Introduction
In my 20s, I often found myself chasing purchases that I thought would bring happiness, only to feel disappointed soon after. Whether it was a shiny gadget I barely used or impulsively booked tickets to events I wasn’t that interested in, my spending didn’t align with what truly mattered to me.
It wasn’t until I reflected on my habits that I realised the power of intentional spending. The things that genuinely brought me joy—like travel, hobbies, and tools that made life easier—were investments in my happiness. Here’s my journey to mindful spending and practical tips to help you align your purchases with your values.
1. Travel: Investing in Experiences That Stay with You
During my first year of marriage, my wife and I saved diligently for a three-month backpacking trip through Southeast Asia. It wasn’t just a holiday—it was an investment in memories and growth. From the chaotic streets of Bangkok to the tranquil beaches of Bali, every moment felt like a lesson in appreciating the present.
One vivid memory is wandering through Hanoi’s Old Quarter. We stumbled upon a street vendor making banh mi sandwiches and sat by Hoan Kiem Lake, soaking in the sights and sounds of the city. It wasn’t an extravagant experience, but it was one of the most grounding moments of the trip—a reminder that joy often comes from simplicity.
Why It Was Worth It
Travel taught me that the best purchases aren’t things—they’re experiences. The memories we created continue to bring joy long after the trip ended.
What You Can Do
Prioritise saving for experiences that align with your values. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a dream vacation, intentional planning ensures those experiences become priceless memories.
2. A Home Coffee Setup: Simple Rituals That Matter
For years, my daily coffee came from takeaway shops, costing me hundreds of dollars each month. When I finally invested in a home coffee machine, it felt like a luxury—but it quickly became one of the most worthwhile purchases I’ve made.
Every morning, I now start the day by grinding beans, steaming milk, and enjoying the ritual of making coffee. It’s more than a drink—it’s a moment of calm before the day begins. The bonus? It’s saved us money while creating a new way to connect with friends who come over for coffee tastings.
Why It Was Worth It
The initial cost was offset within months, and the routine added mindfulness to my mornings.
What You Can Do
Consider investing in tools that enhance daily routines. Focus on purchases that bring long-term value and joy.
3. Affordable Hobbies: Finding Joy in the Simple Things
One of the best investments I ever made was in a used Nintendo DS during a stressful period at work. It came with Chrono Trigger, a classic game that transported me to another world. Playing it felt nostalgic and comforting, especially on tough days.
Books have also been a constant source of joy. I remember losing myself in The Hobbit on a rainy weekend. It reminded me that you don’t need the latest gadgets to find happiness—sometimes, the simplest pleasures are the most meaningful.
Why They Were Worth It
These hobbies provided relaxation and inspiration without straining my budget. They reminded me that joy often comes from revisiting the familiar.
What You Can Do
Explore hobbies that resonate with you. Start with affordable options—library books, second-hand consoles, or free outdoor activities can bring immense joy without the price tag.
4. Tools for Work and Creativity: Streamlining Daily Life
As someone who enjoys creating and working on personal projects alongside a professional career in the city, having reliable tools has been essential. My MacBook Air has been my go-to for everything from editing videos in Premiere Pro to coding in Visual Studio Code. Its lightweight design allows me to bring it wherever inspiration strikes—whether I’m at a library, a café, or commuting to work.
That daily train commute, which lasts over an hour, became my creative haven. With noise-cancelling headphones, I could draft blog posts, edit photos, or sketch out project ideas before stepping into my 9-to-5 job. At home, pairing my MacBook with a second monitor has made it easier to juggle tasks like refining designs, managing ideas on Trello, or exploring new tools.
Why It Was Worth It
Good tools remove barriers to creativity and make working on personal projects enjoyable. The portability and reliability of my setup have helped me stay productive and efficient, no matter where I am.
What You Can Do
Invest in tools that support your passions and goals. They don’t need to be the most expensive—prioritise functionality and how they enhance your workflow to make creating more seamless and satisfying.
5. Learning Resources: Lifelong Value
Learning has been one of my most fulfilling investments. Online courses from platforms like Udemy helped me build technical skills, like web development and cloud computing. These skills allowed me to create personal projects, including hosting my own website.
Language classes have also brought immense value. During my travels in Japan, knowing basic Japanese phrases helped me connect with locals in a way that felt authentic. Audiobooks have been another tool for growth—titles like Atomic Habits introduced me to ideas that reshaped how I approach challenges.
Why They Were Worth It
The knowledge I’ve gained from learning resources continues to shape my personal and professional growth.
What You Can Do
Start with free or affordable resources like library books, online courses, or community classes. Learning doesn’t have to be expensive to be valuable.
Conclusion
Spending with intention isn’t about strict budgets or cutting out fun—it’s about aligning your purchases with your values. Whether it’s meaningful travel, tools for growth, or hobbies that bring joy, intentional spending transforms expenses into investments in your well-being and happiness.
Next time you consider buying something, ask yourself: Does this align with what truly matters to me? With thoughtful decisions, you can create a life filled with meaningful moments and lasting happiness.