Tsuma Ni Damatte Sokubaikai Ni Ikun Ja Nakatta [portable]

Have you ever hidden a hobby expense from a partner? Share your story (or your spouse’s reaction) in the comments – anonymously, if you value your marriage.

The wife might still say no. She might still roll her eyes. But she would not feel betrayed. For balance, let’s examine the positive case. There is a lesser-known but equally powerful Japanese phrase that floats around hobbyist communities: “Tsuma ni soudan shite sokubaikai ni itta – kekkou tanoshikatta” (I consulted my wife and went to the convention – it was pretty fun). tsuma ni damatte sokubaikai ni ikun ja nakatta

If the same husband had said, “There is a convention next Saturday. I’d like to go. My budget is 10,000 yen. I will not buy anything that doesn’t fit in this backpack. Would you like to come?” – the outcome would be vastly different. Have you ever hidden a hobby expense from a partner