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Take the trip

When my grandma turned 80, we took a big trip to Switzerland with my mom, my aunt and me. It was one of those coach tours with a guide, where everything was organized for us. It was completely worth it. My grandma had a wonderful time, even participated in a yodeling contest, and still talks about that trip almost seven years later.

The memories we made are priceless, and I wouldn’t even worry about the money. If you can afford it without negatively affecting your finances—and since this is coming from an unexpected windfall, you can—absolutely go for it. Do everything while you’re there: eat at every outdoor bistro, try every pastry and croissant, visit all the museums. I guarantee you won’t regret it!

| SkitterBug42 / Reddit

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When you look good you feel good

I invested in myself by getting cosmetic surgery. I lost 130 pounds and completed graduate school. As a reward, I decided to have loose skin removal surgery.

As I got closer to reaching my goals, I realized the surgery was actually twice as expensive as I had originally thought. It became more of choosing a new body or a house down payment. I saw it as investing in my body, which is my permanent home.

I’ve had two rounds of surgery—one last year and one this month—and I have no regrets. I made many sacrifices to get where I am financially and health-wise. I’m single with no children, so this is the time for me to do something that’s 100% for myself.

This process has taught me that I am very disciplined, so I know I can always save the money again. Sometimes you just need to make room for the things you really want. It won't happen immediately, but if you’re disciplined and consistent, you can achieve what you want.

| figoak / Reddit

Anything for a good meal

My partner and I took a $500 per person cooking class in Reykjavik. It was just the instructor, her partner, and the two of us. We learned how to make a rack of lamb and other local dishes. After cooking, we got to enjoy everything we made, with wine pairings for each of the four courses. We learned, we chatted, and we ate.

| NotLostJustWanderin / Reddit

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A designer bag is worth it

My sister bought a stunning blue Chanel bag for me in Paris. I was thrilled to get a VAT refund on it as well. I have absolutely no regrets about the purchase!

| sherylsaurus / Reddit

Time to upgrade

I hadn't bought a new car in over twenty years; all my previous cars were used. Two years ago, I finally got a brand new car with a touring package and leather seats. It felt like learning to drive a spaceship with all the modern features, but now I really enjoy driving it because it’s so nice.

| mzwfan / Reddit

Invest in yourself

I decided to invest in myself and go to graduate school. It was a big decision because tuition isn’t cheap but I loved being in school again. If it was up to me, I would go back to get my PhD.

| thisistheend1983 / Reddit

Nothing like a good pair of denim

I recently cleaned out my closet, sold a bunch of things, and used the money to buy a ridiculously expensive pair of jeans. They were around $240. However, I’ve worn them almost constantly, so in the end, I’m really happy with the decision, even though it does feel a little ridiculous.

| heyitsmaggie / Reddit

But first coffee

I recently bought a $300 espresso machine, and it has been a fantastic companion during lockdown. My only regret is not purchasing it when the U.S. first started lockdowns over 10 months ago. Although I already had plenty of other ways to make coffee and didn't really need it, there’s truly nothing like a good shot of espresso to brighten my day.

| AnnaErick / Reddit

Do it for the horse

I finally bought a horse after a lifetime of riding, even though I never had one of my own before. It required a huge amount of budgeting and significant changes to my lifestyle, but it’s been the best and most rewarding expense I’ve ever chosen. Owning my own horse has brought me immense joy and fulfillment, making every sacrifice completely worth it.

| Kind_Session_6986 / Reddit

Good quality cotton

I spent five months traveling with my significant other between jobs, knowing it would be our last chance to be completely free to explore before settling down. I have absolutely no regrets about that decision.

Another purchase I don’t regret is the 100% wool Harry Potter Lochaven cardigan I got at Universal. It cost over $120 CAD, but it’s the warmest thing to have during cold Canadian winters. I’ve worn it almost every day this winter and am now thinking of getting a Slytherin one to add to my Gryffindor collection.

| elyse6014 / Reddit

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Victoria Vesovski is a Staff Writer for Moneywise currently pursuing her Masters of Journalism at New York University.

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