8 Big Purchases I Don't Regret (And Why)
These are the eight big purchases that have truly improved my life—saving me time, boosting my comfort, and making everyday tasks feel effortless.
- Alyana Aguja
- 4 min read
Growing up in a working-class family, every dollar counted. I was raised to believe that spending big money should be avoided at all costs. But over the years, I learned that some purchases—when carefully thought out—are actually investments in your quality of life. One of the first times this hit me was when Mary and I bought our modest family home. It felt like a stretch at the time, but looking back, it was one of the smartest decisions we ever made.
Maybe you’ve hesitated over big-ticket purchases, worried they might set you back. I’ve learned there’s a difference between impulsive spending and strategic investing. Today, I’ll share eight larger purchases I made that I’ve never regretted—and five you might want to consider making for yourself.
1. Standing Desk
TheStandingDesk from Unsplash
I thought it was a gimmick at first, but switching to a standing desk changed how I work. My posture improved, I have more energy throughout the day, and I no longer get that dreaded lower back pain. Plus, it makes me feel way more productive—there’s just something about standing that keeps me engaged.
2. High-Quality Mattress
Stephen Andrews from Unsplash
I once believed that all mattresses were created equal until I spent money on a luxury one. Suddenly, I was sleeping more soundly, waking up without aches, and even looking forward to going to bed. Considering we spend a third of our lives sleeping, this was hands-down one of my best buys.
3. Noise-Canceling Headphones
C D-X from Unsplash
The moment I used noise-canceling headphones for the first time, I felt like I accessed a cheat code for calm and concentration. If I’m on a flight, in a busy café, or simply need to focus, they make a small bubble of quiet. Music is deeper, audiobooks are more defined, and distractions disappear in a snap.
4. Dishwasher
Nathan Dumlao from Unsplash
I once believed dishwashers were a luxury, but now I don’t know how I ever managed without one. It saves me a minimum of 30 minutes a day, does away with the never-ending mountain of greasy dishes, and even takes less water to wash than doing it by hand. My kitchen is cleaner, and my sanity remains intact.
5. Quality Chef’s Knife
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An inexpensive knife turns cooking into drudgery, but a well-balanced, sharp knife turns it into fun. My premium chef’s knife glides through ingredients with ease, prep work is quicker and safer, and it makes cooking a pleasant experience rather than a frustrating one.
6. Laser Printer
Mahrous Houses from Unsplash
Inkjet printers are a rip-off—always running out of ink, smudging, and deteriorating. My laser printer prints quickly, never dies, and has never caused me a moment of trouble. It’s the sort of purchase that quietly facilitates life without craving attention.
7. E-Bike
Markus Spiske from Unsplash
An e-bike totally transformed the way I travel—it’s like having superhero powers on two wheels. I commute to work without perspiring, zip through traffic, and even look forward to my commute. It’s enjoyable, green, and costs me less gas.
8. Travel Experiences
Tom Barrett from Unsplash
Alright, not a “thing” exactly, but experiences are the best investment I’ve ever made. I’ve never felt guilty spending money on travel—each trip has provided me with new insights, memories that will last a lifetime, and tales to share. Stuff gets worn out, but experiences linger for eternity.
Looking back, these purchases brought lasting value—not just in the items themselves, but in the quality of life they provided. I didn’t make them lightly or without thought. Each one came after planning, saving, and deciding what truly mattered most to me and my family. They weren’t about showing off—they were about solving problems, creating memories, and improving everyday life. Here’s how you can approach big purchases wisely:
Prioritize needs that improve daily life: Our new kitchen appliances weren’t the cheapest, but cooking became easier and more enjoyable, and we saved money on energy bills.
Invest in your health: Buying a comfortable mattress may seem small, but better sleep helped me feel more energized and avoid back problems that would’ve cost more later.
Choose quality over quantity: We bought a durable, used car with good mileage instead of a flashy new model. It lasted for years and saved us repair costs.
Spend on family experiences: One of my favorite decisions was paying for a modest family vacation. The time together was priceless, and we still talk about it today.
Plan for long-term use: When I purchased quality tools for home projects, they paid for themselves in repairs and upgrades I was able to do myself over the years.
Big purchases don’t have to lead to regret if you plan wisely and focus on what truly enhances your life. Take your time, think it through, and you’ll feel good about where your money goes.