How I Splurge Then VS Now
//Then (Late teens to mid 20s)
✨️Grab rides
I worked in the central of Singapore and find myself grabbing almost everyday to work. I wanted to avoid the crowd in trains and also, I found it difficult to wake up in the morning.
✨️Clothes
I buy so much clothes gosh, i was a shopperholic. I like getting the same top in the different colours, same for bottoms, accessories etc. I would have trouble clearing my wardrobe as there was simply no space.
✨️ Desserts
I've got a sweet tooth and constantly going to dessert places for ice cream, frozen yoghurts, waffles, cakes, cupcakes just a lot of desserts and pastries. I am a gifter so I like buying desserts for my friends, colleagues and family.
✨️ Skincare
I splurge on skincare as I used to have too much time on hand, getting into the countless steps of korean skincare routine and subscribe to monthly skincare boxes.
✨️ Makeup
You'll see me in Sephora whenever I go to town lol. I splurge on makeup as I wasn't confident to face the world without it but now as a mom, I couldn't care less if i have makeup or not 🤣
// Now (Mid 20s to 30)
✨️ Food
More more more! It's never enough. For special occassions, me and my husband will splurge on good food. I love Japanese cuisine so it was a no brainer for my husband to bring me to Omakase for my birthdays.
✨️ Insurance
As we age, we know the importance of insurance, especially in this generation where sickness in the young is not uncommon.
✨️ Travels
I did not travel often as I did not have the money for it when in my late teens. Now with a family, I would travel at least once a year and bring my little girl along, occassionally will just be me and my husband. We love experiencing a diverse culture and be away from the congested Singapore.
✨️ Kids Stuff
Now with a kid, at least 30% of our expenses goes to our little one. Her clothes, toys, books, outings and play are not exactly cheap. It is really easy to earn money from parents, we are on the 'TAKE MY MONEY' streak when we see she enjoys all the activities - indoor playground, bicycle rental during beach days, Zoo, Bird Park etc. I also enjoy dressing my little girl so it's a new set of clothes every month kind of situation. I have transformed from getting clothes for myself to getting for my kid lol.
✨️ Health Checks
Health is priority so me and my husband do our health checks annually since we were 24/25. Although it is fully paid for by my husband's company, we consider it as something we splurge on since it is not 100% free if not for his company's benefits.
✨️ Investments
Yeah adulting kinda suck but we believe in multiplying our assets and with the right strategy. Keeping up with inflation is tough for most people and who ever thinks there's enough money? Unless you are Elon Musk.
✨️ Groceries
I cook almost everyday now as a stay home mom and I only buy organic so it comes with a hefty price tag. I believe the food we are consuming is no longer the same as before and organic puts a rest to my worries especially with feeding a developing toddler.
Do you guys have a similar list? Let's share!
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Reflecting on my splurging habits today, I realize how much they have evolved to reflect my current lifestyle and values. Back in my late teens and early 20s, splurging was all about indulging in myself—whether that was endless shopping sprees, frequent dessert runs, or experimenting with skincare and makeup products. It was a time of self-discovery and trying to build confidence, which made those purchases feel rewarding. Now, as a mom in my 30s, my focus has shifted dramatically. While I still appreciate treating myself occasionally, the majority of my spending revolves around providing the best for my family. Investing in health insurance and annual health check-ups gives me peace of mind, and splurging on quality food and travel experiences brings joy and creates precious memories with my loved ones. An unexpected but rewarding change has been how much my spending now centers on my child—clothes, toys, enriching outings, and activities that make her happy are definitely worth the splurge. Cooking organic meals daily ensures we're all eating healthily, though it adds up in cost. I’ve also begun thinking more about finances and investments, understanding the importance of growing assets for a secure future. Splurging doesn’t just mean spending—it’s about choosing where to place value based on life stages and priorities. Ultimately, my splurging habits tell a story of growth, shifting from self-indulgence to mindful spending for health, happiness, and family well-being.
