Do you overspend on luxury items as a nurse?

[Neywel120]

When you went into the nursing profession and received your first salaried job, did it make you want to spend more and buy luxury cars, electronics ,etc?

I ask this because I'm pretty frugal, but when I see a car or new gadget that I really really like the first thing that comes to my mind is "I'm going to get that when I become a nurse". Did any of you nurses felt like that with your salary where you just have to buy, buy, and buy because you can afford it but you don't need it?

[Crystal-Wings, LVN]

I've always worked in private duty which doesn't pay much to begin with, so no I've never been tempted to over spend. Have I bought crap I don't need? Sure. Who hasn't?

[RJ 55]

I feel grateful that I can pay my bills. When I started working as a RN, my husband I bought a house that we got a great deal on because it was in foreclosure. Many of my friends bought newer homes for 100s k thousands more. My home isn't fancy but you can't beat the location. I don't stress about providing my kids with things they need. Such as braces and medical care. I can afford to give them extracurricular activities and we go on family trips at least twice a year. My husband and I both work. He works in sales and we both make pretty good money. Our vehicles aren't "luxury" items but they are relatively new and reliable. We are able to eat out without feeling stress or guilt. A large amount of ou ur money goes to retirement as we don't want to be a burden on our children. The second big amount goes to our children's college funds. Many nurses that I work with have luxury vehicles because that is what they want to spend their money on. Everyone has different priorities. I work in the ER on nights. My job is so physically and mentally exhausting that I plan my finances accordingly. It takes one bad night to produce an injury, whether by assault or just repetitive movements to put a nurse out of commission. I'm extremely careful bit realistic. My finances reflect that and gives me a cushion. Like every good nurse, I like to think I'm thinking three steps ahead.