Every once in a while, I think to myself, “If I had known then what I know now, I would have…”. I had plenty of these moments in college. For example, I chose several majors that did not work out for me. If I had taken the time to examine my interests and to find out what classes were involved in pursuing the majors I chose, I might have chosen a more appropriate field of study. Another college experience that I am reminded of that brings this phrase to mind are the many afternoons that I spent in the Student Union computer lab, playing “Who Wants to be a Millionaire?” If I had known then what I know now, I would have changed into workout clothes and walked the campus, picking up coins. Had I gone walking, I would have gotten some sun, fresh air, and exercise, and I would have made some money. While playing the game was not the best way to spend my time, I do not regret it, however, because I got to see a good friend of mine. That made my whole day better. Recently, I had another moment when I thought to myself, “If I had known then what I know now.”

I was online, trying to find a tour schedule for the band known as The Script. I am a fan, and I would love to see them in concert. I did some research, and I learned that they will be coming to Dallas, Texas as part of their Mermaids of Alcatraz Tour. They will be touring with Train and Gavin DeGraw. The three acts will be performing at the Gexa Energy Pavilion in Dallas the evening of August 3, 2013. If you are interested in attending this concert, ticket information is available online. I would love to see this show. However, I do not have the money, which once again brings up the thought “If I had known then what I know now.” I might have had the money if I had not engaged in some foolish spending when I was in college.

For example, I love coffee. When I was going to school, there was a well-known coffee establishment within walking distance of campus. After class, I was fond of walking over there to buy a cup of coffee. I felt that I needed a pick-me-up, so coffee seemed like a good idea at the time. I could have saved my money and gotten the same pick-me-up by listening to my favorite music, working out, or taking a nap, however. I could have also made my own coffee, which would have been cheaper.

Another way I could have helped myself out back then to prepare for what I want to do now is by saving my money from book buyback. At the end of the semester, I always looked forward to selling my textbooks. Selling them would get them off my back (literally), and it would give me some spending money. I did not get much money when I sold my textbooks, but the little bit that I did get made me feel good. Rather than saving my money, however, I usually wound up spending it on something.

Be smart with your money. That way, you will be able to do what you want to do, rather than missing out on something that you wanted to be part of.