Things you can spend money on

In the Netherlands, we are always a bit afraid to talk about money and especially to talk about spending money . “We are frugal” and so on. But you know, there are quite a few things you can spend money on comfortably and without shame, because some things make life so much more enjoyable.

Cleaner

Yes, you can certainly spend a few hours on the weekend with a cleaning cloth next to your full-time job, but your free hours are scarce and you have already worked all week. Treat yourself to that weekend and especially, treat yourself to that clean house. I always felt a bit awkward about hiring a cleaner because I felt like a “white Western woman with more money than you,” until I once read somewhere that it is work for that other woman too, and that you make each other's work possible. And if you look at it that way, you're actually quite crazy for not having a cleaner.

Personal trainer

As you all know (because announced here extensively), I am currently back to exercising. With a personal trainer who completely exhausts me twice a week. And I love it. I actually enjoy exercising more than I want to admit, but I simply don't have the discipline to go to the gym myself. The result is that I pay a huge amount per month for a gym that I NEVER go to. That's a waste. You might as well pay a little more (or a lot more) and actually get something out of it. Moreover, with a trainer, you always progress further and exercise better than when you're alone.

Handyman

Once I thought that my best friend and I could certainly mount all those lists on the slanted ceiling in my bedroom ourselves. The result: big holes in a plaster wall, broken frames, and a whole lot of frustration and anger. So don't do that anymore. Just hire someone who knows what they're doing. It might cost a bit more, but at least you know it will be done well.

Economy Comfort

Since I have flown a really long flight in business class , I understand why people spend so much money on it. Now, it is never feasible for me to pay for that myself, but an upgrade to Economy Comfort should still be doable. For example, to New York, that costs €80, and I have never done that, but after that business class experience, I will definitely treat myself to that luxury the next time I fly long distance.

Shoemaker

I know women who rarely go to the shoemaker because “that's so expensive.” Yes, a new sole quickly costs you 40 euros, new heels about 10 euros, and if you want to give them a good wash, you have to pay 30 euros for that. “Yes, that's damn EIGHTY euros for a pair that hasn't even cost 70!” But that's not how it works. Things need maintenance. You're happy with them, right? You like wearing them? Then take care of them. And that can cost a bit.

Good hairdresser

Few things are as important as your hair, so it's a total mystery to me why people settle for the neighbor with a hobby who will trim your locks for a tenner. Really people, take the pain and shell out that 80 bucks for a really good hairdresser who really knows what they are doing.