Spend With Purpose: Why an Extra Phone Won’t Build Wealth, but Smart Investments Will

Estimated read: 6 minutes

These days, it’s tempting to buy the latest gadgets. Phones, laptops, and trendy accessories often feel like symbols of success. But the question is: are they really adding value to your life, or just draining your pocket?

My Experience: Phone or Livestock?

Not long ago, I was about to buy an extra phone. It wasn’t that I needed it — my old one still worked fine. I simply wanted it for lifestyle and appearance.

But I paused and asked myself: “Will this phone grow in value or lose value over time?”

Instead of spending the money on a new phone, I bought two sheep — one male and one female.

A few days ago, the female gave birth. Suddenly, I had three sheep instead of two. My money had multiplied.

If I had bought the extra phone, it would already be losing value, feeling outdated, and worth far less than what I paid.

The Lesson: Assets vs. Liabilities

This simple decision taught me a big lesson.

• Phones depreciate. Once you buy them, their value starts dropping immediately.

• Livestock and real investments appreciate. They grow, reproduce, or generate income over time.

A phone can only be considered an investment if it helps you earn money — for example, through content creation, online business, or digital services. Otherwise, it’s just an expense.

Why Many People Go Broke

Many people buy extra phones or flashy items just to show off. It feels good in the moment, but in the long run, those things don’t build wealth.

Real wealth comes from spending money on things that work for you, not against you.

Start Small, Be Patient

You don’t need millions to start investing wisely. Like me, you can begin with something small:

• A pair of sheep or goats

• A small farm plot

• A small e-commerce business

• Or even digital tools that help you make money online

With patience and discipline, these small steps can grow into something big.

Final Thoughts

Before you buy that next “shiny” item, ask yourself:
👉 “Will this grow in value, or will it lose value?”

Smart entrepreneurs let their money work for them, not just for show. Lifestyle fades, but investments multiply.

Spend with purpose. Build assets. Watch your wealth grow.

Mimi Awobode 

✨ Have you listed your business on Afri54? Afri54 exists to solve a fundamental challenge faced by millions of African businesses: lack of visibility. Whether you’re a livestock farmer in Kenya, a small shop owner in Accra, or a digital entrepreneur in Lagos, Afri54 helps bring your business online for the world to see. 👉 Join now