I just read an article about this topic in Real Simple magazine. It is something that runs through my brain on a daily basis. The battle royale: Time vs. money. DIY or call a repairman? Bake homemade cookies for the bake sale or just go buy some? Eat out or eat in? I am not sure I have a solid foundation for determining what I value more in any given situation,  but I definitely think about it. It adds perspective if you have experienced a time when eating out was not an option because the wallet is empty, when DIY is the only option or when baking homemade seems like the best thing to do. I’m all about saving money, but I also realize that there is only so much time in the day. What’s most important?

The article goes on to highlight some factors to consider. Read the magazine if you are interested in their ideas.  I have my own.

1. Will this make you happy if you do it or guilty if you do not? I believe you need to find an element of joy in what you do. Ask yourself, “Will I feel good if I get this done today myself or can I pass on this one?” I’ve spent the last two weekends in our yard. Raking, mulching, planting, cleaning. It didn’t even cross my mind to hire someone to do that. There is a sense of satisfaction when I walk outside the next day and see our yard is done. Sure, I have calluses and need a pedicure but I loved being outside and getting our outdoors ready for spring cookouts. Now I can spend some money on me for that pedicure . . . or do it myself!
2. What time do you really have? In the end, you have to find a balance. If you are a do-it-yourselfer most weekends, when is your family time?Can you involve the family in helping?  We have that chicken coop to build, and I insist that we do it together as a family. The kids are young, but they certainly can help and why not?  They have as much ownership in the project as the grown-ups.

What do you think? What  is your time worth?

Learn more about Julie

Read more from the Parents Panel:

• Happy Mother’s Day . . . and by the way,  it sucks to be you
• Horse sense for parents
• Why, South Carolina?
• Burning the candle at both ends
• The benefits of a built-in babysitter

Categories: *Speaking of Which ... by Julie Stensland, All Articles, Hot Topics, Parents Panel
Tags: features