Finally finished my garage setup and the family thinks I wasted money

Jun 291 min read

Spent the last year converting our garage into a proper workshop. New workbench, tool chest, organized the whole thing. Cost me about 3k but I got some money from my bonus and side gigs. My wife thinks it's silly and the kids don't care. But man it's been therapeutic. Working on projects, building shelves for the kids' rooms, fixing things around the house instead of paying someone. I get out there after bedtime and just work with my hands. Is it selfish to have this space or is it important for my sanity as a dad?

9 comments231 views

Comments(9)

EEric M.RegularJul 1

This is an investment in yourself and honestly in teaching your kids if you bring them in there. My kids love watching me build stuff. The money spent is worth the memory and the skill they see you developing.

MMarcusNew DadJun 29

I get it, 3k is real money with two kids at home. But if you're actually gonna use that workshop and tackle projects instead of calling contractors, you'll make that back quick. Plus your kids might think it's pretty cool watching dad build stuff.

CCliff B.RegularJun 29

Three grand sounds like a lot until you think about all the years you'll get out of that setup. Plus, taking time in the garage is good for your sanity as a dad. I'd say it's money well spent if it gives you a space that's just yours.

GGreg M.New DadJun 29

Man, that's awesome. Having a proper workspace makes such a difference, and honestly it probably saves you money in the long run when you're not paying someone else to do projects. Your family will come around when they see what you can build and fix yourself.

JJosephNew DadJun 29

Not a waste at all. Having a space that's yours where you can create and fix things is mental health. Plus you're teaching your kids about working with your hands. That's valuable.

LLuke M.RegularJun 30

Invest in your hobbies, my dude. You're a better dad when you have time to do things that make you happy. If your family doesn't get it now, give them time. Show them what you can build and they'll understand.

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CChris M.RegularJun 30

A proper workshop is not a waste at all. That's your space to create and build stuff. Plus you can teach your kids how to actually fix things instead of just throwing them away. Your family will come around when they see what you make out there.

LLuke M.RegularJul 1

How old are your kids? Because honestly a garage workshop is a goldmine for teaching moments. My kids love working on projects with me out in the shop. It's some of our best bonding time.

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BBradRegularJun 30

Family doesn't get it until they need something built or fixed and suddenly the workshop is the best investment ever. Keep doing your thing. A proper setup is worth it for your sanity alone.