I grew up in a blue collar family. We didn’t have much money, but it wasn’t bad. My father always complained about not having enough. My first relationship was with someone who couldn’t handle money and we got into big trouble which I fear still influences me psychologically. So these things shaped me. I am currently in a position where I managed to save a little over 10.000 euro in 4 years. I am in “need” of something that will cost me 3000. So I can afford it right now. But it feels wrong and drives me into a panic. I could wait another year when I would have saved another 2500 probably. But it also feels it might diminish my ability to deal with any financial problems that might arise in the mean time. Esp. since there is a (slim) chance I will move into another house which could cost me well beyond 10.000. I am in a relationship where my partner has saved 3000 and we have a joint account with almost 4000 in excess as well. So cognitively I know I am probably financially safe rn, but spending 3000 on -what I consider luxury (a new PC)- feels wrong.

I’m not looking for a “do/don’t do it” answer. But I am looking for perspectives. What would you do in my situation?

Edit: I didn’t think I would get that much replies, let alone so many helpful and considered ones. THANK YOU, everybody! For those who question my need for a 3000 computer. I did put it in quotes; but yeah, it could be a cheaper one, which I always went with in the past (I also always overestimate my budget when spending so it would in all likelihood be more in the 2000 range). I just figured since I can afford one now, why not get one that will last me 10+ years. And no, it isn’t a Apple 😱 I do some gaming but also 3D modeling as a hobby. Anyway, I decided to wait another year. Again, my thanks for all your replies 🥰

  • jbrains@sh.itjust.works
    2·
    1 year ago

    What feels wrong about it?

    If you’re certainly going to use it and appreciate it and enjoy it, then you might manage to justify the purchase. Answer yourself honestly: will you?

    Now imagine what would cause you to regret that purchase. How likely are those situations to happen?

    I grew up in a home where money was tight and we had to give up many necessities because of money. It was also the typical household where, because they felt poor, my parents indulged in many little things in order to treat themselves, which made it even harder to have money for necessities when we needed them. As a result, I pledged to treat money differently: I was not going to go without something I (now we) need, truly need, because of money. This alone helped me clarify many buying decisions early in my adult life, when I couldn’t afford to spend as much as I can now.

    Good luck.