Something funny happened today.

I took my car (2016 Toyota Prius, Eco) in for servicing, and was given a loaner car to use for the time being. The loaner was a Toyota Corolla – pretty decent car. I was super grateful to have the loaner, but it definitely felt significantly different from my Prius and took some getting use to. The funny part is that I freaked out a bit when I couldn’t figure out how to get the keys out of the ignition! (My car is a Push to Start). To my defense, you had to jiggle and push the keys inward before pulling them out… that’s what she said. (That joke’s not old yet? Haha).

I took a funny video of myself, giggling while recapping the mishap, and sent it to a few of my friends. I ended the video with, “I’m so spoiled.”

I didn’t think much about saying those words until a friend jokingly agreed with me about being spoiled, and I felt defensive.

The word “spoiled” naturally has a negative connotation. It’s often used to describe rich or well-off people (especially children) who have been fortunate enough to have everything they could ever want or need. Plain and straight, it describes people who have never had to struggle.

Now, I’m not going to get into all the details of my past. (I doubt anyone wants to read a sob story, ha). But I will sincerely say that I’ve paid my dues over the years to get to where I am now.

There’s a difference when you have nice things given to you, and when you earn those nice things.

I worked damn hard so that I could SPOIL MYSELF.

I put in the work to buy my “nice” car. (No one talks about the 24 years I went without a car – riding public transportation to school/work & constantly having to ask people for rides).

I put in the work to get my Master’s degree. (No one mentions the the 14 months that I secluded myself from my friends and family, determined to get those straight A’s – and that I paid for school on my own).

I damn near waited a lifetime to be the first person in my company to pioneer my position. I EARNED that 76% raise. (Others may perceive it as if I was just handed this position. I don’t take this opportunity lightly – I am beyond grateful).

I’m extremely proud of myself.

So yeah, I guess you can call me spoiled. Because well, I spoil myself.

Why? I earned it! 😉