Alas this is a symptom of GAS. Gear Acquisition Syndrome. Quite common in diving circles and dangerous to your wallet and partner. It's alarming how equipment breeds when left aloneDef get your cert. You don't need a buddy to go on scuba trips, plenty of other solo folks or just follow the guide. It's not unusual at all.
I bought gear after my first trip. My thought process was that accidents are usually a chain of events, and quality gear can eliminate one link. Now, most rental gear is fine and I probably just used this logic to justify buying gear I already wanted, but if you need an excuse..