We’ve been talking a bit more about money in our household recently. We’ve taken a series of much-needed trips, we put up a fence, we’ve experimented with doggy allergy medication, and I’ve gotten knee surgery. All things that matter to us – but that definitely have a price tag on them. As we’re easing toward the holiday season (holy crap), we’re being more conscious of spending.
BUT – I still have 4 non-negotiable self-care investments I continue to make. As I shared during a Social Media Charlotte Instagram takeover, I define self-care investments as payments for things that support my sanity and well-being. Here are my four:
(1) Local coffee
Cost: $55 per 5-lb bag of beans. Getting beans delivered (for free, by Enderly Coffee) throughout Covid has been a lifesaver. It’s my morning source of energy, the jumpstart for my day and something I genuinely look forward to grinding up for my pour over every morning.
(2) Doggy daycare every week or so
Cost: $22 per half day at The Barker Lounge. That means six hours of someone else wearing Murray out so he can stay calm(ish) in our house. Since the pups are my primary coworkers during my mostly remote work lifestyle right now, this is huge.
(3) Beautiful, nourishing meals at local spots
Cost: Less than $20 if you play it right. But that depends on your budget. Regardless, a huge part of satisfaction with food is the experience, the presentation and who you’re with. It’s also just refreshing to get out of the house and off your screens to enjoy a mindful meal.
(4) Signing up for fitness classes
Cost: $40 per month. I’ve been using ClassPass lately so I can experience some other fitness studios and forms of exercise, while also saving at certain yoga studios. With surgery recovery, I still have a lot of limited motion (still can’t practice a standing series in yoga) and need some variety.
Invested in consistently, all of these choices keep me from losing my mind. And heck, they contribute to my enjoyment of life. I hope you choose to do the same for yourself.
