Wishes vs. Wants vs. Needs

Have any of you ever wrote out a list of wishes, wants and needs? It would be something to do and consider at some point in one's life. Usually a wish & want list is comprised of mainly things that one just cannot seem to obtain with the income that they currently have. There are times that things will pop up on that list that just so happens to be something that a friend or family member may have that one would "also" like to have. Is it always that one item you "just can't live without" or is it "keeping up with the Jones"?

I rarely if ever have seen a "Needs list" consist of plasma tvs, top of the line car stereos or even Prada accessories.

A needs list is usually comprised of such things as; money to meet bills, food, clothes, auto repairs, home repair (not upgrades & remodelling), health needs, education, and so on.

So while we are writing out our little Christmas lists, let's think of what we need, and put that down. It may even be something that can't be bought, but shared, like a little more time with a friend or family member, homemade dinner instead of eating out, quiet moments with your spouse and so on.

Let's make our "Wish" lists more of a needs list. When such things as XBoxes, WII's, I-Pods and so on or not a need, you could place something on your list that isn't going to make others feel obligated, or feel like crap if they can't afford to get it.

This Christmas, things are going to be very different in many households due to the failing economy, so think of things you could give or ask for that is economically friendly. Let's uncommercialize this holiday, and take it back to the basics. Time spent with family, homemade gifts, pictures with family and friends.

Remember, it's not the cost of the gift, but the thought that the "giver" gave to choosing that gift for you. Love is the Reason for the Season. So I say..."Love more, spend less, share what you already have...YOU."