How to Buy Happiness? 22-Year-Old Earning ₹2 Lakh Monthly Asks Reddit if Spending ₹80K Guilt-Free Is Okay

In an age where financial literacy often begins online, a 22-year-old professional has sparked a viral conversation on Reddit by asking a deceptively simple question: “Should I feel guilty about spending ₹80,000 a month if my investments are already in place?”

The anonymous user, who earns ₹2 lakh monthly and maintains a disciplined approach to savings through SIPs and other investments, admitted he’s torn between financial prudence and the desire to enjoy life. “Sometimes I feel like I should just spend on whatever I like,” he wrote. “But it doesn’t make sense to splurge.”

The query quickly resonated with thousands, especially fellow Gen Z and millennial users. Reddit responded with a flood of thoughtful, empathetic, and often humorous replies, underlining that managing money is as much about emotional balance as it is about numbers.

The Dilemma: Spend or Save More?
Having grown up with frugal values, the idea of guilt-free spending—even after saving responsibly—felt alien to the Redditor. But his honesty found a welcoming audience. Many advised him to spend mindfully and find joy in experiences rather than possessions.

One widely upvoted reply reminded, “You can’t take your money with you. Enjoy it while you can.” Another urged in Hindi, “Yeh jawaani fir nahi aani”—you won’t get your youth back.

Reddit’s Advice: Purpose Over Pressure
A recurring suggestion was to travel, even if just on weekends. Others shared their “happy spends” — a bike, solo treks, a gaming laptop — not as luxuries, but as investments in well-being. “Solo trips to the mountains helped me stay sane,” one user commented.

Hobbies, self-care, and experiences were consistently recommended over material goods. “Don’t fall for trends. Spend on what truly makes you happy,” wrote one Redditor.

Some Say Save Smarter
Not all advice leaned toward indulgence. Financially astute users encouraged exploring Public Provident Fund (PPF), National Pension System (NPS), or diversifying into gold. “If you don’t need the ₹80K right now, use it to strengthen your future,” said one post. Another added, “Balance SIPs with safer instruments. Or get a certified advisor.”

One user shared a cautionary tale: “I hoarded money in my 20s but missed out on memories. I regret not traveling or taking time off.”

Community and Curiosity
As the post gained momentum, curiosity followed. “What do you do to earn ₹2 lakh a month at 22?” asked one commenter. Another joked, “Bhai, hum toh saal bhar mein bhi nahi kamata itna”—”Bro, I don’t make this much in a year.”

Amid the banter came a deeper message: happiness isn’t just about building wealth, but knowing how to enjoy it. “Don’t chase numbers endlessly,” said one philosophical reply. “Spend on what makes you feel alive.”

Takeaway: Use Money as a Tool, Not Just a Scorecard
The overwhelming message? It’s okay to live a little. Financial security is important—but so is happiness. Conscious spending, especially on experiences and passions, is as valid as any SIP or mutual fund.

One Redditor summed it up best: “No one’s giving medals for dying with the biggest bank balance. Save wisely, spend intentionally, and live well.”

In a digital age where financial advice is just a scroll away, sometimes the best guidance isn’t from spreadsheets—but from shared stories.