Satisfying those Cravings

Let’s be real honest now, shall we?

We all have cravings, and they may or may not be pregnancy-related.  I am going to be completely transparent and share mine.

I crave coffee.  Quality coffee. There.  I said it.

I’m talking lattes, cappucinos, and my all-time favorite: Starbucks Caramel Macchiatos.

Oh…what the hey…while I’m at it, I might as well share my other cravings:

massages
pedicures
going to the movies
chocolate
a good book
going out to eat
and the list goes on…

The problem is that it is very easy to feel guilty about indulging in any of these things when money is tight.  And the reality is that money spent on wants is less money set aside for needs.

I’d like to share a few tips on how to make room for some of the more frivolous things in life.

• Use birthdays to ask for items or experiences that you might feel guilty using your own money to buy.  I currently have a gift certificate for a massage waiting patiently for me to use it.  It was a gift on my last birthday.  I also received an assortment of gift cards for my favorite coffee spots for Christmas.  It’s OK to get pampered by others every now and then!

• Sign up for Swagbucks or Mypoints. By doing so, you can earn gift cards for all your craving needs.  Why not?

• Consider giving yourself an allowance. My husband and I each receive a monthly ‘allowance’.  (I know…and you thought that was only for your teenager.)  It’s a small amount, but it’s ours to use on whatever we see fit.  And considering the fact that each of us likes to spend money in different ways, (I like to splurge on the little things; he likes to save for the big things) this has not only been a financial help, but our marriage has benefited as well.

How do you make room to enjoy your cravings every now and then?