Hello A month ago, I moved to a country where online shopping is allowed. I initially moved out for studies so I’m also getting a taste of freedom for the first time. My parents send me a monthly allowance. For the past week I’ve been buying toys. Especially childhood toys, ones that I couldn’t get as a kid. The issue is that I can’t seem to stop and I feel bad. My parents worked really hard for this money and I’m blowing it away. But I’m also fulfilling my childhood dreams. I already wasted about 45€ on toys alone and I feel horrible about myself. Any tips?
1.) stop buying things if you can’t afford them.
2.) you can always resell toys to get some money back.
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Money is for enjoying sometimes. Don’t be too hard on yourself, but don’t overdo it. As a parent, I want my kids happy, and if spending a little does that, it’s fine—just know when to stop.
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Could you limit yourself to one toy a month? Then pay yourself the cost of the other toys you would have bought.
I’m not sure I understand. Are you suggesting that since I got 6 toys, I should skip buying toys for 6 months, then get one per month after that? If so, that makes sense, and I’ll probably do that.
I meant limit yourself to one toy a month and save what you’d spend on the others to build savings.
Oh I see. I think I’ll do that. It should be easy now that I got most of the toys I wanted as a child. Thank you
Yes, just limit how many you buy per month to avoid overspending! It’s hard to shake the guilt of spending on “wants” when you’re used to only affording “needs.” If your parents don’t mind and your necessities are covered with some savings, go ahead and enjoy the toy. Many adults buy what they couldn’t have as kids—it’s a way of healing and comforting your inner child.
First off, freedom comes with responsibility, and this is your first taste. You didn’t waste it on harmful things—you fulfilled a childhood dream. You realize your mistake, showing self-awareness. You’ll be fine!