Today, I did something I rarely let myself do—I indulged in a trip to the beauty salon! ‍♀️✨ I’m usually the type who sticks to the essentials, finding it hard to justify anything that feels like “extra” spending on myself. But today, I let that go, deciding it was time for a little treat. Sitting in that chair, watching strands of hair fall as the stylist worked her magic, I could feel the weight lifting off my shoulders, almost as if each snip brought me closer to a refreshed, renewed version of myself.

After the cut, I went for the full works—nails, brows, a soothing facial. By the time I left, I felt transformed, as though I’d shed more than just a few inches of hair. My reflection showed a woman who seemed lighter, brighter, more relaxed. The simple act of sitting back and letting someone else take care of me for a while was surprisingly rejuvenating. I walked out of the salon feeling like a new woman, as though I’d hit some kind of reset button on life.

But as I got home and took a peek at the receipt, that familiar pang of guilt crept in. I’m usually so cautious about spending—careful to save, always thinking of practical needs. A part of me couldn’t help but wonder, Was it really worth it? Did I have to spend so much? But looking in the mirror, I felt that maybe, just maybe, the indulgence was worth every cent. Sometimes, we need these little moments of luxury, a reminder to treat ourselves with the same care we give to others.

So yes, I splurged, and while a tiny part of me still feels guilty, I’m choosing to embrace it as a reminder that self-care isn’t something to feel bad about. A refreshed spirit, after all, is priceless. Do you ever feel the same way? Or am I the only one who wrestles with the cost of a little pampering?