It's 2008, and we seem to be more and more dependent on the plastic cards that we swipe every time we buy something. Do you get the feeling that every time card is swiped, a part of your life is chipped away? Do you ever wonder what happened to the days when actually having paper money meant something? Probably not, but it meant a great deal I'm sure. Some may have taken paper money for granted, so now in the age of the plastic cards, we've become afraid of holding paper money now for fear that it will be taken away.
My example is this: There are things I want, and things I need. With the plastic, I won't have to worry about how much money I have nor would I have to worry about paper money being taken away from me. Bills like the phone, utilities, car, rent, etc. would be paid through plastic, and I wouldn't concern myself with how much is left so I can focus on what I want. Then when the bank statement comes for that month, I find myself overdrawn, and I find myself with my mouth wide open in amazement.
Does that example sound similar to what you're going through? If so, then what has to happen next is to find out why are we so afraid to hold on to paper money and pay cash for everything? My guess it stems from childhood experiences which stuck with us till to the present day. I think financial guru Suze Orman is correct which is we must love holding money again, but we must be disciplined with it too, or we'll never get ahead---but the banks will.
Now I'm not saying to do away with the plastic altogether. What I am saying is to no longer be afraid and face the dollar bills head-on. Treat it well, and it will treat you well.
