This piece is part of my 2016–2026 archive migration. Some original formatting, content, and external links may be missing, changed, or not be optimized.
What you’re sacrificing in return for the delectable easy bite
Invest the same amount of money in the stock market, and you might earn an average rate of return of 10%. Invest your money in more aggressive investments that offer you 20–30% returns, and you will earn over $1,000.
Some people spend close to $500-$1,000 each month eating out because they hate cooking. This is not a problem if you can afford it (except for your health). But many people can’t afford this costly habit. There is also a high chance many people are investing more in their dining experiences than their financial portfolios.
America has primed its citizens for convenience. We love the quick, easy, and tasty bite, but it comes at a cost to our wallets and health.
How Often Should You Dine Out?
The experience of eating out is something else – especially when the food is beyond fabulous, but how often should we really be eating out?
It depends.
Some people can afford to throw away $100 a week to eat out while staying on track with their investment goals, paying down debts, and managing other financial endeavors. Others would veer off track, spending $100 a week on dining out.
I knew a couple that ate out almost daily, but both were up to their necks with debt, behind on their bills, living paycheck to paycheck, and had no savings or investments stocked away. Eating out is not the best move for them – even if they’re practicing the YOLO mentality. It’s not worth it.
If I’m Not Eating Out, Then What?
That puts you in the grocery line with the rest of the folks. But you need to be careful here, too. With strategic marketing, grocery stores know how to cop every dime from your pocket. They will try to tempt your store visit every step of the way, which is why you need to go grocery shopping with three things:
A budget
A full stomach
A strict list of items
Avoid buying too much stuff because Americans have another problem: wasting food. If you’re not going to eat it, don’t buy it. If you’re trying to force yourself to eat healthily, but know you won’t eat it, don’t buy it. Start small, start focused, and expand from there.
Remember your budget; the most challenging part of grocery shopping is sticking to the budget. It’s so easy to veer off track with all of a grocery store’s options. Over time, it will get easier to stick to the budget and the initial grocery lists you create. It’s all for a positive cause that will ensure you stay on track and maintain a healthy financial status.
This content is for informational purposes only — not professional advice. Consult a qualified professional before making any major decisions.