Confession time! This may come as a shock to some of you, but I have a huge problem rewarding myself. Specifically, I feel guilty whenever I purchase something solely for myself. Now, I’m not talking about buying things for my home like groceries or new towels. I’m talking about things for my own personal enjoyment, like clothing, shoes, purses, and makeup (just to name a few). Crazy right? Go ahead and think it...you’re in good company. My mom thinks I’m crazy. The Stud thinks I’m crazy. So it’s okay for you to think I’m crazy, too. Give me a second to explain…
I have always prided myself on being a “responsible adult.” What do I mean? I work hard every day. I save for our house, my retirement, and for the occasional rainy day. I pay all of my bills on time…including my student loans. I have fabulous credit. I’m just responsible that way! The same logic I use in being responsible is the same logic that hinders me from rewarding myself with the things that I want. Take this for example. There is a certain designer shoulder bag that I have wanted to purchase for about a year, but I have found a million and one ways to justify not buying it. What if something happens to my car? What if something breaks in the house? What if I get sick and I can’t work? Wouldn’t it be better to pay a bill? Wouldn’t it be better to add more to my savings? Wouldn’t it be better to donate money to a charity instead? See…a million and one ways to justify not buying something for myself that I really want…not need…want!
Just in case you’re wondering, I am not cheap. I have no problem and I feel no guilt when I purchase things for others. I am naturally a giving person, and it feels great to purchase birthday/wedding/anniversary/Christmas gifts for my friends and family. I also donate to a variety of charitable organizations throughout the year. That’s just me! If only I could feel the same way when the time comes for me to purchase something for myself…
A few nights ago, I sat in bed thinking about this little issue of mine, and I think I came to some sought of resolution that may help me get over it…follow me! I wake up five days every week and drive to work. I work faithfully and diligently every day. I am fortunate enough to have the type of job that allows me to provide for myself and my family with little struggle. I deserve to reward myself every now and again! What is the point of working hard if you never take the time to enjoy the fruits of your labor? Right? Somehow, the thought of rewarding myself makes it easier to get up and head in to work every day. I know that I am not only working for the things I need, but also the things I want.
The moral of the story is that I am a work in progress. I am working on being good to myself. I am working on eliminating the guilt that accompanies my personal purchases. I am working on occasionally enjoying the finer things in life…within reason of course! You all will be happy to know that I purchased that designer bag today…and I didn’t feel bad about it at all! I’m working on it!
Do any of you feel guilty when making purchases for yourself? Please tell me it’s not just me! Have a great week, and don’t forget to reward yourself!
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