Money vs. Time
Yesterday, I asked your opinion about the phrase I’ve got more money than time. Like many of you, I have a tendency to use it when I’m choosing an alternative that is a better use of my time. Contrary to some of your opinions, I am not wealthy (don’t claim to be) nor am I lazy. However, I do value my time more than I value my money.
Here are two examples – one with an emphasis on time and the other on money:
- When I moved from MD to VA, I hired a company to clean my 3 story townhome from top to bottom (including floors and windows) so that it was ready for my tenants’ move in date. If I didn’t have the money, I could have cleaned it myself, but I “chose” to spend the day getting settled into our new home. Afterwards, my daughter and I enjoyed the day exploring our new surroundings, which are absolutely fabulous by the way. Y’all should come visit me! LOL
- Cost to hire cleaners: $225, 3 ppl, 1.5 hours
Time saved: 3-4 hours to clean it by myself
- I have several commuting options for work. I could take the bus, commuter van, slug, metro or any combination and my employer would pay nearly 100% of my commuting costs. However, this method would require 1hr+ commuting time – not to mention my nausea, being at the mercy of someone else’s timeliness, sharing personal space with strangers, and my general disdain for public transportation. Therefore, I “choose” to drive my own car.
- Cost: $90/month for parking + gas
Time saved: 1hr+ commute vs. 25 minutes
In both options, I could have spent $0. But the way I see it, if I’m doing something I hate, I’m wasting time, convenience, AND happiness – ALL of which are priceless.
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I’m glad you explained this. It makes perfect sense to me! ;)
i too value time over money. however, i value the environment even more. driving to work when there are more eco-friendly options available is something i have trouble understanding.
How about you come pick me up and carry me 15 miles on your back? I have to be at work by 7:30, so what time should I be ready? [-SM]
*cleaning off my computer monitor* Thanks a LOT, Single Ma! I spilled juice all over the place because I was LOL at your retort to Walktowork…oh my GAWD! You’re so funny that it’s not funny!
Glad you explained this, initially I thought “more money than time” was due to working too hard, which is why it made me sad. I think a less confusing way to say this would be: “I value time more than money”
“I’ve got more money than time” is what I say because it’s what I mean. There are 24 limited hours in a day and you can’t create anymore. However, I can earn an unlimited amount of money whenever and however I choose.
Anything can be confusing if you’re not privy to the context in which it is being used. [-SM]
LMAO.. and here I am thinking you done hit the lotto!!!! You always playing with my emotions Nettie!!! :)
Ok.. I feel you here… TIME is of the essence to me and I don’t care what it is.. give me my time.. When I worked at that other place.. YES I opted to drive to work too.. less time for the commute and turned out to be CHEAPER option :) I digg this.. but not many are in the same position to make those options so freely :(
LMAO @ you telling walktowork to carry you on their back LMAO to save the enviornment.. HAHAHAA funny they don’t know if you drive a hybrid LMAO What is your car was ecofriendly? LOL
I am also glad you explained why you asked! I responded based on what I think when people say that kind of thing out loud. Sort of like that coworker you mentioned that constantly talked about how much $$ he had when really he was broke.
Yes, there are many instances when it makes more sense to spend the money to save the time. I always do a quick bit of math in my head to determine if a convenience/luxury will actually save/make money in the long run. Somehow I always manage to make the math work in my favor :)