Are you struggling to spend money on yourself, despite being comfortable spending on loved ones? You’re not alone. Many people find it challenging to prioritize themselves when it comes to splurging on personal items. But it’s essential to take care of yourself and treat yourself occasionally. Here’s a personal story and some strategies to help you loosen up your spending habits.
Overcoming Frugality Disease: A Personal Journey
Recently, I had a breakthrough moment in my journey to overcome what I like to call “frugality disease.” I decided to splurge on private lessons for my two kids, costing me $160 for an hour. In the past, I would’ve never spent such an amount. However, seeing how happy my kids were during their parkour group lessons convinced me it was worth it. The joy they experienced was priceless, and I realized that investing in their happiness was one of the best ways to decumulate wealth.
Despite this victory in spending more for my kids, I still struggled to spend on myself. The guilt of buying unnecessary items lingered, reflecting the sacrifices I’ve made to achieve financial independence. But I knew I needed to make a change.
The Inability to Spend Money on Myself
For years, I’ve believed that sacrifice and discipline are essential for success. But I also recognized the importance of self-care and treating oneself. It’s okay to indulge in things that bring you joy, even if they aren’t strictly necessary.
As I contemplated buying a new jacket and shoes for myself, I found it challenging to make the purchase. Despite being willing to spend on my kids, spending on myself felt like a betrayal of my frugal habits. I realized I needed to find a way to break this pattern.
Strategies for Spending on Yourself
If you struggle to spend money on yourself, consider enlisting the help of a significant other or a close friend. Having a “gatekeeper” to oversee your purchases can add accountability and alleviate the guilt of spending on yourself. By removing yourself from the spending process, you may find it easier to treat yourself without feeling guilty.
It’s essential to remind yourself that it’s okay to spend on things that bring you joy and improve your quality of life. Here are some strategies to help you feel better about spending on yourself:
- Take care of yourself: Prioritize your well-being and treat yourself occasionally.
- Reward yourself: You work hard, and you deserve to enjoy the fruits of your labor.
- Find a balance: While saving is important, it’s also essential to indulge in things that bring you happiness.
- Enjoy the present: Life is short, and it’s okay to spend on things that make you happy.
Conclusion
Remember, it’s essential to strike a balance between saving for the future and enjoying the present. Treating yourself occasionally is a way to reward yourself for your hard work and dedication. By finding strategies to overcome your reluctance to spend on yourself, you can improve your overall well-being and happiness.
Reader Questions And Suggestions
Do you struggle to spend money on yourself? How do you overcome this reluctance? Share your experiences and strategies in the comments below!
Free Financial Consultation Offer: If you have investable assets of $250,000 or more, schedule a free appointment with an Empower financial professional before October 31, 2024, and receive a complimentary $100 Visa gift card. It’s always a good idea to get a second opinion about your investments, especially during uncertain times.