5 Simple Ways To Invest in Yourself

Every once in a while, we need to treat ourselves. Maybe you just reached a goal and you want to reward yourself. Maybe you’ve had a rough day – or week – and you deserve a prize for making it through. Maybe you just want to spend your hard-earned money on something that makes you smile.

Rather than buying an impulse item that make us happy temporarily, we should think about how we can positively impact our lives long term. Look, I’m not going to go so far as to say that putting money into a retirement plan is more fun than a new pair of shoes. Let’s not let responsibility completely rob us of a good time.

But, as long as we’re spending money on ourselves, why not also make it something that will positively affect our lives for the long term? You can treat yourself while you also invest in yourself.

1. Invest in your mind

Have you ever learned a new hobby and become addicted? (I’m looking at you, crochet.) That’s because our brains love learning new things. Seriously, there’s an entire science behind it. So why not spend your time and money to gain a new ability? You’ll get a plethora of lasting brain function benefits, and you’ll add a new skill to your arsenal. Devote a month and learn to make amazing desserts to bring to parties. Become an expert in a crafting area and make everyone handmade gifts this holiday season. Adopting a new hobby can be a great way to unwind, and you’ll have a new skill that you’ll be able to use for years to come.

2. Invest in your health

Sure, you could drop some money on a new gadget that you’ll enjoy for a little while. Or, you could fund a new healthy activity that will benefit you for years to come. Finally take those yoga classes you’ve been talking about, rent a stand up paddle board, or get some hiking/camping equipment and get outside into the fresh air. Chances are you’re going to reap more immediate and long-reaching advantages from exercise than from a single item purchase. The endorphins alone beat the short-lived joy of any shopping experience.

3. Invest in personal care

When life gets crazy, we can let our personal care needs fall by the wayside. Even if we decide to spend money, it’s usually on something that can benefit our household or to fix something that needs repair. However, it’s nice every once in a while to really indulge, so why not make it beneficial? Have a spa day using natural household ingredients. Splurge on that skin/hair care upgrade, but do it using coupons so it’s not such a big leap from your drugstore brand. A month later when you’re still using your fabulous new face moisturizer, your skin and your wallet will thank you.

4. Invest in your experiences

Studies show that people who spend their money on experiences rather than things are ultimately more happy. Think about it, it’s more likely that you can recall three fun memories that make you happier than three purchases you’ve made in the last year. Rather than spending money on new things, consider taking a trip to a new place, visiting friends or family, getting tickets to a concert or festival. The memories from those experiences will probably bring you more lasting joy than will any item.

5. Invest in someone else

We’ve all heard that it’s better to give than receive. There’s actually scientific evidence to back this up. In a study, social psychologist, Liz Dunn and colleagues found that “spending more of one’s income on others predicted greater happiness” across varying cultures and income levels.

Have you ever exchanged gifts with someone and were more excited to give them theirs than to receive yours? Imagine multiplying that feeling by giving to even more people who are actually in need. Rather than getting yourself something you may not need, look into ways that you can give your time or resources to help someone else. The positive impact you can have on someone else’s life will be far more rewarding.

“Giving is better than receiving because giving starts the receiving process.” – Jim Rohn

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