Necessary Luxuries

Almost anything can be considered a luxury. Really, whatever is above the bare minimum to live is a luxury to some degree. But there is a certain level we consider modest living, and everything above that is a luxury.

In reality, though, some things are more important than others. People who only use a computer to browse websites and shop have no need to buy a $3000 machine. People whose career is 3D animation should get such a computer. They will be using it every day and will be more productive with the better tool. It may be a luxury in one sense, but it is a necessary luxury. 

Some luxuries are almost universally necessary. We sleep every day and it is our main way to recover and recharge; a great mattress is imperative. The same is true about shoes. We have to wear them and support our body weight. They should not hurt us. People who wear glasses should get great glasses. They are more critical than almost anything else in your day, even your shoes - don't cheap out on them. 

The thing to remind you hear is that nice does not always mean expensive. It means getting a good match. I tried out a $10,000 bed once. It was not nearly as pleasant as the $2,000 bed. My $1.50 pen is nicer than many $90 pens I've used. 

As a writer, you will theoretically be doing enough writing to warrant a necessary luxury. Get notebooks you like, pens and pencils you like, computer programs you like, keyboards you enjoy. There is no point cheaping out and then dealing with something that is not as enjoyable, let alone something that upsets you every single time you use it.