We (meaning those of us in Westernized, first-world market economies) seem to be awfully confused as to what constitutes a need and what constitutes a want. We constantly talk about things we need when what we mean is that not only do we want whatever it is, we want to have the experience of not denying ourselves whatever it is.
So, in my unending service to mankind, and with tongue firmly planted in cheek, I have assembled an easy to follow set of questions to ask yourself in order to determine whether the product/service/experience you are considering is a need or a want.
Ask yourself the following about whatever it is you are considering:
- Without this thing, will I, within a relatively short time-frame, die of hunger, exhaustion, thirst or exposure to the elements?
If the answer is no, then what you are considering is a want, not a need. Easy enough, isn’t it?
I have absolutely no problem at all between identifying the difference between need and want. I am fortunate in that all of my needs are pretty much taken care of. That allows me plenty of time to chase wants!