Stick With It

Once I learn this, I will upgrade to something better.

When I need those functions, I will change to something that has them.

I will start with this because I can afford it.

What excuses do you have for using substandard tools?

It's not that the tool that you picked is bad, but perhaps you were not looking at the big picture.

The tool I am talking about here is mostly software, but it can apply to power tools, vacuum cleaners, hedge cutters or just about anything else.

When picking a tool that we need, we often use criteria that really doesn't support our long term use of the tool.  We look for inexpensive.  Easy to use.  But those criteria may not serve us well in the long run.

If we need to upgrade later, or if we need additional functions, then we have to start the whole process over again.  Time wasted on the second decision process. 

If we need to buy another product, the money from the first purchase would have offset part of the price of the second.

Time Is Money Too

Perhaps the biggest problem with buying something with the anticipation of upgrading later is this:  You have spent time and money two times to essentially buy a single solution.  Moreover, you are spending time learning two products, rather than spending all of that time on one product and becoming more expert at it.  

Buying Recommendation

If you are going to buy a tool that you will anticipate that you will be using for a long time and/or you will become an essential tool for you, then buy bigger and better than you think you need ... then learn it and stick with it.

That time, effort and money concentrated on a single purchase will provide you with far better return on your investment than a "buy then upgrade" mentality.  

Last, if you already have tools at your disposal and you are looking at upgrades, stop and really look at what you have.  Do the tools you already have provide the functions you need, and perhaps you just don't know how to use them?  Isn't it a better use of your time to learn what you already have rather than waste time searching for a different solution or product?  

Stick With It

What tools do you already have?  Are you using them to their full potential?

What tools do you need? Be sure to buy those that will meet your needs now, and into the future.

If you don't have time or money to buy the right tool and learn it the first time, what makes you think you will have the time and money to replace that tool in the future?