The true measure of wealth isn’t in what we buy, but in what we choose not to.
There’s a saying that a fool and his money are soon parted, but what about the wise? They’re not just saving for a rainy day; they’re building a fortress against financial folly. They understand that every dollar spent is a choice, an opportunity cost. It’s not about being cheap, but about being strategic, about recognizing that true value lies in things that appreciate, not those that clutter up a closet.
In a culture that often encourages us to keep up with the Joneses, a savvy spender knows that the Joneses are probably up to their eyeballs in credit card debt. They’ve mastered the art of delayed gratification, understanding that fleeting trends are just a money pit. So, what are the items that often get left on the shelf when a sharp mind goes shopping? Let’s take a look.
Extended Warranties
Think of extended warranties as a form of insurance you probably don’t need. These policies often come with a high price tag and are riddled with fine print that makes them difficult to use. A savvy shopper knows that most products are built to last beyond the manufacturer’s warranty, and if something does break, the cost of repair is often less than the warranty itself. Many products, ranging from electronics to appliances, exhibit a low failure rate in the years following their initial purchase.
Designer Clothes At Full Price
Fast fashion is a trap. The clothes fall apart after a few washes, and you’re back at the store for more. Smart people understand the difference between quality and a brand name. They know that a well-made, classic piece will last for years. They’ll also wait for a sale, hit up a thrift store, or use a consignment shop to get a designer item for a fraction of the original price.
Brand New Cars
The minute you drive a new car off the lot, its value plummets. It’s a cliché for a reason. Smart folks know this is one of the worst investments you can make. They’d rather let someone else take that initial hit, opting instead for a used car that’s a few years old but still has plenty of life left in it. According to Ramsey Solutions, the average new car depreciates by about 20% in its first year of ownership. That’s a massive chunk of change to lose just for the new car smell. But, of course, if you have a lot of money and are very comfortable, why not?
Bottled Water
The cost of bottled water can add up quickly, not to mention the environmental impact of all that plastic. A reusable water bottle is a one-time purchase that can save you a bundle over time. A study by the Beverage Marketing Corporation found that the average American consumed over 42 gallons of bottled water a year. That’s a significant amount of money and a substantial number of plastic bottles to drink water.
Overpriced Coffee
That daily latte from the corner coffee shop might seem like a small indulgence, but it’s a significant drain on your budget. Brewing your own coffee at home is a simple switch that can save you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars a year. It’s a perfect example of a small, repetitive cost that, over time, becomes a significant expense. The average American spends about $1,100 a year on coffee, according to CNBC.
Expensive Cable Packages
With the rise of streaming services, paying for a huge cable package with channels you never watch is a thing of the past. A sharp person will cut the cord and choose a few streaming services that offer the shows and movies they actually want to see. This move can save you a substantial amount of money each month. A report by MNTN Research revealed that 50 million U.S. households had cut the cord, marking a significant shift in how Americans consume media.
Brand Name Groceries
Supermarket shelves are lined with brand-name products, but smart shoppers know that generic, store-brand items are often just as good, if not identical. The ingredients are frequently the same, and the savings are real. The money saved on one grocery trip may seem small, but over the course of a year, it can add up to a significant amount that can be used for other purposes.
Latest Smartphones
Do you really need the latest smartphone with a slightly better camera or a new chip? For many people, the answer is no. Savvy individuals know that a phone from last year or even the year before will still do everything they need it to. MarketWatch reports that American consumers keep their smartphones for an average of over 3 years. This suggests that people are holding onto their devices for longer.
Timeshares
Timeshares are notoriously difficult to sell and can come with endless fees and costs. It’s a classic example of a purchase that sounds good on paper but can become a financial burden. Savvy consumers know that renting a vacation home or a hotel room is often a more cost-effective and flexible option. The flexibility of renting means you’re not tied to one location or a specific time of year. The average timeshare maintenance fee increased to $1,480 per year in 2024 and is expected to continue rising.
Lottery Tickets
The lottery is often referred to as a “tax on the poor” for a reason. The odds of winning big are astronomical. A person with a financial plan knows that their money is better spent on investments that have a real chance of growing. The occasional lottery ticket might be a fun distraction, but as a financial strategy, it’s a non-starter.
Impulsive Purchases
Retail therapy might feel good in the moment, but it’s a habit that can lead to a lot of regret. Intelligent people have a plan for their money. They don’t just buy things because they’re on sale or because they feel like they deserve a treat. They ask themselves if the purchase aligns with their long-term goals.
Things To Impress Others
Maintaining appearances can be an expensive endeavor. Buying a flashy car or a bigger house to impress others is a surefire way to empty your bank account. A person who is secure in themselves doesn’t need external validation from their possessions. They prioritize financial freedom and peace of mind over the opinions of others.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information. It is not intended to be professional advice.
How Total Beginners Are Building Wealth Fast in 2025—No Experience Needed
How Total Beginners Are Building Wealth Fast in 2025
I used to think investing was something you did after you were already rich. Like, you needed $10,000 in a suit pocket and a guy named Chad at some fancy firm who knew how to “diversify your portfolio.” Meanwhile, I was just trying to figure out how to stretch $43 to payday.
But a lot has changed. And fast. In 2025, building wealth doesn’t require a finance degree—or even a lot of money. The tools are simpler. The entry points are lower. And believe it or not, total beginners are stacking wins just by starting small and staying consistent.
Click here and let’s break down how.
5 Easy Steps to Change Any Habit
5 Easy Steps to Change Any Habit
We all click on them with the hope that just THIS time the secret to changing a bad habit or adopting a healthy one will be revealed and we’ll finally be able to stick to that diet, stop that one or ten things that might in the moment make us feel temporarily good but really just make us fat, unhealthy, sad, mad or just frustrated with ourselves.
