by Starla Ross

Created on: March 04, 2008   Last Updated: January 24, 2009

Women always seem to put everyone's needs before their own. And money is no exception. After the utility bills are paid and the mortgage payment is handed over to the bank, a lot of women feel a flicker of guilt in spending money on themselves.

How can you find the "me" in your money? Be sure to set aside a little from your weekly budget, just for yourself.

An occasional indulgence does not need to put your checkbook in the red. A little pampering can go a long way in helping you take a break from everyday stress and help you find a few moments of peace in your life.

You can put on your best-loved jeans and your most comfortable sweater and head to your favorite coffee shop. Order the special of the day and lounge on the sofa with a good book or magazine. Savor the smell of coffee in the air, and the sound of quiet chit-chat around the corner. If you're feeling particularly indulgent, splurge on that piece of chocolate cake behind the counter.

Or create your own spa evening. Send the rest of your household to bed. Draw a long, hot bath and light some candles. Soak with your favorite bubble bath or scented soaps. Paint your nails, listen to your favorite CD, and enjoy a glass of wine. When you're done, put on your warmest, fluffiest bathrobe and your softest pajamas.

One of the best ways to indulge your creative side is to document your life through the art of journaling. Buy a journal and spend your quiet moments reflecting on anything that comes to mind. Don't just purchase any journal though. Find the perfect journal for you. It may be the one with soft red roses on the front, or it may be the dark leather journal with the tissue-thin pages. Whichever journal you choose, make sure it's one you will love and that will truly merit the stories of your life.

If it's a nice day, consider a picnic in the park. Stop by your favorite gourmet sandwich shop and pick up a healthy lunch. Head to the local park. Spread a blanket on the ground or find a bench. Watch the ducks. Look at the people passing by you. Take time to just bask in a sunny afternoon.

Visit a museum by yourself. Look at all the exhibits you passed by quickly before. Read the information at each exhibit and enjoy learning something new.

If you want to pamper yourself while doing something good for your body, take a yoga class. The quietness and focus of the class will de-stress you from your day. It's not always necessary to sign up for a series of classes. Many places will allow yoga participants to sign up for only one class at a minimal cost.

Even on a tight budget, it is possible to find ways to spend a little money on yourself. After all, sometimes the best things come in the smallest packages.

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