c/self-esteem·Posted by u/hannah_brooks·1h ago

Why do I feel guilty every time I spend money on something just for me?

I bought a pair of running shoes yesterday. Not designer. On sale. I had been wearing a pair with a hole in the heel for months because "they're still fine." At the register I almost put them back. On the walk home I listed everything else the money could have gone to: groceries, the birthday gift I owe my cousin, the dentist. I used the shoes this morning and they felt good, which somehow made it worse, like I'd bought myself a treat I hadn't earned. I have no problem spending on other people. A round of drinks, a nicer bottle of wine when friends come over. The second it's mine, it feels selfish. How do you buy yourself a normal thing without writing a defense in your head?

Peer discussion on askDr.app. Not therapy and not a substitute for professional care.