Friday, February 4, 2022

SPENDING VS. SAVING


Yesterday I shared a poll on IG stories asking if you were to splurge on something, what would it be. Out of the choices (I asked jewelry, handbag/wallet, shoes or to save), I was surprised that the majority picked handbags. Ya'll are after my own heart! I was curious because lately I've been pondering the whole concept behind spending vs. saving. I find myself always having a lot of "wants" but when it comes to spendier purchases, I end up rationalizing reasons not to buy them. I have no problem spending money when it comes to food, everyday essentials, etc., but nowadays I tell myself that spending X on one thing might be better invested/saved for the future, could be used for multiple wants and so on.

From a financial perspective we're winning here, right? You’re saving money and thinking through your purchases. Mentally, I would say not necessarily. I think the idea that too much of one thing is a bad thing can be a factor. I started reflecting on this and my spending at the end of 2021, hence why I made one of my new year's resolutions be to treat myself more. You can read about all of them in this post. I'm starting to learn that only prioritizing saving and/or not having a plan for the money you're saving can feel empty and unfulfilling. Buying too many things can be the same, but it’s also important and okay to spend some of your money on yourself! 

Something I’m going to start doing from now on is prioritizing the splurges (which ones do I actually want and will get use from) and how much I want to spend on them. Like with to-do lists and goals, starting with too many choices becomes overwhelming. Have you ever put a lot of items in your cart but then can’t narrow it down or eliminate any of them? I have! I end up usually NOT buying anything. Keeping a list will help prepare you for the purchase + decide what you really want. It’s also fun to have a wish list! 

Currently pondering my next splurge now... I’ll keep you posted if I bite the bullet! 😅😉

What are you splurging on?