Comments on: Why Do I Feel Guilty For Spending the Money I Saved?

By: Bernie

Bernie — Sun, 01 Apr 2012 18:50:05 +0000

I think you might feel guilty because, as you said, you did not save the money with any purpose in mind. The folks you reference who spend money on vacations, etc., most likely saved that money specifically for that reason and so it makes sense to use it once the correct amount is acquired. Aimless saving helps you to accumulate money but it can result in feeling guilty when you spend the money you’ve saved…but that’s why it’s there! You didn’t save money to let it be a number on a paper, no matter how much comfort that gives you…you save money so you can have a comfortable, stress free life full of the things and people you love. I think it’s wonderful that you can use the money you saved in order to make the most of this time with your adorable son. You shouldn’t feel bad! This is what it’s about. This is what you worked for.

By: Jennifer

Jennifer — Sat, 31 Mar 2012 15:25:48 +0000

You only get to spend time with your baby once, you have your whole lifetime to earn back that money you are taking out of your savings. I left my six figure job to stay home with my newborn son in Jan 2011. We are dipping into savings, but I knew that would happen, and am ok with it as long as it’s not for unnecessary purchases. I know one day I’ll have to get a job again, but for now I am enjoying the time with my son.

By: JT

JT — Sat, 31 Mar 2012 14:55:13 +0000

I don’t have an answer as to why you feel guilty but I can tell you I feel the same way! Once money is transferred into savings it is as if it is GONE. I recently used a reasonable chunk of savings to pay down our house for a refi (cut 3% off our rate and 15 years off the loan term), but I still feel ill over the fact I used the savings. Just wanted to share that you are not alone and I get it.