The average tax refund is around $3,000; that’s a nice chunk of change! However, it’s a dilemma every year for many folks. Should you invest it? Should you enjoy it?

While there are several good ideas on how to put that money to use, let’s look at several things that it’s best to avoid:

5. Use the money to fuel an unsustainable lifestyle. 

If you’re desperate for your refund so you can get caught up on your bills, that’s a sign that you’re currently spending more than you makes on a lifestyle you can’t afford. Resolve that you’ll get your financial life under control so you don’t have to spend next year’s refund on your bills.

A tax refund is a great opportunity to strengthen your financial life.

In the future, when you look back on your choice, spending the money on something meaningless or something that creates more debt usually makes you feel as if you wasted it. Consider your options carefully so you can make a decision that gives you pleasure later on as well as right now.