When I buy a fancy new gadget, I tell myself it’s an ‘investment’. Same goes for those designer shoes. It feels good, doesn’t it?

Convincing yourself you’re making a wise decision when you’re actually just splurging.

But let’s be honest, things aren’t always so black and white.

Sometimes, we’re masters at fooling ourselves, convincing our own minds that these purchases are something more than mere indulgences.

We all do it to varying degrees. But here’s the fun part:

I’ve picked out 8 common ‘investments’ we often trick ourselves into thinking are wise decisions when – you guessed it – they’re just excuses to splurge.

There’s something about the word “designer” that justifies spending an absurd amount on a single item, isn’t there?

You tell yourself that it’s an ‘investment’. That the quality is superior, that it will last longer, and that it will retain its value.

But let’s face it, it’s a splurge.

Most of the time, you’re paying for the brand name rather than the actual item.

And let’s not forget about fashion’s ever-changing trend cycle. Today’s must-have item can easily become tomorrow’s forgotten trend.

So unless you’re planning to resell it (which most of us aren’t), that designer piece isn’t actually an investment.

It’s a treat to yourself, and that’s perfectly fine. But let’s call a spade a spade, shall we?

2) The latest tech gadgets

Oh, how I’ve fallen for this one before!

When the latest smartphone or tablet hits the market, it’s easy to convince ourselves that we ‘need’ it.

We tell ourselves it’s an investment because it’s going to make our lives easier, or more efficient, or even more fun.

Once, I splurged on a high-end tablet, convincing myself that I would use it for work and productivity.

But if I’m honest, it ended up being used more for Netflix binges and endless scrolling on social media.

Sure, these gadgets can sometimes improve our productivity. But most of the time, we’re just itching to have the latest and greatest tech toy.

And that’s okay! Just as long as we’re honest with ourselves about it.

3) Luxury cars

Buying a luxury car can feel like you’re making a smart investment.

After all, they’re built to last, right? And they make quite the statement when you pull up at a red light.

But here’s something to keep in mind: A new car depreciates by an average of 20-30% in its first year. And luxury cars are no exception.

They might come with a hefty price tag, but they lose value just as quickly as any other vehicle, if not quicker.

So, while that shiny new ride might bring a smile to your face, it’s important to remember that it’s more of a splurge than a sound financial decision.

4) High-end kitchen gadgets

Who hasn’t been tempted by a top-of-the-line coffee machine or a state-of-the-art mixer?

We tell ourselves that these gadgets will revolutionize our cooking and make meal prep a breeze.

But let’s be real: Most of these high-end kitchen tools end up collecting dust on our countertops.

Unless you’re a professional chef or a passionate home cook who regularly uses these tools, they’re likely just an excuse to splurge.

Sure, they look great in your kitchen, but if they’re not being used regularly, they’re not really an investment. They’re just expensive decor.

5) Expensive gym memberships

I’ve been there. I’ve signed up for the premium gym membership, convincing myself that I’ll go every day and get my money’s worth.

I told myself it was an investment in my health and fitness.

But let’s be honest, after a few weeks, the novelty wore off, and I found myself skipping more sessions than I attended.

There’s no doubt that investing in your health is important, but expensive gym memberships are often just another excuse to splurge.

After all, there are plenty of ways to stay fit that don’t require a hefty monthly fee.

I’ve learned it’s more about finding a routine you enjoy and can stick to, rather than splashing out on a fancy gym membership.

There’s a common belief that if you’re going to take a vacation, you might as well go all out.

After all, it’s not every day you get to escape the daily grind.

So, we convince ourselves that the overpriced resort package or the first-class plane ticket is an ‘investment’ in our well-being and peace of mind.

But here’s the twist: Studies have shown that experiences, not material possessions, bring us the most happiness.

However, it’s not about how lavish the experience is but the enjoyment and memories it brings.

That means you’re likely to get just as much happiness from a budget-friendly camping trip as you would from a five-star resort stay.

So, while it might feel like an investment, that extravagant vacation package is usually just an excuse to splurge.

7) Overpriced skincare products

Who doesn’t want flawless, glowing skin? It’s easy to convince ourselves that the expensive serum or cream with exotic ingredients is an ‘investment’ in our skin.

And while there’s no denying the importance of a good skincare routine, it’s essential to remember that more expensive doesn’t always mean better.

Many dermatologists agree that a simple, consistent skincare routine with budget-friendly products can be just as effective as using high-end ones.

So, that pricey skincare product might feel like an investment, but more often than not, it’s just an excuse to treat ourselves.

8) Buying a house

Yes, even a house – often touted as the ultimate investment – can be an excuse to splurge.

It’s easy to fall into the trap of buying more houses than we really need, or stretching our budgets for a property in a ‘better’ neighborhood.

But here’s the key: A house is only a good investment if it’s affordable and aligns with your financial goals.

Overextending yourself for a property can lead to financial stress and even debt.

So, while it might go against conventional wisdom, buying a house can sometimes be more of a splurge than a savvy investment.

Embracing the art of mindful spending

If you’ve read this far, you might be reevaluating some of your ‘investments’. And that’s a good thing.

Because mindful spending isn’t about never treating yourself.

It’s about knowing the difference between a genuine investment and a cleverly disguised splurge.

It’s about making informed decisions that align with your financial goals and personal values.

Take a moment. Reflect on your spending habits.

Are they in line with your financial goals? Are you making smart investments or just finding creative ways to justify your splurges?

It’s not about depriving yourself of enjoyment or luxury.

It’s about making conscious, intentional choices that serve you in the long run. Because at the end of the day, you are the best investment you can make.