Frugal means different things to different people. The online Webster dictionary says frugal means “reflecting economy in the use of resources.” I want to extend that definition to include that the use of a resource must also hold value in relationship to your life’s core values. To me, frugal means to focus your resources on only those things that make a lasting difference in your life. It means to make the very most of your resources be they time, money, attention or energy. A frugal person doesn’t waste time on a bad relationship or a bad toaster. Frugality cannot always be measured by the price tag. A frugal person lives their life on purpose so they can extract the maximum benefit from the few years spent on this planet.
I love to travel. Travel enriches my life while I’m there and enriches my life with stories and pictures for years (decades) afterwards. For me, travel is frugal. I like to look at cars. However, I own them only out of necessity. I use them as tools. As long as they get me from point A to point B I’m satisfied. A junker is frugal. A late-model car is definitely NOT frugal.
Therefore, I claim that at the core of frugality is focus. Focus your resources on what brings you and others the best.
I’m curious, what do you think?
Frugal Pilgrim 