I read 15 to 20?.
So I feel guilty when spending money. Since 19, I invest (not save) almost every single penny I get.
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I never buy coffee from X cafe because I can make it cheaper at home (unless its for "socialising" purposes).
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I don't buy a sandwich from subway because I can make it cheaper at home so I pack my lunch to college (and I enjoy the process).
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I spoil myself with $10 (with a saving coupon) takeaway once a week .
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Should I buy the latest iphone? Nah, my 3 year old android phone which I pad $300 is still solid.
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Do I need some flashy clothes from Dior, LV...? Nah, I am very happy with my $20 jeans.
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Are my parents doing good in terms of finance? Household income is above 6 figures in a MCOL area.
I used to be very lifestyle creep, didn't even get takeaway or refused to buy coffee even for socialising because I found it unnecessary. That's why people used to call me penny pincher in high school (and I am not blaming them).
After starting a small business (which ended quite quickly), I earned $3k. This way, I could justify takeaway because I did earn my money (bear in mind my parents are still sending money for rent + food which is enough for takeaway once a week).
As you can guess from the title, I would like to spend the money on something which I found fascinating: VR headset + new computer.
I have been thinking a lot, a lot since the day I discovered both r/FIRE and r/UKPersonalFinance (at the age of 18). One thing I learned that was in order to FIRE, you need to earn A LOT so its not all about saving every penny. (I did learn other concepts but wish I never learned it, at least at that age so ignorance was a bliss...).
This year, I will graduate (with $53k in student loans) and start working at some IT desk earning $42,000.
The thing is when I work out my future spending, only ~$350 is left at the end of the month after rent, bills, food and paying student loans. Here is the breakdown
And this is the point why I built up so much: I already made $3k and will be left with $350 a month after starting to work. It costs ~$2700 to get a VR headset + high end computer. In order to get that while I am working, I need to save up for 8 months with no extra spending. This is crazy
Let alone the time, will I even have time and energy to play with it?
I am expecting $3k to get 10% ROI which is $300 a year. I am not sure if I would prefer that over a VR headset + gaming computer. I don't usually spend money but when I do, oh boy I go bankrupt.
I assume my budgeting will get worse when I graduate. What am I suppose to do with $350, stick it in an investment to earn $35 which then half of it will be wasted due to inflation? I think I much rather spend it all to Legos, games etc.
What would you do if you were in my shoes? Get a VR headset + gaming computer and enjoy the technology while I got time or do something else/invest?
Submitted December 25, 2021 at 07:14AM by Kilexey https://ift.tt/3yVXEbs
