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12 Expenses That Prove You’ve “Made It”

From monthly massages to house cleaners, these expenses show you've reached a level of financial success.

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Updated Sept. 24, 2024
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Reaching a certain level of financial security can be incredibly rewarding. Whether it’s being able to afford luxuries that were once out of reach or simply feeling comfortable where you stand financially, these expenses reflect the progress you've made.

While not everyone equates wealth with material possessions, certain expenses do suggest a level of financial stability and freedom. Let’s explore some of these items that are common indicators of having “made it.”

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Monthly massages

xreflex/Adobe woman relaxing in the oil spa massage in salon

Treating yourself to a monthly massage is often seen as a luxury that signifies you’ve made some wealthy money moves

This expense not only indicates financial well-being but also shows a commitment to self-care and relaxation, essential for maintaining a balanced lifestyle.

Being able to budget for this regular indulgence signifies that you can afford to prioritize health and wellness, proving you've achieved a significant level of comfort.

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House cleaner

Konstantin Yuganov/Adobe woman holding bucket of cleaning supplies

Hiring a house cleaner is a classic sign you've reached a certain level of affluence. This service not only saves you time but also allows you to enjoy a clean and organized living space without having to lift a finger.

Having the freedom to allocate funds for such services shows that you have the financial capacity to outsource tasks, allowing you to focus on more important aspects of life.

Food subscription box service

Monkey Business/Adobe woman unpacks food delivery

Food subscription box services like Blue Apron or HelloFresh provide convenience and variety, delivering pre-portioned ingredients and recipes right to your doorstep.

This service is often more expensive than traditional grocery shopping, making it a luxury for those who can afford it. This expense reflects a desire for convenience and a willingness to invest in quality meals without the hassle of meal planning and shopping.

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Laundry service

H_Ko/Adobe receptionist holds clean suit

Outsourcing your laundry is another sign of financial success. Whether you drop off your clothes at a laundromat or have a service pick them up, this convenience comes at a cost. 

Utilizing laundry services highlights that you've reached a point where you can focus on more meaningful activities, showing a shift toward valuing time as much as money.

Multiple premium streaming plans

ymgerman/Adobe hand browsing streaming services using remote

Subscribing to multiple premium streaming plans, such as Netflix or Spotify, indicates you’ve made it financially. These plans offer additional benefits like higher-quality streaming, ad-free experiences, and multiple-user access.

While basic plans are available, opting for premium services suggests a preference for quality and a willingness to pay for the best entertainment experience.

Ordering groceries online instead of shopping in person

ronstik/Adobe woman accepting groceries box from delivery man at home

The option to order groceries online rather than shopping in person is a sign of both financial and time flexibility. 

While traditional grocery shopping is often seen as a chore, services like Instacart or Amazon Fresh provide the convenience of having groceries delivered right to your door.

This service usually comes with additional fees for delivery and service charges, indicating that you're willing to pay for time-saving conveniences.

Personalized fitness coaching

milanmarkovic78/Adobe male fitness trainer training woman to lift heavy weights at gym

Having a personal trainer or fitness coach is a luxury that many aspire to, as it often signifies disposable income for personalized health and wellness. 

This expense reflects not only a dedication to personal well-being but also the financial means to pursue tailored fitness regimens.

Engaging a personal trainer demonstrates your ability to invest in your health proactively, a hallmark of financial stability.

Specialty coffee subscriptions

Flamingo Images/Adobe senior man reading a newspaper

A subscription to a specialty coffee service is an indulgence that highlights a refined taste and the means to support it. Services that deliver high-quality coffee beans or exotic blends directly to your home are often pricier than simply buying coffee at the store.

Traveling in business or first class

kelvn/Adobe businessman sleeps in airplane

Choosing to fly business or first class instead of economy is a significant indicator that you’ve achieved financial success. These tickets can cost several times more than economy class fares, reflecting your ability to prioritize comfort and luxury while traveling.

Enjoying the enhanced amenities, priority boarding, and superior service with these classes showcases your willingness to invest in an elevated travel experience.

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Owning a vacation home

goodluz/Adobe happy mature couple standing on terrace in log cabin somewhere in woods

Owning a second home for vacations is perhaps one of the most definitive signs of having "made it." 

This investment not only requires substantial financial resources but also indicates an ongoing ability to maintain additional property expenses, such as upkeep and property taxes.

A vacation home provides a personal retreat and underscores your success in achieving a lifestyle many only dream of.

Regular dining at high-end restaurants

Dan Dalton/KOTO/Adobe Smiling waiter serving fancy dishes to mature couple

Frequently dining at upscale restaurants is a surefire sign of financial prosperity. High-end dining experiences come with a price tag that often includes gourmet meals, fine wines, and exceptional service. 

Spending $100 or more per meal, often multiple times a month, highlights your ability to indulge in culinary delights without financial strain.

High-quality home entertainment systems

haizon/Adobe  watching a soccer on tv

Investing in state-of-the-art home entertainment systems reflects a commitment to enjoying high-quality leisure activities in the comfort of your home. 

Whether it’s a high-definition sound system, a large-screen television, or a home theater setup, these purchases are typically associated with those with disposable income to spend on luxury.

Bottom line

littlewolf1989/Adobe senior couple with golf gear at club

Each of these expenditures is more than just a monetary outlay; they’re a reflection of the financial security you've built.

As you enjoy these financial achievements, it's important to keep building wealth to sustain and enhance your lifestyle over time. Ultimately, it’s about what truly matters to you and how you enjoy your success.

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