The Hidden Cost of Cheap

May 26

MAY, 27 2025

Going cheap might save money today, but it often costs far more in time, energy, and missed opportunity. The smartest move is to invest upfront in what moves the needle most.

Spend less on what’s replaceable, and more on what accelerates your results.

I just hired a business coach. Not a budget-friendly one. In fact, he’s on the more expensive end of the spectrum. And yet, I couldn’t be more confident in the decision.

Could we have gone cheaper? Of course. There are always ways to cut costs, find a workaround, or DIY way through something. There is definitely a time and a place for that. But here's the thing: cheap can come at a price—and it’s usually hidden. And factoring in the whole cost is a must…

When it comes to growth—whether it’s personal, professional, or organizational—the biggest expense isn’t always money. It’s time. It’s energy. It’s momentum lost by taking the long way around.

Cheap can mean slower. Sloppier. More trial and error. And while not everything needs to be premium, there are key moments where investing upfront saves you significantly down the road.

For example, Harvard Business Review reports that companies that invest in high-quality coaching see a 7x return on investment, outperforming peers in both productivity and profit. It’s not just about spending more, it’s about investing smarter.

Investing in the high-end usually means better advice, avoiding common pitfalls and accelerating progress, which means hitting goals faster with fewer detours. That’s worth paying for.

Again, not everything needs to be expensive. I come out of the startup world and saving pennies is in my blood. But look to save money on commodities. Streamline the areas that don’t drive transformation. But when it comes to the things that make the biggest difference: leadership, strategy, quality, clarity… invest.

The right decision isn’t always the cheapest. It’s the one that takes you furthest, fastest, and with fewer regrets.

Key Idea

Cheap now, costly later. Invest where it counts. Going cheap might save money today, but it often costs far more in time, energy, and missed opportunity. The smartest move is to invest upfront in what moves the needle most.

Takeaway

Spend less on what’s replaceable, and more on what accelerates your results.

Build your Movement

Where in my life or business am I underinvesting in something that really matters?