Summary

The author shares three life lessons learned after purchasing an expensive smartphone, emphasizing the importance of financial responsibility, enjoying life beyond mere subsistence, and avoiding the influence of FOMO (Fear of Missing Out).

Abstract

The article recounts the author's experience and reflections following the decision to buy a high-end Samsung S22 Ultra smartphone, a significant departure from their previous budget-conscious phone choices. The author, who has always advocated for transparency and alignment with personal morals and beliefs, explains that the purchase was justified by sufficient savings and a desire to reward oneself without causing financial strain. The lessons learned include recognizing the value of treating oneself to enhance personal well-being, understanding that life should not be confined to just getting by, and the importance of making purchases for personal satisfaction rather than succumbing to societal pressures like FOMO. The author also acknowledges their privilege in being able to afford such luxuries and encourages readers to balance practicality with pleasure, suggesting that occasional indulgences are part of a well-rounded life.

Opinions

The author believes that one should not feel guilty about spending on luxury items if it is within their means and does not jeopardize their financial stability.
There is an emphasis on the idea that life is not solely about living within one's budget; it's also about occasional indulgences that bring joy and a sense of luxury.
The author opposes the concept of FOMO, asserting that purchases should be made based on personal desire and satisfaction rather than external validation or the need to keep up with others.
The author values the importance of self-reflection and understanding one's own needs and desires to make informed and fulfilling purchasing decisions.
Acknowledging their financial prudence and background, the author expresses gratitude for the ability to partake in consumerism and recognizes the struggle of those with financial constraints.
The author encourages readers to see life as more than just work and survival, advocating for the idea of rewarding oneself as a form of self-care and motivation.

3 Important Life Lessons I Learned After Spending $1.3K

All coming from a smartphone

Photo by Ishan @seefromthesky on Unsplash

When I’m on this platform, I strive to always be transparent with what I write.

Making sure what I express aligns with my morals and beliefs has been my utmost priority.

Hence, I have to let my readers know that I bought myself the newest, flagship smartphone by Samsung.

Yes, it is the S22 Ultra (Sheeshhh. I purchased the Phantom White Colour)

It was the first-ever expensive phone I have ever bought.

My previous phones were budget phones — not that they weren’t functional, but they were never on the premium spectrum of smartphones.

I was a staunch believer that one does not need to acquire the best, top-of-the-line smartphones. I used to think that it is simply a waste of money. After all, my frugal mind was telling me that phones are simply for communication — to call and message one another.

As long as a phone satisfies that purpose, I never really felt the need to get a $1000 phone when a $500 phone will suffice.

However, this time around, I went against the grain and bought the best and most expensive smartphone on the market.

So, what exactly led me to my decision?

I Had Enough To Cover The Financial Costs

I had an “8–5” job which paid me well.

Couple it with my low monthly expenses, I managed to save up quite an amount.

Being aware of that convinced me further that the money saved was able to compensate greatly for what is spent on the smartphone.

Simultaneously, I don’t suffer much from an emotional “heartburn” from spending a huge sum on a smartphone.

Aside from the emotional “heartburn”, the price tag did not affect my finances greatly. If I had only $2K USD in savings, a phone would not be considered — unless I’d like to eat instant noodles for the rest of the month.

It boils down to the availability of your savings and the extent to which the phone will cost you financially.

The phone passed on the two aforementioned criteria. Hence, I bought it.

Understanding That Life Is More Than Just Subsistence

I realized that life is more than just living under our budget.

There are times when we should treat ourselves to feel good.

To feel like we “bougie”.

To evoke those feelings, some people buy themselves a luxury car, a private property.

But…that’s not possible for all, isn’t it?

Therefore, we all should procure an object or property that makes us feel “bougie”— something we can afford without breaking the bank.

Why?

It is to treat ourselves to something good once in a while.

It is built upon a system of incentivization. To create a positive feedback loop.

Similar to how we treat ourselves after accomplishing an incredible feat.

But note that we should not overindulge in hedonism.

There is a time and purpose for such occasions.

If we were to be overly engrossed in our desires, we lose motivation to conquer difficult tasks — specifically tasks which may not necessarily be ‘fun’.

No, I Did Not FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out)

If I FOMO-ed, I would have also bought the Samsung Watch, Earbuds — to complete the whole “ecosystem”.

But I didn’t.

The feeling of FOMO essentially stems from the sense of inferiority felt by comparing one’s experiences with others. You’re seeking validation from the herd rather than yourself. Toxic trait to have in the long run as you find yourself improving for others, rather than yourself.

But it’s completely normal for us to feel FOMO.

We innately crave attention as humans.

To escape from FOMO, one needs to gain a better insight into themselves and seek what truly sparks joy in their life.

I’ve been looking for a multi-functional phone which can cater to my daily needs. Besides practicality, I genuinely want a better camera on my smartphones. Never really been a camera person but I’ve been wanting to capture more in life than ever — maybe it’s the age catching up to me.

Hence, when S22 Ultra came out, it ticked all my criteria and I bought it.

For myself and myself only.

Before I end this article, I’d like to mention that I am grateful for the privilege to be financially capable to indulge in consumerism. I’m not born with a silver spoon and my family isn’t well off financially. Whether is it due to my frugal nature or my financial conditions, I will always ponder about spending money regardless of the price — even to this day. Hence, I empathize with those with dire financial conditions.

However, I hope to broaden one’s horizon with one’s idea of enjoying life.

To implore people to see life as more than just working to survive.

To remind people that they should treat themselves once in a while.

Because you deserved it.

I’m trying out a different style of writing here.

Rather than just sharing informative-type articles, I would share more about my experiences and any learnings that come with it instead!

Let me know if you resonated with and enjoyed this piece! Feel free to leave comments. I’ll be keen to reply!

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