Joy Budget
I lived out of a carry-on suitcase for 5 months when I was in rural China in my early 20s. I had about 5 outfits - all of which I truly loved - almost zero books, no knicknacks and just the most essential toiletries.
When I returned to the US and went to the average American home, almost everything looked like clutter to me,
Since then, I’ve tried to live an ascetic lifestyle by only allowing myself to buy practical items.
I know that experiences are supposed to bring people the most joy so for many years I have restricted myself from “retail therapy”.
However, as I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized that some physical objects can bring me happiness, like a luxuriously plush cotton robe I bought because my husband got a gift card through work.
Everytime I put on this robe I feel happy because it’s warm, soft, and substantial -- a wearable blanket. The kids love this robe and always clamor to wear it or be hugged under it.
It got me thinking - perhaps spending more money on myself, rather than denying myself most luxuries - can bring me happiness.
Since I’ve been an ascetic for years, I have to force myself to spend money on myself. I’ve created a Google Doc with a budget to aim for and track my purchases to see if I can come anywhere near that budget.
So far my recent purchases have included:
-Food: expensive chocolate made at a local WOC-owned boutique; splurging at a pricey Japanese restaurant which we can afford but don’t normally frequent.
-Beauty: lovely scented facial day cream.
-Travel: staying at a nicer hotel and room type than we normally do.
-Memories: encouraging husband and kids to take a ski lesson (I passed because of a knee injury). My younger child in a ski lesson meant I did not have to take her sledding and I could take a walk.
-Mental health: buying a daily calendar with optimism quotes (I normally try to avoid buying books to avoid clutter). Purchasing tulips and strawberries from the farmer’s market.
In writing this list I see that many of my joy purchases are still consumables so hopefully my home won’t be too cluttered.
It’s been a mindshift shift to try for more mini splurges to improve quality of life. As someone who consistently supports and empowers others through my various roles as a mother, wife, daughter and coach, it’s a reminder that I’m important and I matter too.
Do you have an easy time spending money on yourself? Do you spend on luxury or indulgences? What’s your strategy or system to ensure you do that?
