"Money can't buy happiness." We've heard this phrase a million times, but in a way, money can buy happiness.
Now of course, by no means can you go to the store and purchase the emotional state of being happy, but one can certainly treat themselves to something that results in happiness. Family vacations, Christmas and birthday presents, a brand new car, etc. are not free, but they do bring people joy and excitement. Materialistic items should never me categorized as the only means of achieving happiness, but it's no question that receiving these things that we admire bring us joy.
With adulthood comes paying bills, buying groceries, filling your gas tank and many other expenses that allow you to comfortably live. In order to afford all of this, we must have a job that we work hard at so we earn the money that enables us to not only support ourselves, but to enjoy different luxuries as well. I think we often forget to allow ourselves some leeway to make purchases that bring us joy because we fear that it will be out of our budget. Although I am nearly the biggest convict of this, I have been trying to give myself more credit for working hard for my money and giving myself the freedom to treat myself to something that makes me happy every once in a while. I will often doubt myself and say, "No, I don't need that," but what I am really thinking is, "But I really, really want that..."
If you find yourself thinking, "I really, really want that..." about something that will make you happy, then by all means, get it! Even if it is a gift for someone else, if it makes you happy to bring someone else joy, then that is your money well spent. As long as you have a good understanding of where you stand financially and what amount of leeway you can give yourself without completely breaking the bank, you are in the clear. Perhaps you could even try setting aside a set amount of money each paycheck that is designated for something that makes you happy, whether it be a tangible item or even a weekend getaway with friends. Whatever it is, give yourself a break from only paying for the lousy things (like bills, ugh) and reward yourself for all of the hard work you've put in to earn that money in your pocket.
As perviously stated, I can be the biggest victim of hoarding my money in fear of feeling guilty for spending it on something that I do not "need." However, I was given a pep-talk by one of my friends when we were shopping together after I asked her if I should buy a lipstick that I had had my eyes on for the longest time. She replied, "If anyone ever asks me my opinion on whether or not they should buy something, I will always say yes. For all you know, you could die tomorrow!" Not to sound too morbid or anything, but she's right! Tomorrow isn't promised, so give yourself little pick-me-ups along the way and don't take life too seriously all the time. Cute shoes are made for a reason; buy them!
As long as you stay the hard worker that you are, money will always be coming in and you will always be given another opportunity to invest in whatever it is that you want or need. Whatever it may be, never let money conquer what makes you happy. Be savvy with your earnings, but never selfish. You may not think that you deserve it, but I am here to tell you that you do! Treat yo self!
