There is what we need whether we like it or not. There’s also what we want, but between these two, one is more important and the other one is achievable too when you learn to set your priorities right. In this blog, we will look at how to prioritise your basic needs and wants so you can live a holistic lifestyle.

What Are Basic Needs?

Basic needs are the things you must have or use to maintain your status as a human being. When we think of basic needs, we’re talking about food, shelter, clothing, healthcare, and education. The top three basic needs are food, shelter, and clothing. You could probably do without education or serious healthcare, but you can’t do without food, shelter, and clothing. They’re essentials that keep you healthy, safe, and ready to tackle life. For example, if you’re trying to focus at work or school while you’re equally hungry or don’t have a safe place to sleep. It’s almost impossible to focus, right? Basic needs are basic for a reason, they’re the least needs that keep you running and efficient.

Why Basic Needs Are Non-Negotiable

These needs are called “basic” for a reason; they’re the minimum required for you to live a stable life. Ignoring your basic needs could make life harder and can derail your future.

Ignoring your basic needs has consequences. It’s not just about feeling hungry or cold; it’s about other unexpected things that could happen when these needs aren’t met. One of them is serious health issues, not to mention the stress and anxiety that come with instability. It can feel like you’re always playing catch-up, struggling to stay focused. This isn’t just tough on individuals; it strains a community. When too many people can’t meet their basic needs, it could affect public resources, healthcare systems, etc. This is another reason why prioritising these needs is important for everyone’s sake.

What Are Wants?

Wants are the things we daydream about, like the latest smartphone, designer clothes, or all those fancy cars. Wants are tied to our desires and passions, they add some excitement and pleasure to our lives. Wants can make our lives enjoyable, but they’re not what we need to live a healthy and safe life. Wants are—nice to have, not must-haves.

Indulging in want now and then is about personal fulfillment and happiness. For example, going to a concert of your favorite band or buying that piece of art that speaks to you can lift your spirits. These moments create memories and bring satisfaction that goes beyond the basic needs.

Balancing Needs and Wants

There’s nothing wrong with allowing yourself some indulgences here and there. It could be to reward your hard work and celebrate milestones, whether big or small. If you fit these pleasures into your budget without compromising your basic needs, that’s what shows you are a person who understands balance.

Have you ever asked if between basic needs or wants, which one can easily land you in a deep-rooted credit card debt? When it comes to your basic needs, they are essential, and your income should easily take care of that unless you’re living above your means. So, there’s no one correct answer, if you live above your means, you may need to use a credit card to balance up. In the same vein, if you are  given to indulgences, your credit card will carry that weight.

To fit wants into your budget, start by covering all your needs first. Once you’re sure your basic needs are taken care of, allocate a portion of any leftover funds for your wants. This might mean setting aside a small “enjoyment money” fund each month. This is your plan to spend on whatever brings you joy, as long as it’s within this limit.

Conclusion 

It could sometimes feel like there’s a thin line between needs and wants, but the difference is as clear as the day. You can’t do without food but you can do without a personal car. You can’t do without a shelter, but you can do without a TV. Do you see the difference now? There are other things that could be basic needs for your job or career, so it can sometimes be relative. What’s more important is, you have to be smart and don’t get carried away with spending.

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