Nancy Lublin's latest Fast Company article, Why Splurging Is Good for Business, brings to light a reminder to all: Life is short. Yes, saving money is an extremely important policy, but what are we really saving it for? The future, the rest of our lives? Our lives are going on right now, and every once in a while, we need to give in to temptation and treat ourselves to a little something. Whether it's Christian Louboutin shoes or a trip to a Broadway play, the pleasure we get out of these splurges is what life is all about.
All too often, we all get stuck in a pattern of restraining ourselves from the things we want the most. What does this really accomplish? Why not take the trip to the beach on the best day of the year? Why not indulge in an extravagant massage after you accomplish your monthly goal? Bonuses are given their name for a reason, meaning "extra pay." Maybe that little bit of extra cash should be used solely on you. Who better to treat than yourself?
At KR Student Loans, we're accepting Nancy's challenge: "Find $100 in your budget and spend it on something extraordinary today. It may be something that feels silly. It should be something that makes your team smile. And it must be something that feels special -- and makes your staff feel special."
This summer, I'm having our interns read the book MoneyBall, which emphasizes the concept of "doing more with less." At the end of the summer, I'm treating them to a baseball game at Citi Field complete with Shake Shack for everyone. As great as is it is to spoil yourself sometimes, it's also great to splurg on others.
We are often told, "life is about the little things." Think about what puts a smile on your face every day. Is it the mere fact that you have a great job, or is it when your boss calls you in to say that he is really impressed with your work? Do you smile when you've saved $30 by ordering in, or when a decadent plate of shrimp scampi is placed in front of you? Think about the things that make you really happy, and do whatever you can to make each happen, at least once. Otherwise, what is life really for?
Written with Susan Scavone