‘I feel guilty because my savings are bad but I want to live my life’

My savings account is dwindling but that's okay

I'm trying hard to save money but it'll never amount to a number that feels 'enough'.

Many of us are in the same boat, but not having a hefty savings account doesn't mean you've failed.

I'm happy to spend a chunk of my income on things that make me happy like travelling or going out with my friends, and of course, treating myself.

Having a small amount of savings doesn't make you less worthy

Some Her.ie readers recently revealed the items they splashed out on like Vivienne Westwood earrings and noise-cancelling headphones.

One said, "Probably technology repairs. I had to fix my AirPods but it costs the same amount as buying a new pair."

Another shared, "I got a Dyson Fan and it was like €400. I don't use it because you have to replace the filter and I just haven't done it."

Some of us will spend our money on less expensive things like new pyjamas from Penneys, a book we've been dying to read, or the latest Sculpted by Aimee product.

We may feel guilty about shopping, whether our purchases are big or small, but retail therapy makes you happy.

Scientists believe shopping can make you feel happier

Scientists have confirmed that shopping activates a part of your brain that releases dopamine, the feel-good hormone.

People may think retail therapy is frivolous but if treating yourself makes you happy then is it really that bad?

Scientists believe that shopping can offer you a sense of control over your environment which eases feelings of sadness.

A study from the Journal of Consumer Psychology revealed that retail therapy makes you happy instantly. However, it also has the power to stop any lingering sadness.

The team discovered that the act of shopping can help to restore your personal control, as well as autonomy.

I recently told one of my friends that I was disappointed in how little money I had saved, but they reminded me that I spent that money on living a life I enjoy.

It doesn't matter if it was just a €5 coffee I grabbed with a friend or on flights to London, the money led to experiences that created memories I'll always have.

Money is there to be spent and the amount in your savings account doesn't define you.

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