7 Ways to Spoil Yourself on a Budget

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Cheap vodka, DIY haircuts and thrift store shopping were veritable treats in college, but in your forties, your standards have leveled out a bit. Just because your bank account and your tastes have improved since your early 20s, doesn't mean you've got the money to indulge whenever you want. With mortgage payments, grown (but still partially dependent) kids, and saving for retirement, you've still got to budget every month. Here are 7 simple ways to spoil yourself without sabotaging your savings or your future.

1. Sleep in: Sleeping in costs nothing if you do it on a weekend. And while it sounds like a given, sleeping late on a Saturday isn't always possible when you have chores, errands and meetings to attend. The next time you have a busy Saturday planned, opt out of one or two commitments for the sake of getting some extra sleep.

2. Take care of what you've got: A $100+ hair cut would certainly do wonders for your overall look, but a quality hair treatment mask will also keep your hair looking shiny, healthy and young. You can buy or make your own to keep you feeling and looking fresh in between professional appointments.

3. Try out an exercise class: A monthly gym membership can be expensive, but many dance and yoga studios offer one-class prices. When you're tired of your running or workout DVD routine, make some room in your budget for a single class that will freshen up your ritual and introduce you to new people.

4. Buy a decent bottle of wine: Decent bottles of wine don't actually cost that much. Mike Steinberger from Slate lists his favorites that are just $15 and under. Invite a friend or date over for a glass or two instead of going out. You'll save double to triple the amount but still get to taste something good.

5. Share good news: Women often shrug off their own accomplishments but praise other's good fortune or notable deeds. The next time you receive an award, a raise, or just a compliment, share the good news with a friend to really celebrate.

6. Take a weekday off, just because: If your boss is strict, you can offer to come in on a Saturday to make up the time. Taking a weekday off to go to a movie, sleep in, or just watch TV when everyone else is at the office feels super indulgent.

7. Turn down an invitation: If you lead a busy life and are always headed to events, parties, drink dates and dinners because you have to, pick one invitation every once in a while to turn down. Think of it like playing hooky from school: you can go home and veg or do something that you'd rather do.