Here are a few ideas to get you started on your payday plans. Credit: Getty

I get it. You just got paid and are ready to make some questionable financial decisions. 

I really hope youโ€™d read this article before spending that $150 on an avocado-shaped yoga mat, thinking it would motivate you to exercise (spoiler: it probably wonโ€™t). Or did you already buy that $300 skincare set because an influencer told you so? Iโ€™m sorry you are now left with 17 serums and existential dread.

Relax. We are here to help! Some things in life are actually worth spending money on. Here are five things that deserve your hard-earned money.

1. A good mattress โ€“ because you gotta sleep every day!

You know whatโ€™s a terrible investment? A cheap, lumpy mattress that destroys your spine and your will to live. If youโ€™ve ever woken up feeling like youโ€™ve time-traveled to your 80s, itโ€™s time to upgrade.

A high-quality mattress isnโ€™t just a purchaseโ€”itโ€™s an investment in your happiness, health and ability to function like a human being. Think about it: you spend roughly a third of your life sleeping. Thatโ€™s more time than you spend doing anything else.

Itโ€™s awesome because the better you sleep, the better you function. Your back will thank you profusely, and you will need fewer visits to the chiropractor. You will also feel well-rested and happier.

2. A great pair of shoes โ€“ because your feet are worth it

You can survive a bad haircut, an unfortunate outfit choice, or even questionable life decisions (we all have a few). But bad shoes? They will ruin your entire existence.

A pair of good running shoes, work boots, or everyday sneakers will make your life easier. Investing in a high-quality pair is non-negotiable. Your feet carry you everywhere, and the least you can do is not punish them with cheap, flimsy shoes that feel like torture devices.

Nothing beats comfort, better posture and longevity!

3. Noise-canceling headphones โ€“ ignore your problems like I ignore my snooze alarms

Good headphones are a great investment. Your ears will thank you! Credit: Getty

Do you enjoy peace and quiet? Do you live on Planet Earth, where people insist on talking loudly in public places? Then you need noise-canceling headphones.

With these in your ears, you can conquer the world. Block out the chaos of a crowded subway, a screaming baby on a plane, or your neighbor who thinks 7 AM is the perfect time to practice the tuba.

These will be an amazing addition to your life, helping you escape reality, focus better and great for travel.

4. A good coffee maker โ€“ because surviving without caffeine is nothing short of a nightmare

A coffee can make or break your day. Make sure your first sip is worth it! Credit: Getty

Those daily $6 coffees add up! 

A good coffee maker means having barista-level coffee at home without spending half your paycheck at fancy coffee shops. Plus, it spares you from the horror of office coffee, which often tastes like it was brewed in 1987โ€ฆ

This lifesaver will also save you money, let you choose the best coffee flavors and reduce the morning rush time.

5. Therapy โ€“ because the 21st century is getting out of hand

Your mental health is one of the most important possessions you can take care of! If you get regular oil changes for your car, go to the dentist and moisturize your skin, you can check in on your mental health too!

Therapy is like hiring a personal trainer for your emotions. Life is stressful, and sometimes sharing your problems with someone knowledgeable about the mind can help beyond your imagination.

It will keep you in a better mood, help you learn healthy coping methods, and stop you from trauma-dumping on your friends (they love you, but they also have their problems).

Spend wisely

Better sleep, comfortable feet, silence, caffeine, and therapy are always smart investments. So next time you swipe your card impulsively, ask yourself: Will this make my life easier, happier, or at least less painful?

Now, if youโ€™ll excuse me, I need to go take a nap on my comfortable mattress!

I cover education, housing, and politics in Houston for the Houston Defender Network as a Report for America corps member. I graduated with a master of science in journalism from the University of Southern...