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15 Times People Feel Ashamed About Spending Money But Shouldn't

Break free from the guilt of treating yourself with these eye-opening insights.

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Updated Sept. 24, 2024
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Saving money by living frugally fills some folks with pride. But there are times when spending is not only justifiable but absolutely necessary.

No matter how determined you are to build wealth, you shouldn't feel bad about spending money on items that contribute to your health, wellness, and overall happiness.

Here are 15 items you should spend money on without feeling guilty.

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Bedding

Vusal/Adobe dalmatian cuddled up on a bed

We spend much of our lives in bed, and high-quality bedding that encourages good sleep can be life-changing.

Sleep deprivation is linked to several chronic health issues, so purchasing the right bedclothes, a quality mattress, and comfortable bedding is money well spent.

Computer

MVProductions/Adobe working on laptop in cafe

Our world relies on technology. A slow, sluggish computer can be unreliable and waste precious time — especially if you rely on it for work or school.

Investing in a dependable machine is worth every penny, particularly if your grades or income are tied to your computer.

Warm winter coat

MaryCatalan/Adobe woman with penguins in background

The phrase “buy it nice or buy it twice” applies here. Those who have spent money on a nice winter coat know the difference quality makes.

With a warm winter coat, you can ski the slopes or simply enjoy walking through a winter wonderland more comfortably. A quality winter coat may initially set you back, but it will pay dividends over time.

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Car repairs

DragonImages/Adobe car mechanic talking to owner

Few things are worse — or more inconvenient — than getting stuck on the side of the road with a broken-down car.

Save yourself the tow-truck bill and get your car fixed as soon as you hear that rattling sound or spot some leaking fluid. Having reliable transportation is never something to feel guilty about, even if you have to pay for it.

Going to the doctor

chingyunsong/Adobe male doctor with senior people

Your health should be a top priority. Putting off a trip to the doctor can allow minor health concerns to fester and become bigger issues, requiring you to spend even more money.

So, don’t put your health at risk to save a few bucks.

Travel

day2505/Adobe romantic couple traveler

Travel offers culture, unforgettable memories, and an opportunity to see outside ourselves. In fact, most of us only regret the trips we don’t take.

Ditch the guilt about taking a well-earned vacation or that once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Hobbies

Daniel Laflor/peopleimages.com/Adobe senior man working on a painting

Whatever your interests — movies, video games, knitting, or baking — hobbies can add to your quality of life.

Include a line item in your budget for your passions and interests. Putting cash toward hobbies that bring you joy is a smart way to spend your cash.

Headphones

Nina L/peopleimages.com/Adobe headphones to listen to music

Cheap headphones often don’t last, so spending more on these items is wise.

Comfortable, quality headphones can make all the difference when drowning out distractions and increasing your productivity.

Healthy food

Halfpoint/Adobe senior couple preparing food in the kitchen

Buying fresh whole foods is worth the additional expense. Including nutrient-dense foods in your diet will improve your overall health.

Your body will thank you for feeding it quality food. The payoff can be better skin, a boosted mood, and a robust immune system.

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Charity

smile35/Adobe glass jar with dollars

You don’t have to make millions to support your favorite causes. Giving to others triggers your brain’s feel-good chemicals, increasing your sense of peace.

Give back to your community and support your favorite causes guilt-free.

Gym membership

Alexis Scholtz/peopleimages.com/Adobe personal trainer and happy client talking

Exercise isn’t just about your physical health. Regular exercise can boost your mood and energy levels.

A gym membership can help encourage you to move your body regularly. Taking care of your physical and mental health is always a wise investment.

Well-made shoes

Liudmyla/Adobe classic mens shoes

Spending money on good shoes is a step in the right direction. Well-made shoes offer lasting comfort and protection from injury and the elements.

A good pair of shoes will last you years, especially if you find a cobbler who can help with replacing soles or heels.

Insurance

Drazen/Adobe Insurance agent and senior couple analyzing terms of a contract in their meeting in the office of insurance company.

Life, health, auto, homeowners, and renters' insurance protects you and your assets. Without insurance, you are playing a game of chance.

Even if you never make a claim on your insurance, you can sleep well at night knowing you're covered.

Education

chika_milan/Adobe senior student is following lecture

Education includes traditional colleges and universities, of course. But it also encompasses books, workshops, and spending time with mentors, coaches and trainers.

Bettering yourself can increase access to jobs and opportunities. Anything that contributes to your personal growth and well-being is an investment in yourself of which you should be proud, even if you have to pay for it.

Outsourcing tasks

Atlas/Adobe iron and shirt on ironing board

Spending extra money for laundry service or grocery delivery might make you feel a bit guilty paying for something you could do yourself. However, outsourcing these mundane tasks can free up your precious time so you can spend it on more important pursuits.

While it’s great to try to save on everyday essentials in any way you can, it’s also important to put a value on your time.

Bottom line

Jeff Bergen/peopleimages.com/Adobe affectionate young couple

Trying to be frugal so you can get ahead financially doesn’t mean you should never spend money. Even penny pinchers recognize that there are times and places to fork over some cash.

Whether you are focusing on health, wellness, or overall comfort, don’t be ashamed about taking care of yourself.

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