One can always find a way to rationalize a purchase. Been there myself many times. Perhaps it’s a treat or a special occasion. Nothing wrong with that. The financial challenge is when it becomes something recurring and, upon looking back, you regret the expense because it has limited your ability to meet objectives that are more important. to you. If and when that happens, you’re making a critical first step to moving Beyond Paycheck to Paycheck, because you’ll have the motivation to change behavior.

This means different things (both rewards and sacrifices) for every individual. The joy of life.

Great post. We spend too much on groceries, and most of it results from trips to Fresh Market (our Whole Foods equivalent) after work while hungry and in need of reward after a stressful day. The bill is always horrendous, and we justify it by not eating out (much) and eating well.