The Smart Splurge: Why Sometimes the Best Money Move Is Spending

When we talk about money, the conversation almost always starts with what to cut. Cancel unused subscriptions. Cook at home. Shop the sale rack. Those are all great habits, but I think there’s an equally important part of a healthy financial life that we don’t talk about enough.

Spending. On purpose.

For me, that “smart splurge” is my trainer. Not the cheapest part of my budget, but worth every dollar. I feel stronger, I sleep better, and I make better decisions in every part of my life. The mental clarity alone is a return on investment that goes way beyond what shows up in my bank account.

What Makes a Splurge Smart

A smart splurge is different from an impulse buy. It’s not about swiping your card because you had a bad day or because there was a flash sale. It’s intentional. You plan for it. You save for it. You choose it because it improves your life long after the receipt is crumpled.

It might be therapy sessions that keep your mental health in check. A high-quality mattress that helps you wake up rested. Cooking classes that make weeknight dinners more fun. Or maybe it’s hiring a cleaner so you can actually enjoy your Saturdays.

Why it Matters for Financial Wellness

Here’s the thing: cutting every joy out of your budget is a recipe for burnout. You can only run on discipline alone for so long before you hit a wall and spend in ways that don’t even make you happy.

The smart splurge gives you permission to spend in a way that feels good and aligns with your values. By making it intentional, you also make it sustainable. You can enjoy what you love without derailing your bigger financial goals.

The smart splurge isn’t about giving up progress, it’s about making your financial life something you actually want to live with.

How to Find Your Smart Splurge

• Ask what actually matters to you. Forget what other people think is worth the money. This is about what makes your life better.
• Check if it fits your budget. A smart splurge does not mean going into debt.
• Plan for it. Put it in your budget so you enjoy it without guilt.
• Pay attention to the ROI. Notice how it makes you feel over time. If it stops feeling worth it, re-evaluate.

This Week’s Challenge

Pick one thing that feels like a smart splurge for you. Add it to your budget and commit to enjoying it, guilt-free. Your financial wellness is not just about what you save. It’s also about how you spend.

And don’t forget to sign up for the SIMMER waitlist — especially if you want early access!