Have you received a raise recently? Come into an unexpected windfall? Wondering what to do with the extra money?
When our paychecks are bigger or our bank accounts are padded, it’s easy to think of all the ways we can spend the extra money:
Oh, I can finally take that trip. I can go out with friends more often — I’m no longer broke! I can treat myself to dinner out because I deserve it.
Suddenly, the temptation to spend is there almost constantly. That’s why it’s important to know how to avoid lifestyle inflation. Use these 4 simple ideas to make sure it doesn’t get the best of you.
Don’t Give into Peer Pressure
The origin of lifestyle inflation comes from wanting to keep up with the Joneses. We don’t feel adequate when we compare ourselves to what others have. But one of the easiest ways to avoid lifestyle inflation is to stop caring about what other people are doing with their money.
If you find yourself getting jealous of what others have, that’s only going to make you feel worse. Letting insecurity take over is a bad idea. (And many are guilty of going into debt for that very reason.)
Instead, look out for yourself. After all, no one cares about your money as much as you do. Is it really worth the price you’re going to pay to try and impress people?
Make a List of Your Priorities
Along with not caring what others are buying, you should make a list of your own financial priorities. This will make focusing on your needs much easier, and will help you to avoid succumbing to lifestyle inflation when everyone else is.
When making a list of your priorities, think about what you truly want in life. What brings you joy? What do you feel good about spending your money on?
If you’re having a hard time thinking of things, try an opposite approach and come up with a list of things that have given you buyer’s remorse. You’ll know to stay away from those purchases!
Also, think about things you’ve gotten jealous of recently. Did a friend post a picture of their new car on Facebook? Are you envious of a friend who’s currently on vacation in Hawaii? Did you feel down when a family member mentioned getting a brand new, huge house?
Go through these things and question why you’re jealous. Is it because society says we need these things? Is it because you’re upset your friends can “afford” it, but you can’t? Do you really have a desire for any of these things?
It’s okay to be jealous for a moment, but you should be able to take a step back and rationalize. Your possessions don’t equal what you’re worth. Never feel like you’re “below” people because of what they own and what you don’t.
At the end of the day, lifestyle inflation reflects the rampant consumerism in our society. It’s perfectly okay to step away from it and not get sucked in!
Be Realistic About Purchases
Make another list of the pros and cons of all the purchases you’ve been contemplating recently. We’re going to take a realistic approach to lifestyle inflation for a second.
Let’s use the classic example of a new car. Lots of people want new cars. They don’t have half as many problems as older ones, they’re shiny, they have that “new car smell,” and they have a bunch of upgraded features older cars don’t have.
Dig a little deeper. Realize that new cars come with a lot of added expenses that might not make the purchase look so attractive anymore.
For example, your car insurance premium will likely go up. Two, you’ll have a car payment to deal with. This means less money available in your budget. Three, if the price isn’t rolled into your purchase, you’ll be paying DMV fees to register your car. Four, if you finance your car and make minimum payments, you’re going to end up paying more than the initial price due to interest.
Do you sense lifestyle inflation creeping up on you? When you “upgrade” in life, you’re not only paying the (higher) base price for something, you’re also paying for all the additional stuff that comes with it.
Practice Delayed Gratification and Gratitude
One of the easiest ways to combat lifestyle inflation is to wait things out. By making these lists, you’re forcing yourself to think through your purchases, and you’re also practicing delayed gratification. It’s a good habit to have, as you won’t have to worry about impulse spending again!
Another way to care less about what others are doing? Be grateful for what you have. That doesn’t mean don’t work hard toward your goals, or to stay stagnant. Just be grateful for the current situation you’re in.
Even when things seem bad, you’re still reading this. You have access to the internet, to food, to water, and to shelter. Gratitude can give you the perspective you need to realize that spending on all these things is inconsequential.
Are You Ready to Avoid Lifestyle Inflation?
Overall, sticking to your guns will make it easier to avoid lifestyle inflation. We don’t need nearly as much as we’re led to believe.
Always question your purchases. Make decisions for yourself, and don’t let the actions of others influence you. Remain grateful for what you have in life. Avoiding lifestyle inflation will be a cinch.
