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do you want it do you need it ?

### Do You Want It or Do You Need It?

In a world where consumerism is rampant and the desire for new things is almost constant, distinguishing between what you need and what you merely want becomes crucial. Beth Tate, Oliver Burkeman, and numerous others have explored this idea, providing valuable insights on how to make better purchasing decisions and lead fulfilling lives.

#### What Does It Mean to Need Something?

Merriam-Webster defines “need” as a verb meaning “a lack of something requisite, desirable, or useful.” In simpler terms, if it’s essential for your survival, health, or basic living standards, you need it. For example, you need access to food, shelter, and healthcare. If you’re out of shape and find yourself struggling to take the stairs without getting huffing and puffing, improving your fitness and health would be a need.

#### What About Wanting Something?

On the other hand, “want” is defined as “to have a strong desire for,” something you desire but can live without. Wants are often non-essential but bring joy and enhance our quality of life. For example, if you hanker for a new gadget, it’s a want, not a need.

#### Recognizing the Difference

At times, distinguishing between needs and wants can be challenging. It often involves introspection and sometimes a time-out to assess what truly matters. Here are a few tips from the resources shared to help you make that distinction:

1. **Evaluate Urgency:** Does the object or action fulfill an immediate necessity? A leaking roof needs immediate attention. A new pair of shoes can wait until after you’ve earned the money for it.
2. **Consider Essentials:** Ask yourself if the item or service is a genuine requirement. Do you require a gym membership to maintain your health, or is a routine walk in the park enough?
3. **Reflect on Long-term Goals:** Does the purchase align with your long-term objectives? A financial analyst’s course might be essential for advancing your career, whereas impulse buys often won’t contribute to your goals.

#### Practical Examples

To clarify:

– **Need:** Regular updates on a medical condition, therapy or treatment for a mental health condition, essential utilities like electricity and water.
– **Want:** Luxury items, the latest entertainment gadgets, or eating out for leisure.

#### The Impact of Blurring Lines

Confusing needs and wants can lead to unnecessary spending, financial stress, and a cluttered life. By understanding the difference and making informed decisions, you can save money, reduce stress, and focus on what truly brings value and satisfaction.

#### Insights from Experts

1. **Beth Tate** suggests taking time to reflect and prioritize. She argues that if the urge to buy something continues after some waiting, it might be a legitimate need; if not, it’s a want.

2. **Oliver Burkeman** from The Guardian advises thinking twice, especially about behaviors or items that bring temporary pleasure, like frequent checking of phones or excessive alcohol consumption. He encourages reconsidering such urges.

3. **NPR** recommends creating a budget and prioritizing essential expenses. Writing down your income and expenses can give you a clear understanding of what you truly need, thereby avoiding impulse purchases.

4. **Journey’s “Any Way You Want It”** and **2Pac’s “How Do You Want It?”** touch upon the theme of desires and fulfillment. They remind us that ultimate satisfaction comes from within and not from external material things.

#### Why This Matters

Making a clear distinction between wants and needs is vital for financial health, life satisfaction, and emotional well-being. By focusing on your necessities and enjoying the wants in moderation, you can lead a more intentional and fulfilling life.

#### Conclusion

The question “Do you want it or do you need it?” is more profound than it seems. It challenges us to evaluate our desires, prioritize our resources, and make choices that truly align with our values and needs.

If you’re ever torn between buying that latest gadget or saving for a home, or deciding whether to spend an extra hour on social media or engage in a meaningful hobby, ask yourself this question. Your choices could mean the world to your future happiness and financial stability.

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**Resources:**

– [Do You Need It or Only Want It? Here’s How to Tell the Difference by Oliver Burkeman](https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2020/jul/24/do-you-really-need-it-or-only-want-it-oliver-burkeman)
– [How to Save More Money: 5 Tips to Stop Impulse-Buying by NPR](https://www.npr.org/2020/09/21/915289340/spend-savvier-save-smarter-5-tips-to-stop-stress-spending)
– [Do You Want It or Need It? by Beth Tate](https://bethtate.medium.com/do-you-need-it-or-do-you-want-it-83f45e3ac063)
– [Make Me Better: Do You Want It or Do You Need It?](https://www.makemebetter.net/do-you-want-it-or-do-you-need-it)
– [The Impact of Mimetic Desire by Well+Good](https://www.wellandgood.com/mimetic-desire)
– [Do You Want It or Need It? Excerpt from Illumination](https://medium.com/illumination/do-you-want-it-or-need-it-2f000e2b1400)
– [Do You Want It or Need It? From Creating the Life You Want](https://medium.com/creating-the-life-you-want/do-you-want-it-or-need-it-f365cbfb9c91)

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*Image credit:* [2Pac – How Do You Want It](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jB4t4-4xHPA)

Feel free to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!