Invest In You

I've recently read an article that gives tips on what to do with a tax refund (not that employees have efficient tax refunds in the Philippines). I just might use Mary Hunt's suggestions when I get my mid-year bonus, 13th-month pay or whatever incentives I get from my good "deeds". Below are her suggestions:

1. Treat it like a paycheck.
2. Put it to your contingency or freedom account.
3. Fund your retirement.
4. Reduce your credit card debt.
5. Replace a failing furniture/appliance.
6. Get car maintenance.
7. Buy necessary sale items in bulk.
8. Invest in You

Invest in You? She even added:

What do you need: a trip to the dentist; a couple of hours with a good therapist; a day at the spa? If that renews your joy, it might be the best money you've ever spent.

I'm quite sure I'm not alone in my surprise. For breadwinners, spending money on some of these luxuries for ourselves were unnecessary and impractical. There are times we thought we need it, but we put it off because we thought we can spend the money on something more important. Most likely, the moment we get around doing it is when there's an absolute need for it or when we're at an emotional low that we tend to spend impulsively.

But you know what? It just dawned on me. It's okay to treat yourself. You need to take care of yourself. Rewarding yourself for all your hard work makes you more efficient and creative. Feeling good about yourself puts you in a better position to take on challenges.

Hmmm! I think I should go out and shop and get myself a cellophane. As Samantha Jones of Sex in the City put it, "Let's go spend some of my hard-earned, Hollywood money." You deserve it.