As someone who prides herself on being frugal, every time I splurge and spend a hefty amount, it’s supposed to be a memorable experience. Unfortunately, some of these extravagant choices have turned into significant regrets. Here are eight splurges that I wish I could undo:
1. My 40th Birthday Feast
Approx. cost: $800 (originally $1,400)
Let’s kick things off with my biggest blunder. I decided to treat myself to a meal at a Michelin three-star restaurant in New York to celebrate my 40th birthday. Many people spend big bucks on extravagant trips or parties, so why not a lavish dinner, right? Well, this meal turned out to be the most disappointing one I’ve ever experienced. The food was lackluster, and when you spend a fortune, the expectation of enjoyment skyrockets. However, I did learn the value of polite complaining, and I managed to get $600 knocked off the bill!
2. A Pair of High-End Stilettos
Approx. cost: Over $300
I’ve conveniently forgotten the exact price of these sky-high fashion pumps I bought years ago. The pain of wearing those shoes for a single night still stings. Now, I still wear uncomfortable heels but at a more reasonable price. It seems like every woman has her own tale of shoe regret; it’s as if our feet are drawn to bad decisions like moths to a flame.
3. An Elegant Pen and Pencil Set
Approx. cost: $215
I once thought that being an adult meant having classy writing tools for all those important documents. So, I splurged on a beautiful Cross set to show my commitment to adulthood. The pen went missing within a week, and I realized I don’t even like writing with a pencil. Now, I happily collect hotel pens instead!
4. Hot Stone Massage
Approx. cost: $155
As a self-proclaimed spa enthusiast, I never thought I’d regret spending money on pampering myself. But after trying a hot stone massage, I was left feeling like a fool lying on a table with cold rocks on my back. A tip: ask your masseuse to warm their hands before getting started. Instant savings!
5. Gel Manicures and Pedicures
Approx. cost: $65 plus tip
This is another beauty treatment I regret. Gel mani-pedis are three times pricier than regular ones, and for what? My one attempt at a gel pedi resulted in a chunk of polish lifting off within a week. Talk about a letdown!
6. Any Wine Over $50
Approx. cost: More than $50
Feel free to gift me a $100 or $200 bottle, and I’ll enjoy it without hesitation. But if I’m buying it for myself, I’ll stick to bottles around $30. Scientific studies have shown that most people can’t tell the difference in taste, so why waste the money?
7. Three Unused Wedding Dresses
Approx. cost: $1,600
When I mentioned my wedding dresses to my husband, he couldn’t help but chuckle. After five ex-boyfriends and three gowns, I ended up with a collection I never wore. I love the dress I chose for my wedding, but my family never lets me forget my overindulgence.
8. My Condo
Approx. cost: $149,999
In 2007, I bought a condo as a single woman thinking it was a smart financial move. I bought at the peak of the market and ended up miserable, moving 1,000 miles away a year later. Renting it out to questionable tenants was a disaster, but it taught me valuable lessons about money and myself.
Splurges often turn into learning experiences, and those lessons are priceless.
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