I’ve started compiling my net worth report early this month,for a change.  Quite frankly, I’m  disappointed in myself for making several large purchases in the same month.  Normally I’m pretty good at spreading large purchases out over time, so they don’t hit quite as hard.  Not this time around.  I made two major purchases in June 2009, and my net worth suffered greatly as a result.

Learn to spread purchases out

You should know by now that I don’t mean buy your large items on credit, because I certainly don’t advocate that.  Unless you can afford to buy the item in cash, and you have a 0% interest opportunity, you should never make large buys on credit.  What I mean is, if you know that you have several large costs coming up, don’t stick them all together.  Buy 1 item this month, another next month, and the last 2 months from now.

Whatever your plan, the idea is to spread things out, putting some purchases off into the future.  The longer you can delay most purchases, the better off you will be.  Draining your cash reserves can be unnerving in the best of times, and quite frightening in today’s troubled economic times.  Slowing your purchases down is a great way to keep more cash in the bank.  Build up your cash reserves a bit, before spending again.

The goal is not to deprive yourself of the things you want or need.  Simply to pace yourself, and ensure that you don’t get into the habit of taking large purchases lightly.  Plan then out, push them out, and take your time.  Your wallet, and net worth, will thank you.