Last Updated on Feb 17, 2020 by James W
While it is important to build an emergency savings fund and invest a proportion of your income into your retirement, you also should occasionally treat yourself to a little bit of what you like.
While you should avoid splashing the cash, spending a little money on yourself every once in a while can make those long work days feel worth it. If you have some money to spare in the bank, here are four ways to make the most of your money.
- Invest in Your Skillset
If you have added a fixed sum into your emergency nest egg, deposited cash into your retirement fund, and have money left over from your paycheck, you could always use the funds to invest in your skillset.
For example, there are many online training programs available to grow your expertise, as you could embark on a graphic design, web development, or photography course. You could even attend a local pottery or cooking class to develop a much-loved hobby, which can help you to relax and unwind during your leisure time.
- Go on a Vacation
Every hardworking professional will need a break from time to time. It might be beneficial to use the extra money to go on a vacation, either alone or with your loved ones.
For example, you could book a week-long or weekend break to unplug from your career and relax your mind and body. It could help you to physically and mentally recover from your working life so that you can return to your job filled with passion and motivation.
- Have Some Fun
All work and no play can lead to a dull lifestyle. It might, therefore, be wise to treat yourself when an opportunity arises. For example, gather your friends together for a well-deserved dinner at a local restaurant, purchase a brand-new wardrobe to lift your self-confidence, or you could attempt to maximize your cash flow by placing a bet on the Powerball lottery. Use the money to have some fun and reward yourself for all your hard work and effort to-date.
- Donate the Money to Charity
If you don’t have your heart set on an activity or item and want to give something back to the community, you could always donate your leftover income to charity. For example, a few dollars or more could help a local animal rescue center, library, or a homeless shelter.
A local non-profit organization or charity will welcome both small or large donations, which can help them to survive. Plus, you will feel a great sense of satisfaction that your excess money will positively improve the lives of one or more people or animals in your local community.
So, while you shouldn’t frivolously spend your hard-earned income on activities or items you don’t want or need, there is nothing wrong with treating yourself every once in a while when you have the money to spare. It can be a great way to lift your spirits and reward yourself for your hard work ethic.
