How to buy happiness with money? 22-year-old with Rs 2 LPA salary and Rs 80K monthly savings gets advice from Reddit

Economic Times

2 days ago

A 22-year-old professional earning Rs 2 lakh per month shared on Reddit that after investing Rs 1 lakh through SIPs and covering expenses, he's left with Rs 80,000 that just sits idle in his savings account. Unsure whether to save more or spend on experiences, he asked the community for advice. Reddit users offered a wide range of suggestions — from traveling and investing in hobbies to diversifying investments and enjoying life while young. Many emphasized the importance of balance between saving for the future and living in the present.
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In an age where financial literacy and early investments dominate online discussions, a 22-year-old employee has caught the attention of Reddit with a dilemma that many young earners silently face — how to strike a balance between financial discipline and enjoying life. Despite earning Rs 2 lakh per month, and already contributing Rs 1 lakh to SIPs, he finds himself with Rs 80,000 leftover each month, untouched and sitting in his savings account.Turning to Reddit, he asked if spending that money would make sense — and whether money can truly buy happiness.In his post, the user explained that he was raised with a frugal mindset and is now earning well. Though his essential expenses are covered and investments are in place, he feels unsure about whether to enjoy the remaining amount guilt-free. 'Sometimes I feel since I have investments in place I should just spend on whatever I like but at the same time it doesn't make financial sense to splurge 80k a month,' he wrote.His question resonated with many. One user advised, 'Travel, go out, explore some activities on weekends,' emphasizing the importance of experiences over accumulation. Another reminded him, 'Ye jawaani fir ni aani,' urging him to enjoy his youth while he can.Some users offered more practical guidance, suggesting additional investments. 'You can put the excess money in SIP as well if it's collecting dust,' one comment read. Another offered a broader financial strategy: 'Get an NPS account, get a PPF or something similar… best is to have a qualified financial advisor to manage your portfolio.'Others warned about the risks of saving without purpose. A user reflected on his own early career, saying he saved a lot but now regrets not taking breaks or travelling when he had the chance. 'Money saved was good but now I regret… I worked tirelessly without leave… life is just not about bank statement and monotony.'Several shared personal choices that brought them happiness without guilt. One person said buying a bike and a gaming laptop helped him cope with loneliness. 'I just take leave from my job and go for a solo mountain trip. Helps me simply stay alive.' Another suggested hobby-based spending: 'Find out your hobbies… you'll be very happy.'There were also reminders to be mindful. 'Don't spend on anything which you don't like,' someone advised, sharing how people often regret impulsive purchases like expensive cameras or bikes that go unused.Underlying many comments was the deeper question: why are we working so hard if we never enjoy the rewards? The original poster seemed to echo this when he replied, 'I know this is the sensible thing to do but then I ask myself why I am even grinding this hard.'The responses showed a near-unanimous agreement: save wisely, but don't forget to live. Whether it's solo travel, investing in meaningful hobbies, or setting up a safety net for the future, the advice encouraged him to spend with intention — not guilt. As one commenter succinctly put it, 'Enjoy life a little. You won't take the money with you to the next life.'