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One of the biggest money mistakes you could make is that as you make more money, you begin to spend more money. As someone who’s super cheap frugal, I’m always on the prowl for ways to save money—but at the same time, I occasionally treat myself along the way.
A strategy I’ve used recently with a lot of success, is looking at where I spend the most time, and buying things that support those activities.
For example, in an average week I spend quite a bit of time:
- Working out of my home office;
- Traveling;
- Sleeping.
I’ve made sure that most of the new items I’ve bought recently support these three activities.
- Because I spend so much time writing and conducting research out of my home office, I’ve invested in a new mechanical keyboard, a massive computer monitor to see several things on screen at once, and a sit/stand desk to mix up how I work. A couple years back, I invested in a nice new laptop.
- Because I’m traveling more for work, I recently bought a pair of Bose QC35 headphones which improve my focus on planes and trains, and also bought a Kindle Paperwhite, so I no longer need to cram several books into my carry-on. The Kindle also helps me fill the small time gaps in my schedule—like when I’m in a taxi or waiting in line at the airport.
- Because I spend a third of my day (and life) sleeping, I ponied up to buy fancy new pillows, and a nice sleeping mask to use when I travel.
Even if, like me, you’re not one to splurge, it’s worth treating yourself every once in a while by spending money on stuff that supports how you already spend your time.
