollars may eventually end up in your bank account. What you do when this happens says a lot about whether you embrace the boring or live for the moment with little thought for the future.
It’s much more exciting to spend money on travel and fun toys we wish to buy. It’s way less exciting to save or invest your newfound riches. One choice provides instant gratification, the other provides future gratification knowing you have the ability to pay for whatever it is you need.
Boring can also come in handy as it relates to parenting. Having a daily routine and structure provides kids with a sense of security. They know what to expect each day, removing any guesswork and undue anxiety that may result from a non linear daily approach. I’m not saying you have to be militaristic, but setting and keeping a schedule will keep you sane and help avoid the daily pitfalls of life as a parent.
Am I saying we should remove all fun from the equation? This depends on your definition of “fun.” Going to Vegas and betting your life savings at the roulette table may give you a rush of adrenaline in the moment but that feeling would quickly fade if you end up losing the bet. This is an extreme example but you get the point. Life is a series of small bets that add up over time. Have fun in the moment but always have an eye toward the future.
A mistake many people make is in thinking their financial situation will remain the same. This may be true for some but the vast majority of us experience financial highs and lows throughout our lifetime. Maintaining a consistent approach regardless of which situation you’re currently in will yield the best results.
A good example would be purchasing a reliable but somewhat boring car even though you could afford something more luxurious. Anything you buy should be done with an eye toward the future. This is true for saving money as well. If you have three kids, chances are one or all three will need your financial support at some point in their lives. As your trembling hand is helping to cut the umbilical cord, the beginning stages of how best to support your growing family should be entering your mind.
Boring doesn’t always have to mean sacrificing everything you want to do. Take the vacations, buy the toys, do all the things you want to do. The key is, stick to a budget, spend less than you earn and save for the future on a consistent basis.
Your future self and those of your kids will appreciate your decision to be boring.
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