There have been times in my single parent life when it was all I could do to make sure the basics were covered—food, shelter, education, healthcare, etc. I have had my share of typical life setbacks and there is a temptation to let these experiences make me very thrifty and very cautious with my finances. This is not necessarily a bad thing, but like all things in life, a person can take it too far…
Little luxuries can go a long way when it comes to keeping one’s spirit up and reminding yourself that you are not just here to work and sacrifice. It does not have to be a Caribbean cruise to give you a boost, even a bouquet of fresh flowers, new towels for the bathroom or a new lipstick or lunch out can have a big impact. If you normally scrimp and save, or if it has been a while since you bought something new for the house or for yourself, splurging on a little treat now and again can be just what you need to get re-inspired.
I find the little treats really do just as much for me as one would think more expensive and grand luxuries would. The other day I bought four new matching coffee mugs in a deep brick red. The set cost me $3.99 and I have experienced such pleasure sipping my morning decaf from these new mugs. Even though I had “perfectly good ones” it felt good to clean away a couple chipped cups and ones that I just never reach for and to put the attractive new ones at the front of the cupboard.
Once you give yourself permission to splurge on a little treat now and again (and I think it should be more often than not) you may also find that it does not take much to give your life a little boost and allow you to feel worthwhile and “treated.”
See Also: Make Yourself a Priority