The Psychological Trap That Could Quietly Kill Your Retirement by Alix Langone What’s the first thing you did the last time you got a raise? If it involved buying a designer handbag or an $800 Lego set, you may want to think twice the next time you feel entitled to splurge after a paycheck bump. When starting a higher-paying job or receiving a bonus, it’s only natural to want to reward yourself for working hard.