Why We Splurge on Temporary Things: The Psychology Behind Short-Term Spending

We’ve all been there. A beautiful balayage treatment to refresh your look. A last-minute weekend getaway because you deserve it. Or an upgrade to the latest gadget, even though the one you have works perfectly fine. Temporary indulgences often feel good in the moment, but they can leave us wondering later: Why did I spend so much on something so short-lived?

The truth is, short-term spending is not just about money—it’s about psychology.

Our emotions, habits, and even societal norms play a huge role in why we prioritize temporary pleasures over long-term financial goals. 

In this article, we’ll explore the psychology behind these choices and how we can strike a balance between indulging today and securing a better tomorrow.

The Lure of Instant Gratification

One of the biggest reasons people splurge on temporary things is instant gratification—the desire to experience pleasure or fulfillment without delay. In today’s fast-paced world, we’re conditioned to expect quick rewards. Streaming platforms deliver entertainment on demand, online shopping offers same-day delivery, and social media provides immediate validation through likes and comments.

This same mindset bleeds into our spending habits. Why save for something down the line when you can enjoy it now? Getting your dream Manhattan balayage treatment or splurging on a fancy dinner offers an immediate boost to your mood, making the present feel brighter and more enjoyable.

The Science Behind Instant Gratification

Instant gratification taps into the brain’s reward system. When you make a purchase, your brain releases dopamine, a “feel-good” chemical. The problem? The pleasure is temporary. Once the dopamine rush fades, you may feel regret, especially if the purchase doesn’t align with your long-term goals.

This cycle demonstrates how closely spending habits are tied to behavioral patterns. In fact, personal finance is deeply dependent upon your behavior. Your ability to manage emotions, delay gratification, and make intentional decisions plays a critical role in achieving financial stability.

Solution: Practice delayed gratification by waiting 24 hours before making non-essential purchases. Often, the initial urge fades, helping you avoid unnecessary spending.

Emotional Spending: When Money Meets Mood

Temporary splurges often stem from emotional triggers. Feeling stressed, bored, or unhappy? A quick shopping spree can serve as a distraction or pick-me-up.

Spending to “Feel Good”

For some, spending is a form of self-care. A new hairstyle, an upgraded phone, or even a small treat like a latte can feel like a way to reward yourself after a tough day. But while these purchases might improve your mood momentarily, they often don’t address the root cause of your emotions.

For example, people may book beauty treatments like balayage not just to look good, but because it’s tied to a deeper need—confidence, social acceptance, or a sense of control.

Solution: Instead of turning to spending to boost your mood, find alternative ways to cope, such as exercising, meditating, or connecting with loved ones.

The Influence of Social Media and Societal Pressures

Social media plays a massive role in shaping our spending habits. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest bombard us with curated snapshots of people living their “best lives”—from luxurious vacations to perfectly styled outfits.

The Fear of Missing Out (FOMO)

When you see someone else enjoying life, it’s natural to want the same for yourself. This fear of missing out (FOMO) can lead to impulsive purchases, as you try to keep up with trends or experiences that appear to bring happiness.

For instance, seeing influencers flaunt their beauty transformations or exotic vacations can make you feel like you need the same to fit in or feel accomplished.

Solution: Remind yourself that social media is a highlight reel, not reality. Create a financial plan that reflects your values and goals, rather than someone else’s lifestyle.

The Comfort of Temporary Ownership

Sometimes, the appeal of temporary spending lies in the simplicity of the purchase. You don’t have to worry about long-term commitment or maintenance. A spa day or a fancy dinner is a one-time expense, making it feel more manageable than, say, saving for a house or investing in retirement.

The Allure of Small Wins

Small, temporary purchases give you a sense of achievement without the stress of major financial decisions. It’s easier to justify spending $100 on a salon visit than $10,000 on a long-term investment.

Solution: Reframe the way you view long-term goals. Instead of seeing them as sacrifices, think of them as investments in your future happiness. Use tools like vision boards or apps to track progress and make saving feel rewarding.

Scarcity Mindset and “Treating Yourself”

For some people, temporary splurges are rooted in a scarcity mindset—the belief that resources are limited and opportunities must be seized immediately. This can lead to a “treat yourself” mentality, where spending becomes a way to compensate for past sacrifices or hardships.

Rewarding Hard Work

Maybe you’ve been working overtime or sacrificing leisure for months. Splurging on a designer bag or a lavish night out feels like a well-deserved reward. While there’s nothing wrong with celebrating your achievements, overindulging can derail your financial stability.

Solution: Set aside a specific “fun money” budget for indulgences. This way, you can treat yourself without guilt or overspending.

The Guilt of Spending Too Little

On the flip side, some people struggle with guilt when it comes to spending—even on temporary things. This can lead to a buildup of frustration, causing them to overspend impulsively as a way to “make up for it.”

Why People Feel Guilty About Spending

Cultural or family values may teach that money should be saved, not spent. For these individuals, even necessary purchases can feel indulgent. Over time, this guilt can create a negative relationship with money.

Solution: Reframe spending as a tool for living a balanced life. Remember, money is meant to be used—whether for needs, goals, or occasional treats.

How to Balance Short-Term Pleasures and Long-Term Goals

Splurging on temporary things isn’t inherently bad. In fact, it can enhance your quality of life and provide joy. The key is to strike a balance between enjoying today and planning for tomorrow.

1. Understand Your Spending Triggers

Identify what drives your spending. Is it boredom, stress, social pressure or maybe a form of grief self care? Once you know your triggers, you can develop healthier coping mechanisms.

2. Budget for Temporary Indulgences

Allocate a portion of your budget specifically for short-term pleasures. Knowing you have money set aside for fun can reduce guilt and prevent overspending.

3. Prioritize What Matters Most

Not all temporary things are created equal. Spend on experiences or items that align with your values. For instance, if a balayage treatment boosts your confidence, it might be worth the expense.

4. Practice Mindful Spending

Before making a purchase, ask yourself:

• Why am I buying this?
• Does this align with my goals?
• Will this bring lasting joy or just a momentary thrill?

5. Automate Your Savings

Set up automatic transfers to your savings account so you’re consistently building your financial future, even as you enjoy short-term splurges.

Wrapping It Up: Embracing Balance

Temporary spending can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, it adds joy and spontaneity to life. On the other, it can derail your financial goals if left unchecked. The key is to understand the psychological factors driving your spending habits and to make intentional choices that balance short-term pleasure with long-term well-being.

Remember, it’s not about depriving yourself but about spending in a way that reflects your values and aspirations. So go ahead, enjoy that balayage or occasional indulgence—but make sure it’s part of a bigger plan that helps you build the life you truly want.