The True Cost of Living My Best Life: A Concert-Goer’s Confession
As someone who loves music, especially live music, I’ve always known that my concert attendance habit comes with a price tag. But just how much was I willing to pay for the thrill of seeing my favorite artists perform live?
A Year of Music Madness
In 2018, I attended an impressive 55 events, including concerts, book talks, comedy shows, and even a touring drag show. While I’ve always been open about my love for live music, I’ve never really stopped to think about the financial impact of my hobby. That was until I started to feel the weight of my impulsive spending and FOMO (fear of missing out).
The Bottom Line
After digging through my bank statements, Venmo transactions, and venue websites, I calculated the total cost of my concert-going habit. The grand total? A staggering $3,550. Broken down, that’s:
- $2,037 on tickets
- ~$800 on travel (flights, buses, trains, and accommodations)
- ~$415 on merchandise (T-shirts, posters, and other memorabilia)
- ~$300 on food and drink
The Reality Check
Seeing the total amount in black and white was a sobering experience. I realized that my concert-going habit was not only expensive but also unsustainable in the long run. I had to confront the fact that I was spending more than I should on entertainment, and that my impulsive decisions were taking a toll on my finances.
The Value of Memories
But as I reflected on the experiences I had, I realized that the cost was worth it. I got to see my favorite artists perform live, meet new people, and create unforgettable memories. Concerts have become my safe space, where I can let go of my worries and simply enjoy the music.
A Lesson in Balance
While I don’t plan to give up my concert-going habit anytime soon, I do recognize the need for balance. I need to be more mindful of my spending, prioritize my financial goals, and find ways to make my hobby more sustainable.
The Takeaway
In the end, it’s not about the cost; it’s about the value I place on the experiences and memories I create. As I look to the future, I’ll strive to find a balance between living my best life and living within my means.
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