The Freedom Fund – How I Learned to Spend Without Guilt

November 11th, 2025

You know what I wanted about everything?

To spend my money without feeling guilty.

“Ooo, I could have put this in savings.”

“Ooo, I could have used this to pay down debt.”

“Ooo, I need so many things for the house.”

Goodness, all these thoughts and emotions, just for wanting to do something nice for myself.

I work hard, and like so many of us, I just wanted the ability to enjoy my hard-earned money without the mental tug-of-war. But guilt kept me in a loop, one month I’d deprive myself, the next I’d get fed up and spend out of frustration, just to prove I was in control.

I’ve been there, circled back, and revisited that place a few times.  

The Turning Point

In the beginning, I gave myself $50 a month.

Small, I know, but even that was a struggle because part of me kept thinking, this could go toward debt.

But I claimed it anyway.

That $50 was mine, no justification, no guilt, no permission needed.

It gave me back something I didn’t even realize I’d lost: my dignity and joy in handling my own money.

I’d buy something small like an ice cream cone, a new shirt, or treat myself to a nice lunch and when it was gone, it was gone, gilt free.

How I Made It Work

Each month, I’d take the cash out of the bank and split it between my purse and my little cash envelope. Some months I’d use the full amount, and other months, I’d let it roll over watching it quietly accumulate.

As our financial goals were met and our situation improved, the amount increased but the principle stayed the same.

To this day, my husband and I both give ourselves a stipend. He spends his on his simulation games or little tech upgrades. I use mine to have brunch with friends, take my boys out for a lunch date, or treat myself to something interesting when I’m out.

There are no boundaries, just the dollar amount I’ve set. No guilt. Just freedom.

And the best part?

It has no negative impact on the budget, and I always have cash on hand, which is a plus, especially for those unexpected “life moments” like teacher appreciation week, a spontaneous tea run, or a small community event.

What It Helped Heal

Another thing this practice helped with. Financial infidelity.

When you have your own guilt-free spending money, you don’t have to hide purchases or sneak in Amazon boxes before your spouse gets home. You don’t have to pretend you’re “not spending,” when you both agreed to cut back.

You simply buy what you can within your allotted amount and when your financial situation improves, you increase that amount together.

It’s not just about spending; it’s about trust, balance, and emotional peace with money.

The Lesson

Money management isn’t only about saving and paying bills, its also about creating room for joy.

Your financial plan should feel freeing, not suffocating.

So, this week, give yourself a little “Freedom Fund.” Even $25 or $50 a month can make you feel empowered and in control again.

Because peace with money isn’t about never spending, it’s about spending intentionally, without guilt.

💚 Keep your money Irie. 

About Petra-Ann Brown

Petra-Ann Brown is the founder of Brown Financial Solutions, LLC, a financial coaching practice that empowers individuals to take control of their financial lives. She is also the host of Island Money 365 podcast, where she shares inspiring immigrant stories and provides invaluable financial resources to the community.