Learning the Value of a Dollar

How Did You Learn the Value of a Dollar?

June 2, 2010

Judging by your smart comments and saving tips, Savvy readers are a seriously budget-conscious and financially shrewd bunch. But I’m guessing that wasn’t always the case; who doesn’t remember being lectured about money trees (they don’t exist, ICYDK), or blowing your first Summer job paycheck on frivolous things? At some point we all had to learn the value of a dollar, whether we listened to an older, wiser parent, or figured it out the hard way. So, how’d it happen for you?

6 Comments

pearsbeary 2 years 50 weeks

While I didn't have to completely handle my personal finances until I started working full-time, I learned to appreciate spending money when I worked part-time jobs. Also, I was lucky that my parents had taught me the value of a dollar even before that so I never encountered any financial stress.

Kellanawida 2 years 50 weeks

While growing up my parents didn't have much extra money and things were usually pretty tight. If I wanted something special, I had to earn pocket money and when I hit 16 I got an after school job because I wanted to earn more to pay for a car, etc. One of my fondest memories was saving up for a giant plush bunny that cost $9.00 and I had to save for 3 weeks @ $3.00 a week in chores to buy it. It felt like an eternity but it was such a proud day when I bought it myself!

GlowingMoon 2 years 50 weeks

I'm with Spectra. I gained a lot of lessons about money (and personal finances) when I put myself through college. Incidentally, back in the day, my alma mater was one of the highest-priced private universities (and still is), and it held a lot of prestige (and still does).I really, really wanted to attend that university, so I gained those stressful lessons. Also, when I graduated, I paid-off those loans early.But I have to say, those tough lessons served me well later in life. Also, I think I appreciate my college degree a lot because of what I went through.

GlowingMoon 2 years 50 weeks

I'm with Spectra. I gained a lot of lessons about money (and personal finances) when I put myself through college. Incidentally, back in the day, my alma mater was one of the highest-priced private universities (and still is), and it held a lot of prestige (and still does). I really, really wanted to attend that university, so I gained those stressful lessons. Also, when I graduated, I paid-off those loans early. But I have to say, those tough lessons served me well later in life. Also, I think I appreciate my college degree a lot because of what I went through.

juicebox07 2 years 50 weeks

I learned when I got a job and started paying my own bills.

Spectra 2 years 50 weeks

I had always kind of taken money for granted until I got into college and had to work and get student loans to pay my tuition and living expenses. When I was a senior, I lived in a house that I really couldn't afford. I had two jobs and still couldn't make ends meet. I had maxed out my credit card and accidentally overdrew my checking account...I was at the grocery store and had a cartful of food and they wouldn't let me buy it because my debit card got declined. I was so humiliated; I had to call my dad and have him bail me out. After that, I learned to keep better track of my money and expenses and I NEVER overdrew my checking account ever again after that!

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