Do You Need It or Just Want to Need It? A Guide to Smarter Spending

Financial Health

By Tokiso TKay Nthebe

We live in a world of instant everything—click, buy, delivered. Social media keeps us wanting more, and that “treat yourself” culture can blur the line between needs and wants.

Whether you’re a young professional building your career, a budding entrepreneur in Maseru, or a Mosotho living in the diaspora chasing dreams abroad—impulse spending can quickly derail your financial goals.

Let’s get back to basics and unpack the difference between a need and a want—and more importantly, how to avoid spending money on things you just want to need.

What is a Need?

A need is essential for your survival and wellbeing. Think:

  • Food and clean water
  • Shelter and clothing
  • Healthcare and safety

Without these, your life and security are at risk. These should always take first priority in your budget.

Searching for the difference between needs and wants

What is a Want?

A want is something that adds joy, comfort, or status—but you can live without it.
Examples include:

  • The latest iPhone
  • Designer fashion
  • Exotic getaways
  • Fancy dinner dates

Wants are not “bad.” Budgeting for them responsibly makes life fulfilling. But unchecked, they can lead to debt, stress, and regret.

Ask Yourself: Do You Really Need It?

Often, we justify wants with statements like:

  • “It’s on sale, so I’m saving money.”
  • “I work hard—I deserve it.”
  • “I need it for this event.”
  • “All my friends have it.”

But before you swipe your card, pause and ask:
👉 Do I need it, or am I trying to convince myself I do?

How to Avoid Overspending

Here are four practical tips you can apply today:

  1. Write it Down: List your personal needs vs wants. Be honest. Seeing them helps you make better decisions.
  2. Plan for Your Wants: It’s okay to want nice things—just plan for them.  How much do you need? When do you want it?
  3. Set Boundaries: Decide how much you’re willing to spend on wants each month. Use spending limits or alerts.
  4. Delay Gratification: Don’t buy on impulse. Sleep on it. If you still want it tomorrow—and can afford it—go for it. If not, skip it.

Final Thoughts

Before your next swipe, ask yourself:
💬 Do I need this, or do I just want to need it?

Remember:

“Don’t medicate stress and fatigue with impulsive buying. A shopping spree will only set you back even more.” – Unknown

Tokiso TKay Nthebe is an author, podcast host, financial coach and lead advisor at TKO Financial Wellness & Advisory who is passionate about financial wellness, education and financial planning. Subscribe to the FREE email newsletter for personal finance content and tips. 

For more visit www.tkofinancialwellness.com or email info@tkofinancialwellness.com

Disclaimer: This article is not financial advice, please consult a financial adviser for financial advice.