Why You Should Never Feel Self-Conscious About Being Frugal

It’s like there’s something uncool about saving money.

But frugality doesn’t mean the same thing to everyone, and you should never feel self-conscious about it.

This post originally appeared onReadyForZero.

I’ll admit upfrontI’m usually “the frugal” one in any given group.

In that way, it’s been easy to maintain my frugal tendencies.

During those times I also felt the need to excuse my desire to save and defend my frugality.

Which brings to question…when did frugality become such a bad thing?

Frugality has become equated with cheapness, with stinginess, with dullness.

Not exactly painting a positive picture for anyone looking to save a few pennies.

There’s something considered inherently “uncool” about saving money.

("…Economy in the use of resources"?

How is that NOT cool!?).

The truth of the matter is,frugality doesn’t mean the same thing to everyone.

The nature of the practice is built on so many external factors that the meaningvaries vastly individual to individual.

This is why it can often be lost in translation from one person to another or misinterpreted among friends.

So then, how can we reconcile the misunderstanding?

Here are a few different examples of frugality that you might encounter on a daily basis.

Out of Necessity:For some, it’s out of sheer necessity.

Billswon’t be paid, basic needs won’t be met.

This is a situation that deserves respect and empathy as well as a supportive environment.

A good example is the traveler at heart.

Flights, accommodation, travel expenses are all things that require a decent upfront cost.

Frugal behavior in this case might be indicative of financial compromise.

Choosing to forgo one thing to make it spend in another area.

Personal Trait:People are different, plain and simple.

Each person has had a different and unique introduction to how they should handle financial matters.

Maybe they learned from a thrifty mom or from a significant other.

Some people are just naturally less interested in spending and that’s totally okay!

Momentum Savers:This is actually something I’ve experienced first handfrugality is an expanding habit.

If you give a mouse a cookie and they save it… they’ll want more cookies.

That’s how I see it, at least.

Looking Towards the Future:Future goals are a huge incentive forcreating and sticking to a savings plan.

You might not fit in any, or you may fit in several.

Again, understanding thatpersonal finance is highly individualizedis a critical step.

Feeling like you have to defend your actions naturally brings up a bit of confusion and even self-doubt.

Remember,there’s value in your goals.

you’re free to utilize a highly focusedpurposeto remain connected and motivated in continuing with your goal.

Give merit to your decisions and don’t feel as if they need to be justified at every turn!

If you want to, then explain.

If not, it’s perfectly fine to keep it private.

Frugality is a normal part of a healthy financial life.

Talk about it, share, but don’t feel that you oughta default to the defensive.

I’ve fully embraced being that girl that suggests potlucks at every turn.

Owning it with confidence has made all the difference.

Why You Should Never Feel Self-Conscious About Being Frugal| ReadyForZero

Claire works in content and community for ReadyForZero.

Image adapted from1Aljulewandmattasbestos(Shutterstock).

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