I recently wrote about competing goals. The conflict goes on until you achieve or let go of one of the goals. I keep debating whether to save money or pay down debt. Should I do the thing that might make me happy or eliminate the thing I know makes me unhappy?

Having a nice pile of savings sounds great. No worries when unexpected expenses come up, just use some money from savings. It also gives a sense of freedom. If you see something you really want, you can use savings to take the opportunity instead of passing it by and lamenting what could have been.

Debt on the other hand feels like a millstone. Making the payments every month is a reminder that we bought things we couldn’t afford. It’s not as bad as it sounds. Our current situation is good compared to our foolish 20s and 30s. Still, before we moved back to the US, we were debt free for a few years. Having some debt reminds me how amazing debt-free living felt.

When it comes down to it, the debt bothers me a lot more than lack of savings. Potential happiness is not as compelling as a guaranteed reduction in unhappiness.

What opportunities do you have to eliminate stress or negativity?