Is It Time to Upgrade? 3 Phrases That Mean the Answer is Yes

Making an upgrade to your home's electronics or appliances is a big decision, and one that most people don't take lightly. It takes research, consideration, and of course money, which means you probably put it off for longer than you should. Of course we all try to keep our big investments like mattresses, TVs, or kitchen appliances going for as long as possible, but there comes a point where upgrading just makes sense, whether it's for energy-efficiency reasons or just your own enjoyment. What's more, you may have subconsciously made the decision to upgrade without even realizing it! Here are three phrases you may hear yourself saying that are signs it's time to upgrade.

"The one we have is perfectly fine!"

Dads and non-dads alike may hear themselves making this declaration, and it reveals more than the speaker probably intends. Have you ever noticed that nobody ever calls an item "perfectly fine" when it's brand new? It's a phrase that you use when you're actively making an effort to convince others (and yourself!) that there's no need for a change, which means the idea of upgrading has already been planted in the mind of at least one member of your household. The old "perfectly fine" phrase is a dead giveaway that the appliance or entertainment item requires defending; if it actually were perfectly fine, nobody would be talking about replacing it. Fine is fine, but maybe it's time to do better.

"Huh. How many years ago DID we buy this?"

If you're making a case that a household item doesn't need an upgrade, but you're struggling to remember when you bought it, that's a pretty clear sign it's time for a new one! Appliances and electronics aren't purchases you make every day, so you're almost certainly overdue for an upgrade if your transaction was long enough ago to be hazy in your memory. Another important point here: Technology advances exponentially, and you'll be surprised by the difference a few short years can make in terms of performance, features, and even affordability. You may be able to shop upgrades like quiet dishwashers or big screen TVs for less than you think.

"We can't replace X until we do Y first!"

Ah, the ol' self-created obstacle. This type of thinking isn't limited to household upgrades, but it's always important to recognize it when it pops up. It means you've conceded that at least two household upgrades are needed, but you've come up with reasons for why one can't happen without another. Waiting for perfect conditions before taking action on something is often a convenient excuse to procrastinate. If you're serious about making these changes to your home and not just trying to put off the upgrading, why not view it as a catalyst to tackle the household project as well as making the upgrade? Remember: You are in control!

It's time to put the excuses aside and be real with yourself - now is the time to take the plunge and make that much-needed upgrade to your kitchen, living room, or bedroom. Once you do, there's another phrase you may hear yourself saying: "Why didn't I do this sooner?"