Nobody wants to pay more for something than they need to. However, there is a big difference between being an informed shopper and knowing fair prices than there is being consumed by paying too much for something. The key lies in the value. Is the item or service you are buying giving you fair value for the price you are paying? What happens in finance is that we are so focused on accumulating a large sum of money that the emphasis on rate of return and fees becomes an issue that actually gets in the way of other more important decision-making criteria. Yes, fees and rates of return are important, however, the ability of the item or service to meet your goals today, and in the future, and to provide significant return on investment to you during the period of time you plan to hold to get value from the item or service is far more relevant in the decision making process than rate of return.

Why? Because anything that keeps you stuck in fear, scarcity and lack will actually inhibit your ability to create wealth today and lifetime financial independence. When you start with a simple decision making hierarchy that begins with matching the item or service with your goals and priorities, start also to consider the time you will be receiving value, and when and how you will get rid of the item or service. And, finally, what tax implications there are, what the return is, and what the costs are for you to maximize the value to you for the item or service being purchased? This allows you to make decisions from a place of connecting your personal priorities with your financial transactions and maintaining control over your lifestyle from a financial perspective.