For me, I really don't care. This week, I spent $1100 on astronomy equipment. To me, it is money well spent because I will have this stuff for at least a decade, if not a lifetime. You only live once. I will make myself afford it even if I can't right now. It was an adult decision with adult consequences.
I have moved away from video games, and into things that hold their value over a long period of time. I still enjoy video games, but I make those type of purchases less regularly now. This year, I won't buy Madden, MLB the Show or NHL games, because I have specifically made a shift from hobbies that are less expensive, but require more purchases to hobbies that are more expensive but when you purchase something you can own it for a decade or more. When you know you will own something that you will use often, and for a decade or longer it becomes, instead of frivolous spending, an investment in your own personal enjoyment of life. I have zero regrets about the money I spent this week. I am going to have to sacrifice in other areas to do it, but now is the time for me to do so.
