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Okie Life

Helping fellow Okies navigate financial life.

A Guide on How to Treat Yourself (Responsibly)

November 1, 2024

We’ve all had one of those days where things don’t go quite as planned. Maybe you missed a deadline or got a flat tire on the way to work. It’s times like these when a “little treat” feels like the perfect way to turn your day around.

Whether it’s your favorite coffee or an ice cream from your favorite spot, we can all use a pick-me-up in these moments. However, if these “little treats” become a daily habit, they can really start to impact your budget.

Treat Yo Self Meme

Moderation is Key

Don’t stress! You don't have to give up these treats entirely. Everything is fine in moderation. There’s a way to enjoy them responsibly without breaking the bank. Here are some ways you can still indulge while maintaining a budget:

Putting a Limit to Treats

One of the easiest ways to keep your spending on track is to limit how often you treat yourself. Setting a cap on how many times you can buy yourself a little something special can help ensure you’re not overspending.

For example, you might order your favorite meal from a delivery service once a week or buy your favorite flowers once every other week. You can still have your favorite things, just not every day!

Britney Spears drinking a coffee

Avoid Overspending

Another great way to ensure your treats aren’t getting out of hand is by setting a price limit. By setting a maximum amount you’ll allow yourself to spend on yourself, you can still indulge, but in a way that won’t blow your entire budget.

For example, instead of splurging on a new expensive designer bag, you can still buy yourself something nice, just at a more reasonable price!

Woman carrying multiple shopping bags

Your Little Treats Budget

If you feel like little treats are unavoidable, taking the time to budget specifically for them may be the way to go! Setting aside a specific amount each month just for these indulgences is a responsible way to reward yourself. This way, you don’t have to deprive yourself.

That money was set aside just for that! Just make sure you don’t get too carried away and overspend.

Mental Health and Finances

It’s important to remember that budgeting and creating financially responsible habits doesn’t mean you aren’t allowed to treat yourself every now and then. Allowing yourself simple pleasures in life can be huge to your mental health and is just as important as your financial health. By setting limits and creating budgets, you’ll be able to splurge in a healthy way that doesn’t strain your finances.

 

The information and topics features are for information purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax or financial advice. All financial situations and circumstances are different and may not apply to the specific information provided. Seek the advice of a financial professional, tax consultant, or legal counsel to obtain guidance specific to your needs.