As I started discussing back in this post, Maslow’s hierarchy of needs has been in my head since high school. Today let’s look at stuff (I’ll do activities and people later).

As we prepare to move, I’ve really been trying to get rid of “stuff” to make the process easier. There are some things, however, that I’ll probably always desire:

• Laptop and mobile phone
• HDTV and stereo
• Comfortable clothes
• Reliable transportation
• Golf clubs
• Running gear
• Mountain bike
• Downhill ski equipment
• Digital camera
• Groceries in the fridge

Looking at the list, I’d say most of those things are really luxuries. Maslow would probably say clothes and food are base essentials and I’d argue I need the laptop and phone for my livelihood, but the rest are definitely wants and not needs. Those wants haven’t always lead to the best personal finance decisions, I might add.

I’d be the first to admit that I’ve been a snob when it comes to various categories of stuff. I’ve had a privileged life, but I’d say material goods have become less and less important to me as I get older. Now I just look at covering the base needs and anything beyond that is really a gift.

Up next: activities