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Every yes has a hidden price
Opportunity cost is the value of the best alternative you give up when you make a choice.
The idea
The real cost of a decision is not only the money spent. It is also the next-best use of your time, cash, or attention that becomes impossible.
An example
A €1,000 course costs more than €1,000 if the same money could clear expensive debt—or less if it unlocks a higher salary quickly.
Put it into practice
Before a meaningful choice, ask: “What is the best thing I can no longer do if I choose this?”
Test yourself: You use your only free evening to study instead of seeing a friend. What is the opportunity cost?
The visit with your friend that you give up
The hidden cost is the best alternative you forgo: in this example, spending that evening with your friend.
Explanation and illustrative examples by One Card Wiser. Source linked for further reading.
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