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4 ways to spoil yourself on the cheap

Closeup Of Rich Dark Chocolate Cake Brownies On Plate With Salted Caramel Topping Cut Into Chocolate

If you’re trying to stick to a budget or you’re just a stickler for saving, you may not feel like you get the chance to treat yourself very often. But sometimes, you need to go out of your way to do something nice for yourself. If you want to do that without going on a spending spree, here are some ways you can spoil yourself on the cheap…

Wake up and watch: I’m sure you’ve heard the phrase “Saturday Night at the movies” but what about “Saturday morning at the movies”? Some theaters will have early shows on Saturday mornings, especially if it’s a highly anticipated release. My favorite thing about Saturday morning shows is there’s a good chance you’ll have the theater to yourself and you’ll be out before lunch. It’s a great way to get away, detach from reality, and not feel like you can’t still have a productive Saturday. Plus, you can do it all for a matinee price.

Bake something: If you’re married/have kids, you’re probably used to having desserts and sweets around. If you live alone, hopefully those treats aren’t a regular part of your every day diet. But everybody loves that stuff. Why wouldn’t you? Make a cupcake or brownie that much more special by making them a rare treat. Avoid them at all costs and then reward yourself sometime and get to baking. And you know what? Eat the whole dadgum pan if you want!

Go explore: The Great Outdoors is a funny movie starring John Candy and Dan Aykroyd, but did you know it’s also a place you can go explore that’s good for your soul and FREE?! I know. It’s a surprise. Next time you’re wasting your weekend telling your Netflix that you’re still there, turn that TV off and head outdoors. Go for a hike, find some water and skip some rocks. The fresh air is good for your soul and you’re allowed to breath an unlimited amount of it free of charge.

Just say no: Who remembers the movie Yes Man? In the film, Jim Carrey learns the power of saying yes. Now it’s your turn to learn the power of saying no. We can sometimes get caught up in saying yes to too many things. Plan out a weekend and say no to everything. Spend that time doing activities that make you happy, and if one of those things is sleeping, then sleep. I’m sure we could all use a little more.

John Pettit

John Pettit

CUInsight.com