Quote:
Originally Posted by ranchlandsselling
What you're forgetting on top of those good points is that someone like the above example likely gets off on being frugal. They get satisfaction from it. So, in some instances it doesn't take "extraordinarily strong self-discipline". Just like the lentil-eating-triathlete you mentioned, who actually enjoys doing that sport and competing. And there's always the satisfaction of a drive-by humblebrag that likely provides additional satisfaction.
|
That's definitely a real thing. If you've ever read the Mr Money Moustache blog, the guy is talking about how much satisfaction he's getting from biking to pick up his groceries to save $0.75 in gas. That only works long term if you're enjoying it.
Personally, I think frugality makes sense, but within reason. Also, I think it makes sense to prioritize. We love travel, but you can't afford everything. So my wife and I have one vehicle, a 2008 (Korean make). The cost of acquiring an additional vehicle, insurance, registration, and gas easily pays for one nice trip per year.
Other people have different priorities. If you're a car guy/gal, great. Maybe you enjoy that instead of travel. Or maybe you bought a smaller house so you can afford nice cars, or whatever.
The trick is to live within your means, which for the vast majority of people is going to mean not having everything.