How To Learn The Value Of Money
Tuesday, April 27th, 2010A good mate of mine, Peter, is a fortunate fellow, when he was 17 his parents bought him a top quality car. He was very happy and showed off this car to all of his friends including myself.
His family run a business which offers professional fostering services hence the reason why they could afford to buy him a car.
My dad saw the car and was impressed – I mentioned the fact that I would also love to receive a car for my 17th birthday. He responded with words like, I bet you would. My dad sold composite doors and also advised people on how to obtain quality SEO services; therefore he could afford to buy a car!
My birthday arrived but no car was presented to me, the main present I received was a pair of trainers.
A year later I was now nearing my eighteenth birthday and my father asked me what I would like for my birthday. I told him that I would like a car and he started laughing. Even though he sounded less than enthusiastic I was confident that he would buy me a car.
My birthday arrived and yet again no car, the main present I received was a watch, a very nice watch I must add but again I was disappointed.
I waited a further two months and then decided to use the head on approach. I approached my dad and asked him if he had time for a quick chat. “Of course Steve”. “Well I really need a car dad”. He agreed so I asked him, so what are we going to do then? If you want a car, go and buy a car, he responded. I pointed out to him that I was spending per week more than I was earning, socialising, buying clothes etc. He stated that I really wanted a car that I would make sacrifices to get it but also stated that whatever I saved he would match.
This very much annoyed me at the time, but something I am now grateful for as it has taught me that if you want something, you have to work hard and make sacrifices to obtain it.