I was fortunate enough to pick up a second job. Before this, I never really spent money on hobbies or things to do. I would do a lot of free or cheap things like hiking, reading, video games, etc.
Now that I have a second job, I’m able to spend a bit of money on hobbies every month without cutting into my savings. I used to tell myself I liked minimalism, I didn’t need a lot of things to be happy. Turns out that was 100% me just coping with being broke.
I was able to start building figures, start taking dog sports more seriously, afford decent camping gear with some extras to make it more comfortable/convenient. I have finally been able to decorate my gaming room and buy some furniture for it. I have even been able to experiment with cooking in new ways, like buying better cuts of meat. I have almost perfected making a steak.
I don’t need this and never did, or so I used to tell myself. I really enjoy having this bit of extra money to spend on myself. It sucks I need to work 2 jobs to afford it. I would have always liked to decorate my space.
Turns out I was just coping.