The “Treat Yourself” Test: How to Know When It’s Okay to Spend Money on Wants — Guilt-Free

Why Spending on Yourself Isn’t the Enemy

We’ve all heard it: “Ipon lang nang ipon.” Save money. Delay gratification. Hustle now, reward later. But when exactly does later arrive? For many Filipinos, especially those carving their path from the ground up, spending on wants can feel like sneaking dessert before dinner — indulgent, irrational, and somehow shameful. Guilt becomes the shadow that follows every small treat, even the ones you've earned.

But let’s flip the script. Spending isn’t the villain in your story — reckless spending is. Like fire, money can either warm your home or burn it down. Used wisely, even a credit card — often painted as a trap — can become a tool for conscious indulgence. Tiny, well-planned joys can refill your emotional tank, keep burnout at bay, and actually make long-term goals easier to reach by making the journey feel worth it.

So let’s break free from the gospel of all-sacrifice, no-joy. It’s time to treat yourself not just guilt-free — but wisely and with intention without sacrificing your financial goals.

‍

If you’re debating whether to buy that bag, book that trip, or splurge on sushi, run your decision through this simple test:

1. Can you afford it without touching your essentials?

If your rent, bills, insurance, emergency fund, and savings account are all in order — and this purchase won’t derail any of that — that’s checkpoint one cleared. Wants should come after needs, but they should come eventually with no trade offs.

2. Does it support your well-being or creativity?

Will this purchase nourish your mental health, help you de-stress, or support a hobby or side hustle? That’s different from buying something just because it’s trending or you’re sad.

According to behavioral finance experts, purchases tied to identity and long-term satisfaction tend to provide more lasting joy and fewer regrets.

3. Will it bring lasting joy (not just instant relief)?

Ask yourself: Will I still be happy about this tomorrow? Next week? If it’s a yes — or even a likely yes — you’ve passed the test.

‍

The “Fun Fund” (10–15% of your income rule)

To make spending sustainable without having to feel guilty, assign it a budget category. Financial experts suggest allocating 10–15% of your monthly take-home pay toward a "Fun Fund."

This isn’t money wasted. It’s money assigned to joy — so you can indulge without touching savings or living expenses.

Sample “Fun Fund” Breakdown Based on Monthly Take-Home Pay

These numbers assume you’ve already covered your essentials, emergency fund, and savings goals.

Ways to automate guilt-free spending

Once you've set your "Fun Fund," make it official:

• Open a separate checking account just for wants
• Auto-transfer 10–15% of your salary to that account every payday
• Use apps like Tonica or Komo to create spendable savings categories and manage your finances

This way, you're still budgeting — just for joy, not just bills. Making sure you still have money left in the tank for emergency situations.

Why a credit card with the right perks can be your best ally

Using a rewards-based or cashback credit card can supercharge your Fun Fund. Think:

• Free flights from everyday purchases
• Cashback on shopping and dining
• Exclusive discounts or eGCs

Check out our guide to credit card perks in the Philippines to find the best match for your spending style.

‍

Spending guilt-free doesn't mean shopping mindlessly. Here’s how to keep your values in check:

Pause before purchasing

Use the 48-hour rule. If you still want the item after two days, it’s likely a meaningful want — not an emotional reaction.

Mindful hacks from minimalist budgeting styles

Minimalist spenders often:

• Track their "joy per peso" from past purchases
• Stick to a wishlist, not impulse buys
• Ask, “Would I still want this if no one saw it on IG?”

Need deeper awareness around emotional spending? Read about the Sakit ng Ulo Tax and try the Financial Gym for a mindset reset.

‍

Conclusion: Joy Isn’t Irresponsible — It’s Just Not Supposed to Be Unpaid

Spending on yourself isn’t a detour from your goals — it can be part of the map. Like choosing scenic stops on a road trip, intentional indulgence can align with your values, your priorities, and the future you're steering toward.

In fact, even the most rigid forms of traditional budgeting are evolving to make space for joy. Because what’s the point of perfect spreadsheets if you’re constantly running on empty?

So go ahead, treat yourself — not as an act of impulse, but as a quiet flex of control. You’re not letting money slip through your fingers; you’re directing it like a conductor guiding a symphony, with every credit card swipe or small splurge tuned to your rhythm and your financial situation.

Want a printable version of the “Treat Yourself” Test? Comment “CHEAT SHEET” and we’ll DM you the download link.

References

• New York Times – How Happy Are You With Your Spending?
• Psychology Today – The Psychology of Delayed Gratification
• Investopedia – Budgeting Basics

‍