When it comes to financial decisions and your personal political, social and religious beliefs, do your money habits fall in line? These are, of course, personal decisions. However your beliefs can easily affect how you choose to spend your money. You may choose to spend more on certain items, because you feel strongly about the benefits of doing so, or you may choose to save on others areas because you do not feel that you should support certain organizations.
One area that many people choose to spend more money on is organic food. Organic food generally costs more, although there are ways that you can cut costs. However, many people feel strongly about the health benefits of eating food that is hormone and pesticide free. You may decide that all you can afford is the hormone free milk if you are trying to save money or you may choose to cut back on entertainment expenses in order to buy more organic food for your family.
Another area that many people may initially spend more money is when it comes to environmentally friendly purchases. Hybrid or electric cars are more expensive when you first purchase them, but you do save money on the gasoline/fuel costs over time. Similarly, solar panels are very expensive to install, and while you save money on your power bill, you may not save enough to make up the cost of installation. An on-demand water heater costs less to run, but does cost more to install. However if you feel strongly about protecting the environment, then the initial more expensive costs may be worth it to you.
Similarly if you have strong beliefs about certain organizations you may decide that you want to donate money to their causes. This is an important part of being responsible with your money. It is important to help others when and where you can. I believe that when you do this, it should be to causes that you really stand behind. Be sure that you understand where your money is going and whom it is helping.
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