Diminishing Returns of Materialism

Other than wrinkles, dark pigmentation and back aches, there are two other signs of aging that you'll experience. 

1. Diminishing Returns of Materialism, and

2. Increased Propensity to Save.

My first Balenciaga

My recent big purchase was the Dior Saddle Bag and the strap that's paired with it in the Dior influencer campaigns. Now... don't get me wrong... I don't regret purchasing it but I did feel a tiny-sized bullet go through my chest as I was paying for them. There was something else I realized... I didn't feel as ecstatic as I did before. 

I remember my first few designer bags. I was into Balenciaga City Bags and I really wanted them... I may have even cried because I wanted them that much. I think they were one month's worth of student allowance back when I was an undergraduate in Nottingham.  When I graduated from my Masters, I ended up with a Gucci, a Prada, 2 Balenciagas, 6 Bond No. 9 perfumes, loads of shoes... and a whole lot of other luxury items that I was afraid to bring home to my mother. I mean, my parents would have to send me food from home and they'd lecture me every time they see something new. Pretty embarrassing--not proud of it.

Aftermath of Kurt Geiger going on sale - mine and my housemates

I remember being so ecstatic about those purchases I would have hugged them to sleep if I could. But now... I'm not as happy considering the amount I just swiped. I realize that every other new luxury item I purchase, it makes me more happy but the amount of marginal happiness is depreciating. 

What's increasing is my addiction to park money for the future. I get excited about saving now and watching your savings grow makes you even more motivated to save. I can give you savings tips--maybe next time. Wow, I feel so adult. I never thought I would get here, but here I am. I think twice before swiping my credit card. I got my insurances and retirement plans set (scarily, it still isn't enough for me to maintain my current lifestyle when I retire). I've parked a little in investments and my car loan is paid off. 

I do wonder if I'll ever feel that level of euphoria again. I think the last time I really loved a luxury purchase was in 2014 and it was a pair of Louboutins. But this is good! I will remind myself every time I want a new bag whether it'll make me crazy happy or just mediocre happy. If it's the latter, it's definitely not worth it. 

I do still splurge on myself from time to time. I am a girl after all and a professional shopaholic. Once in a while, I get myself an expensive dress or spend a bit too much on skincare (another sign of aging btw is when you choose skincare over makeup) but now I can feel that I have more control over my impulses. If I don't need it or if there's a cheaper option, out my cart it goes. 

Love,