Buzz
When striving for a big financial goal, like eliminating debt or saving a significant amount, common advice is to divide that large target into smaller milestones. Celebrate each smaller win with a small reward to stay motivated as you move toward the next goal.
However, rewarding yourself for good financial behavior can be tricky. If you’re focused on saving money, doesn’t spending on a treat slow your progress? You might even feel guilty for celebrating at all, fearing that every dollar needs to be saved.
You don’t have to splurge to celebrate financial wins. A recent Reddit discussion on r/Frugal explored ways people reward themselves without spending on material things. Although the chat wasn’t specifically about financial goals, it offered great ideas on celebrating your money milestones without breaking the bank.
A budget-friendly excursion
“Visit a place you’ve never explored, like a park or a notable city landmark,” suggested fcknhippies. Chances are, that monument, historical site, or park won’t even charge you an entrance fee.
A simple meal
It might sound a bit odd, but I always keep a “special” frozen pizza from Trader Joe’s on hand to reward myself for surviving the week,” said InternalCranberry. “That way, when I hit all my goals for the week, I can treat myself, and if the week is tough, I can still celebrate making it through. I usually pair it with my favorite stout and blast some cheesy 80s songs to make it feel like I’m at a local dive bar.”
I’m always up for having a pizza ready when I need it.
A damn good latte
“Spending an hour in a coffee shop with a great library book and a latte,” shared mrs_aitch. Sounds like bliss, honestly.
Absolutely nothing at all
“I treat myself to a day of doing nothing,” said RitaAlbertson. “I stay in my pajamas all day, watching movies or reading books (all from my local library), and I refuse to feel guilty about skipping chores like cleaning, laundry, or cooking a real meal instead of just snacking.”
A simple upgrade
108beads suggested upgrading an experience you were already planning to pay for. Making burgers for dinner? Switch it up and treat yourself to steak. Going to the car wash? Opt for the deluxe package.
Sure, it costs a bit more, but likely just a few extra dollars.
A soothing soak
“I love having an at-home spa night with a luxurious face mask, a bath, bath bombs, bubbles, and all the works,” said PradaPharoah. “It’s the perfect night; I turn my phone off and focus on self-care and enjoying my own company, instead of spending on things. I do buy masks occasionally, but that’s about it.”
“I reward myself with a bubble bath and a sweet treat I’ve been stashing in the freezer,” shared nibbler5ad4. “It’s inexpensive and great for my mental well-being!”
A beloved album
“For those who have a deep love for certain music, a perfect evening is an uninterrupted album or two paired with a glass of exquisite wine,” shared sinspots. Extra points if you’ve already got that special bottle of wine waiting for the perfect moment.
I like to reserve movie theater gift cards for special occasions that I create myself, to enjoy the big-screen experience without the hefty price tag. What free or almost-free rewards would you add to this list?
