After years of strict budgeting and smart financial moves, one Reddit user found himself freezing at the thought of spending just $20 on a gadget. “I couldn’t stop myself from chasing the next mundane goal,” they wrote. “It pains me to spend $20 to buy myself a new keychain tool.”
Extreme frugality can turn into guilt
After they asked if they were “too obsessed with saving money,” the post quickly resonated with others who admitted to feeling similar. Many people say they have accumulated substantial savings, maxed out retirement accounts and have large emergency funds, but even small personal purchases can trigger anxiety.
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“You’ve basically programmed yourself to get dopamine from watching numbers go up instead of buying stuff,” one person commented. “Honestly, it’s not the worst problem to have, but when you’re stressed about a $20 purchase, it can get weird.”
Others described how saving became a status quo, and anything that undermined that mentality felt like a waste. “I used to just think of my money as a bunch of money I didn’t want to spend,” one commenter admitted. Another said they struggled for hours over the purchase of a small kitchen despite having a seven-figure net worth.
For many, this fear stems not from financial necessity but from mindset. One commenter said they are very focused on saving and check their investment accounts multiple times a day, often every 20 to 30 minutes.
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When frugality becomes harmful
One of the biggest takeaways from this post is how much people need to find a healthy middle ground. Several people shared stories of friends or family members who put off enjoying something but later regretted it. “A few weeks ago a colleague of over 16 years passed away suddenly,” one wrote. If they were prudent and didn’t spend a penny, I’d say it’s almost a wasted life. “
Others reflected on how a health scare or loss changed their perspective on money. “I was diagnosed with cancer ten years ago,” one person shared. “This will prioritize living in the moment.”
Creating a “fun budget” has helped many people break the cycle
Many Reddit users recommend building a specific “fun money” line into your budget. Whether it’s $50 or $200 a month, knowing the money is for guilt-free enjoyment can help change their mindset. “It’s a free purchase because the money is gone,” one person said of their psychological ploy.
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Some people even roll over unused fun money each month to create a guilt-free spending pool that can be used for something big, or just as a reminder that it’s okay to enjoy life.
A financial planner can help you rebalance your relationship with money
When your saving habits start to affect your peace of mind, a little guidance can go a long way. Domain Money connects you with certified financial planners who specialize in helping high-income families plan with purpose, not just build spreadsheets.
For those who make $100,000 a year or more and have a savings plan in place, the next step may be to learn how to spend with confidence. As one commenter said, “Build the life you want and then save for it.”
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When saving becomes an obsession, small purchases feel like personal failures. “It’s such a pain to spend $20 on myself” originally appeared on Benzinga.com
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