I wouldn't advocate someone spending money they don't have. I'm assuming they have enough savings for an emergency day. What I'm saying is a $5000 bicycle or a nice vacation may be worth the added expense of interest. I'm also assuming people are realistic about their expectations - you know pretty accurately what your income tax refund is, if you're in sales you know what your commisions will be, if your company reimburses expenses you know what they come to, etc. Those things should have 90%+ probability as opposed to the 10% chance on the next promotion.