We live in a world where every single purchase feels like a moral dilemma. Between money guilt, toxic productivity, and hustle culture, it’s easy to feel bad for treating yourself even when you really need it.
But here’s the truth: you’re allowed to spend money on yourself without justifying it to anyone. Especially if it contributes to your peace, healing, growth, and happiness.
I definitely consider myself a pretty frugal person. And I would like to think I’m pretty good with my money. I do all the right things. I invest, I budget, I have a high-interest savings account (and I never take money out of that savings account), and I’m cautious about my spending and lifestyle creep. But I think I got a bit obsessive over the numbers, and can really forget to take care of my relationship with money.
Look I’m going to save you the whole growing up poor spiel, but basically I am pretty money-focused, and I think guilt-free spending is something a lot of us need to improve in, myself included.
Because at the end of the day, money is just a tool we use to better our lives. And we shouldn’t allow it to make us so anxious, especially if you are good with your money. Because that does kind of defeat the whole purpose of it “improving our lives”.
This post will take you through 10 things you should never feel bad about buying. Because guilt-free spending doesn’t have to be reckless. Sometimes, it’s just about taking care of ourselves, our money mindset, and our relationship with money.
What is guilt-free spending?
Guilt-free spending is when you intentionally spend money on things that bring you joy, peace, or growth without feeling bad about it. It’s about letting go of shame around your purchases, especially when they support your mental health, self-care, or well-being.
How do I know if a purchase is “guilt-free” or just impulsive?
A guilt-free purchase is usually intentional and aligned with your values or healing. Impulse spending often feels rushed or regretful afterwards, while guilt-free spending feels grounding, affirming, or genuinely joyful, even if it’s small.
Is it okay to spend money on myself if I have debt or financial goals?
Yes. You can be responsible with money and still allow yourself small comforts. Guilt-free spending doesn’t mean going overboard, it means making space in your budget for things that support your wellbeing. A healthy financial plan should still leave room for you.
Why do I feel guilty when I spend money on myself?
This guilt often comes from how we were raised, societal expectations, or toxic beliefs about self-worth. If you grew up in a scarcity mindset or were made to feel “selfish” for having needs, spending can trigger shame. It’s something many of us are still unlearning.
Guilt-Free Spending: 10 Things You Should Never Feel Bad About Buying
1. Experiences That Bring You Joy
I bought the most expensive VIP Taylor Swift tickets for the Eras Tour, $1,250 per person. Not to mention having to travel to Sydney and the amount of merch I bought.
But you know what, I just love Taylor Swift. She doesn’t come to Australia often, and The Eras Tour was a pretty big deal. And that’s why I’m good with money, so that I can enjoy the things that I really value.
Obviously going to every concert or festival would be unreasonable if you didn’t have the money for it. But if its what you value, you shouldn’t feel guilty for wanting to go see your favourite singer whenever you can.
Honestly, major experiences like travel or concerts are some of the best ways you can spend your money. That’s what you’re going to remember for the rest of your life.
2. Gym Memberships or Workout Classes
If going to the gym helps regulate your wellbeing or gives you a sense of routine, it’s not a luxury, it’s maintenance. Whether it’s pilates, boxing, or yoga, your physical and emotional well-being are always worth the investment.
Obviously it’s a bit of a stereotype how much gyms love those members that sign up and never show up, so I that almost scared me off a bit. I know that there are free options to improve your fitness like getting your steps up or playing sport with your friends. But for me actually going to the gym and weightlifting is something I was actually able to fall in love with.
So if you are interested in things like a gym membership or workout class, it’s definitely not something you should feel guilty about. Your health and wellness are so important, and this is a lifelong investment.
3. Health and Wellness Support
Right now, accessing medical or health services is so expensive. And honestly, a lot of people, including myself put off these services due to the cost. But health services such as dental, mental health, or general services are all important to take care of your health and wellness. And that matters so much, because these really are essential services that you need.
It’s frustrating that governments don’t do enough to keep these services accessible, but you can’t just put it off. Keeping up with regular appointments is important to make sure you don’t need emergency care.
4. Quality Time with People Who Recharge You
Grabbing coffee with your best friend, taking your sibling out for lunch, or booking a trip to see someone who feels like home, these are moments that fill your cup. Connection matters. Don’t guilt yourself out of meaningful experiences just because they cost something.
5. A Safe and Calming Home Environment
From plants to bedding to noise-canceling headphones, your environment impacts your sense of calm and stability. Creating a space that feels safe is not shallow, it’s survival. You shouldn’t feel guilty for spending money on creating a safe and stable home environment.
6. Investing in Yourself
Financial investments in things like property or stocks are obviously very important. But investing in yourself through things like education, business, or upskilling, is debatably more important. These personal investments have potential to provide you with an even better financial return as well.
7. A Fancy Waterbottle
Okay I know this one is a bit more trivial, but the idea is applicable to a lot of things. A nice waterbottle is going to keep you hydrated. And while yes, you can get the same effect with something a lot cheaper, you’re going to find yourself really proud of you new purchase and actually want to use it.
Hydration is so important, and I don’t think many of us are drinking enough water. So if a cute new waterbottle is going to make you actually drink more water, it’s a great investment in my opinion. The same thing goes with a new workout set, nice skin care routine, or a new book you’ve been wanting to read. It’s all about encouraging you to adopt habits that will better your life.
8. Food That Nourishes You
Groceries are expensive, and honestly can one of the things that eat into your weekly budget the most. But you shouldn’t feel guilty for buying healthy, nourishing food. You’re not “splurging” by buying cuts of meat rather than getting them cheaper from the frozen section, you’re just taking care of your health and wellness.
9. Celebrating Your Wins
It’s important to celebrate wins and milestones big or small. It can be as simple as going out for dinner because you’ve wrapped up uni for the semester, or buying yourself some new clothes if you’ve lost weight.
This is a time to feel proud, not guilty or anxious about how much dinner is going to cost. Enjoy celebrating yourself, you deserve it.
10. A Fulfilling Hobby
Do you know how much people spend on their hobbies? Because I sure didn’t. I wanted to start pottery but I put it off for so long because I just found the price so intimidating. But people genuinely do spend a lot on their hobbies, whether it be club fees and equipment for a sport, or supplies and classes for a craft.
Money spent on things like a hobby brings us joy and a better wellbeing. Spending time by yourself with things that you actually value is a form of self-care, and is definitely not something you should be feeling guilty about.
Spending money doesn’t always have to come with guilt, especially when it’s helping you heal, grow, or simply feel more at ease in your life. Whether it’s therapy, skincare, or a Taylor Swift concert, these purchases aren’t just “wants” they’re valid and necessary forms of self-care.
You deserve to invest in things that support your mental health, comfort, and joy. The truth is, money is a tool and when you use it to create a life that feels safe, peaceful, and aligned with your values, that’s something to be proud of, not ashamed of.
Disclaimer: The information in this blog is for educational purposes only. I am not a financial advisor.
