Many define frugal people as "stingy". However, they lead a lifestyle that goes beyond simply saving money. They are defined by their simplicity, minimalism and other equally interesting dimensions.
Have you heard the term "frugal four" lately? It refers mainly to certain countries such as Austria, Denmark, Sweden as well as the Netherlands. These countries have healthy economies and seem to be leaders in many decisions that affect economic matters. There is also such a thing as "frugal people". What exactly does this term mean and why is it so well known?
Some people misunderstand frugal people as being stingy and even selfish. However, this disparaging view completely obscures an interesting behavioral profile.
Being frugal is a fad. Yet, as strange as it may seem, this characteristic involves a set of approaches, dynamics, beliefs and values that have always existed. It is also true that some countries practice them because they are part of their culture and traditions. The thing is, however, that frugality is not only practiced in the northern regions of Europe. And their dimensions are familiar to most of us.
"I have three precious things that I hold on to and cherish. The first is meekness; the second is frugality; the third is humility, which keeps me from putting myself before others. Be meek and you can be bold; be frugal and you can be generous; avoid putting yourself before others and you can become a leader among people."
Frugal people – what characterizes them?
If you look up "frugality" in the dictionary, you get a clue of what the word means. It is defined by the qualities of prudent, passive, frugal and the best use of time and money. You may recognize it in broad terms as a frugal and even stingy person.
However, it is good to avoid this kind of prejudice. Because not only are they not true, they don't explain the philosophy of frugal people either. Read on to learn more about their true characteristics!
Their time is important and they use it well
Time is not money; time is life. Frugal people know this and that is why one of their main goals is to make the most of each day. What does it mean? Well, it means, for example, that it doesn't make sense to spend all day working. It is about investing only what is necessary to get a salary you can live well on, but not excessively.
Frugal people make the most of every moment, either through leisure, recreation, or productive work. Planning is the key here.
They are efficient in everything they do
Efficiency is the ability to perform certain functions properly. This is not exclusively true for frugal people in the workplace. Instead, they apply it to every major area of their lives, such as. B.:
- They only spend money and consume only when they have to. They are aware of their financial limits and therefore always stick to their budget.
- Also, they don't buy things they don't really need, like z.B. Clothes, appliances and cars. In other words, they don't replace things just for the fun of it and not out of a mere need to have the latest model of a particular product.
They keep their priorities
In the happy life of a frugal person, priorities are clear. They strive and work hard for what they want to achieve and mobilize all their energy for it. However, their sense of frugality is what makes them tick.
Note that such people do not limit themselves to looking only at the present and immediate moment. Rather, they have long-term goals. Therefore, it is also their priority to consider them. That means saving as much as they can every time they get their salary.
Frugal people avoid debt
This is perhaps the biggest advantage of frugal people, who on average have a good standard of living. Their salaries are good and therefore they can also save something. In fact, their efficiency makes it possible to not be tied down by a large mortgage. As you can see, avoiding debt is a top priority.
Frugal people will always prefer to save and buy only when they can afford it, rather than take out a mortgage.
They recycle, take care of their environment and rarely waste resources
Why use a car when you can get around on a bicycle? Frugal people not only save money, they also protect their environment. However, this does not mean that you have to give up a car altogether. The main thing is that you can use it for many years, because it still works.
The same is true in any other area. For example, why have multiple phone and internet contracts when a single provider can cover all the needs of each family member?
Frugal people focus on needs, not wants
These people are rarely guided by their impulses. This does not mean they are cold or stuffy. In fact, the opposite is true. The philosophy of frugality aims above all to strive for an authentic way of life. This includes being clear about your own needs and not chaining yourself to your desires. Because the latter change often, are fickle, and can lead you down the wrong path at any time.
Spending money and incurring debt rarely leads to happiness. It may satisfy a momentary desire, but ideally you should be clear about your true needs, and invest time and effort to achieve them.
Frugal people and the search for inspiration
One interesting factor distinguishes frugal people: the constant search for inspiration, knowledge and connection with the environment. Their goal is clear: to constantly learn in order to improve and progress. We must always look for new methods to continue to be efficient and productive. So continue to invest in your quality of life, but also in social aspects.
In short, this behavior is not only inspiring, but also realistic and worthy of emulation. It is true that frugal countries have a context that favors these approaches. But that doesn't mean you can't follow their approaches as well, as best you can. This is something to keep in mind.