Unusual Lasting Changes in My Life

Every relationship has the potential to inspire significant personal changes. Whether these changes are trivial or profound, they often have a lasting impact. Here are a few unusual and meaningful changes that my significant other has instilled in me, altering my daily life and even my spending habits.

From Picky Eater to a Balanced Table

Back to my story with my ex-wife, I used to be a 'picky eater,' a term I find quite derogatory. However, my relationship with her introduced a significant shift in my palate and dietary habits. Before meeting her, my vegetable intake was limited to corn and green beans, with a few exceptions like onions, green peppers, and red peppers. Slowly but surely, she introduced me to a variety of vegetables, making them a regular part of our meals. Asparagus, in particular, provided a pleasant surprise, changing my perspective on the vegetable. The enjoyment of asparagus marked one of her few 'victories,' as she persisted in trying to broaden my culinary horizons. Though it was a single victory, it set the foundation for a more balanced diet.

However, my most significant change is my approach to personal hygiene. Before, I was a staunch advocate for quick showers, but she convinced me to switch to long baths. Now, I take one to two baths per week, and I absolutely cherish this time. These baths have become a cherished ritual, offering me a moment of relaxation and indulgence.

A Hacker’s Impact on Financial Habits

Another unexpected change was due to my boyfriend, who is a hacker. He taught me a valuable lesson about free cable, providing me with access to quality entertainment without the hefty monthly expenses. This simple lesson altered my financial habits, saving me over $200 a month while still allowing me to enjoy a wide array of content.

How Many Hours Does That Cost?

The most profound and unconventional change can be attributed to my ex-wife during our time together. She taught me a method to manage spending that has become an integral part of my daily life. My 'per hour' rate approach is based on the idea of calculating how many hours of work an item, service, or even an experience costs. I then assess how many hours of use I expect from the item or experience versus how many hours of work it represents.

For example, a shirt costing $50 at a 10-hour hourly rate means it represents 5 hours of work. Would you wear it for more than 5 hours of work? Would it become a regular part of your wardrobe? Similarly, a concert ticket at $150 equates to 15 hours of work for a few hours of entertainment. Will your memories and enjoyment last longer or is the experience worth potentially sacrificing 15 hours of your life? This method helps me maintain a budget, decide on purchases, and even figure out if I can afford rent or car payments.

I first learned this technique when we were considering moving in together. We carefully calculated our combined incomes and expenses to determine a realistic price range for our new home. Unfortunately, even with our combined incomes, the local rental prices were beyond our means, necessitating several roommates. Despite not moving in together, this method of calculation has remained a valuable tool, allowing me to avoid impulse buys.

Now, whenever I need to make a decision about a purchase, I consider 'how many hours you have to work to buy X.' This thought process has led me to question and reevaluate many of my habits, ultimately streamlining my spending and allowing me to focus on what truly matters.

In conclusion, these changes indicate the profound impact that a significant other can have on our lives. Whether it's expanding our palate, cultivating a new hobby, or changing our financial priorities, the right person can inspire us to grow in ways we never imagined.