Budgeting your money will help you find your way to financial freedom and along the journey finding space in your budget for things that make life easier will help you stick to your budget. Â You need to know where your money is going each month, but it’s just as important to think about the things that add value to your life. The items on this list are luxuries and only in the budget after the necessities are taken care of which includes savings as well as rent, bills, etc. I think it’s important to create room in your budget for enjoyment so that you can stick with a lifestyle of living within a budget. So here are my 5 things worth spending my money on.
1. Babysitter
We don’t have the luxury of a babysitter every week or even each month. Since our 3rd baby was born in May, my husband and I haven’t gotten out of the house on a date night. This has taught me the need to take care of our marriage. We really need to connect and make a point to save for a babysitter. Even if it means we go on a date to the library or a book store and fast food. The point is that making time for each other and connecting is important. It’s worth making space in your budget for the health of your marriage and family.
2. Mammograms
My mom was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 35.  She battled for 12 years before passing away after the cancer had metastasized throughout her body. We later found out that our family has the BRCA2 cancer gene. My great aunts and aunts have all had breast cancer or ovarian cancer. I believe it is a high priority for me to take care of myself through screenings. Although my health insurance covers part of the screenings, I still have to budget for the portion I have to pay.
3. Fitness Membership
I fell in love with weight lifting and working out the summer of 2015. My kids and I made a trek every day to the gym for about an hour workout and then to play in the pool. Working out is such a refresher for me during the day. I found that I am a better mom, more focused, and have more energy through out the day when I get a workout in. Kids can go to the childcare for a maximum of 2 hours a day. That’s 2 hours of childcare every day for ALL the kids plus access to the gym, pool, and special discounts for sports. We decided to join the Y because it was the best deal:
- Month to Month with No Contract
- No Joining Fee
- Childcare available
4. Smartphone
My smartphone is worth spending money on for several reasons:
- we don’t have a home phone
- I use my phone for working online
- coupons
- shopping apps like Target Cartwheel, Walmart Savings Catcher, Ibotta, Checkout 51
- Swagbucks
5. Highlights
I don’t spend much money on beauty products, makeup, and clothes. The one thing I like to keep up with is getting highlights for my hair. It’s like going on a mini-vacation! When I get my hair done, I feel fresh and renewed. I usually only get highlights twice a year. It’s definitely a luxury that I’m willing to save for and splurge on
