Buying Happiness...and Avocado Toast

 


“Money doesn’t buy happiness.”


It’s an oft-repeated quote that I think we’ve heard so many times over, and I personally find it rather annoying considering our society (I’m sure this quote is so great to hear, especially when we've all been affected by the strikes, myself included).


I’m of the mindset that money does help bring happiness, or at the very least a sense of stability. Even in talking with my therapist, she pointed out how there is value in certain purchases, avocado toast be damned.


The way I approach money is by buying things/experiences that make me happy or contribute to my quality of life. This doesn’t mean going nuts buying everything in the candy store but giving yourself the allowance to make those purchases every so often.


A few examples:

  • I pay about $20 a month for the gym (LA Fitness, sorry Equinox). I wouldn’t call myself a gym rat or John Cena, but it’s something that helps with my overall health and stress. 
  • I bought a new MacBook a few months ago, and that was something I saved for. Does it make me happy? Yes, especially as it’s something I use on a daily (hourly basis?). 
  • Any opportunity for KBBQ is a yes. I don’t eat a ton of red meat, but when I do, it’s for this. 
  • Right now I’m trying to see if I can make the math work for a spur-the-moment trip to France. I have credit card points saved up, although my stumbling block will likely be lodging. I’m too old to stay in a hostel with 16 other people (did that once, not by choice, and it was not a fun experience). 


I write this post to underscore that you shouldn’t feel judgment for your expenses, whether it’s as simple as avocado toast or seats to Taylor Swift (not a Swiftie, but she certainly does give a good return on investment, performance-wise). We each have our priorities after our basic needs, and you shouldn’t be faulted for those.


Also, side note: The Australian billionaire who said to stop buying avocado toast said last week he wanted more workers on unemployment "to reduce arrogance in the employment market". 


Now, go buy your avocado toast before I get hungry.


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