Needs vs Wants

Every time you want to buy something, Penny asks one question in her head: "Do I really need this, or do I just like it?"

Needs

Things you must have to live healthily and safely: food, a roof, clothes that fit, school supplies.

Wants

Things you like but can live without: the newest game, snacks at the checkout, a third cap.

The Penny test

Ask yourself: "If I DON'T buy this, will something go wrong?"

• Will something really go wrong (no food, can't go to school)? → need
• Are you just disappointed for an hour? → want

48-hour trick: really want something? Wait two days. Still want it then? Often you've already forgotten — that was a want.

It's not wrong to buy wants. It's just smart to know which one it is.