Thirteen Financial Goals for 2013: Number 13 – Savor Every Moment!

Thirteen Financial Goals for 2013: Number 13 – Savor Every Moment!

This article is part of a series on 13 money resolutions for 2013. We’ve made it to the last resolution. Enjoy!

If you’ve put in the effort, it’s time to take it easy and remember that money is there to be enjoyed, not just saved. Here’s how you can make the most out of your money:

Enjoy Your Comfort

I used to be a broke student with a $5K scholarship that covered everything from tuition to daily expenses. Life was tight. Now, even though I have more money, I still try to be frugal but don’t skimp on comfort. When we moved into our new house, we splurged on good bed sheets because quality sleep is crucial. We also bought a blender and a deep freezer for making delicious meals. While these weren’t immediate necessities, having enough money allows you to enjoy finer things in life.

The same applies to clothes. I keep my wardrobe minimal, but I invest in classic, flattering items that I truly enjoy wearing. They last longer and have a lower cost per use compared to trendy pieces that go out of style quickly.

Though I don’t own a car, I share one with my boyfriend, and if he didn’t have one, I would buy one since we live in a remote area. Money has given me the freedom to enhance my life with little luxuries and conveniences without relying on credit.

Stop worrying about money all the time and have some fun. Sometimes, it’s worth it to spend a bit more for comfort and convenience. Take a taxi home instead of walking for hours when the bus isn’t running. Buy the laptop you really want instead of the cheapest option. Remember, money is meant to be enjoyed.

Enjoy Your Time

Having more money allows you to buy back time. You can choose to work fewer days to spend more time on personal projects or with your family. You can hire a babysitter for a romantic date night or get help with cleaning and other chores.

Typically, you either have time or money. If you’re unemployed or in college, you probably have more time but less money. Conversely, having a job and commitments often means more money but less free time. Your salary essentially compensates for the time you give up.

By making small financial adjustments—cutting waste, reducing bills, paying off debt—you can find a balance where you have both time and money. Once you’re not struggling financially, you can truly start to enjoy the freedom money provides.

Enjoy Experiences

You can also spend money on experiences to share with friends and family. Taking your kids to an amusement park or going on a ski trip creates unforgettable memories that aren’t haunted by lingering bills.

For many frugal people, this is a tough step. Spending $1,500 on a holiday or $200 on a dinner may seem excessive. While a potluck at home is great, sometimes you deserve a special treat.

Personally, I don’t enjoy all-inclusive holidays since I find them overpriced and get bored easily. But for many families, they offer relaxation and fun. If this is your dream holiday, go for it! Whatever your treat, consider splurging on it. My treat is travel. I love being able to fly back to Europe whenever I want. The ability to afford it makes it all the more enjoyable.

I’ve rarely regretted spending on experiences. Even if the food wasn’t great, the time spent out was fun. Drinks with friends and days out with family are priceless moments.

Enjoy Money

I like having money in the bank—not millions, but enough to sleep soundly knowing my bills are paid and there’s food on the table.

Savor that feeling. Even if you’re just starting to get out of debt, following these steps means you’re likely already doing better. Enjoy the newfound financial freedom and the opportunities it brings to live an amazing life.

What else do you enjoy about money?