We’ve all been there—standing in a store or staring at a checkout page online, trying to quickly decide: “Should I spend this money or save it?” The choice between investing and splurging can feel confusing, but it doesn’t have to take hours of thinking. In fact, you can often decide in just 10 seconds with a simple mindset shift.
Start by asking yourself one question: Will this help me grow in some way—financially, personally, or professionally? If the answer is yes, it’s probably an investment. If it brings quick fun or comfort but doesn’t help you grow long term, it might be a splurge.
Let’s look at a simple example. Buying a fancy coffee every day—some call it the latteperday habit. Sure, it adds comfort to your routine, but if you’re also trying to build savings or start investing, that daily coffee might be a good starting point to reconsider. On the other hand, spending the same amount monthly on an online course that helps you boost your income? That’s more likely to be an investment.
The 10-second trick works best when you’re honest with yourself. Splurges aren’t bad—everyone needs to enjoy life. But if every purchase is an impulse buy, it adds up and often leads to regret. Investing feels different. It's that new book that teaches you a skill, those shoes that support your feet while you work, or even time spent learning something new.
Here’s a quick way to frame it in the moment:
- ⏱ Take a deep breath.
- 🤔 Ask: “Will this choice bring value beyond today?”
- 👍 If yes, it’s probably worth it.
- 👎 If no, maybe hold off or find a cheaper option.
You won’t always get it perfect, and that’s okay. The point is to start thinking just a bit more before spending. Even a few better decisions each week can lead to bigger savings or smarter investments over time.
So next time you’re about to tap that “Buy Now” button, pause for 10 seconds. A little thought can make a big difference.
We’ve all been there—standing in a store or staring at a checkout page online, trying to quickly decide: “Should I spend this money or save it?” The choice between investing and splurging can feel confusing, but it doesn’t have to take hours of thinking. In fact, you can often decide in just 10 seconds with a simple mindset shift.
Start by asking yourself one question: Will this help me grow in some way—financially, personally, or professionally? If the answer is yes, it’s probably an investment. If it brings quick fun or comfort but doesn’t help you grow long term, it might be a splurge.
Let’s look at a simple example. Buying a fancy coffee every day—some call it the latteperday habit. Sure, it adds comfort to your routine, but if you’re also trying to build savings or start investing, that daily coffee might be a good starting point to reconsider. On the other hand, spending the same amount monthly on an online course that helps you boost your income? That’s more likely to be an investment.
The 10-second trick works best when you’re honest with yourself. Splurges aren’t bad—everyone needs to enjoy life. But if every purchase is an impulse buy, it adds up and often leads to regret. Investing feels different. It's that new book that teaches you a skill, those shoes that support your feet while you work, or even time spent learning something new.
Here’s a quick way to frame it in the moment:
- ⏱ Take a deep breath.
- 🤔 Ask: “Will this choice bring value beyond today?”
- 👍 If yes, it’s probably worth it.
- 👎 If no, maybe hold off or find a cheaper option.
You won’t always get it perfect, and that’s okay. The point is to start thinking just a bit more before spending. Even a few better decisions each week can lead to bigger savings or smarter investments over time.
So next time you’re about to tap that “Buy Now” button, pause for 10 seconds. A little thought can make a big difference.