I'm Embarrassed To Live Below My Means!

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[@derekhayter4879]

Rather look poor with good money in my bank account than to look rich but struggling to pay bills.

[@stolensilver5811]

Yep me too

[@Ldj8000]

BIG HAT🎩 no cattle...

[@ralphholiman7401]

My wife was a career bank employee. The two kinds of people she found amusing, were the people who acted and looked rich with $150 in their accounts and the people who looked and acted poor with $150,000 in their accounts.

[@vickieclark5931]

Same here. I don't have all the cool gadgets, but I have money left over every month. That is what makes me sleep well at night.

[@reese85]

@@ralphholiman7401that’s cool and in all but it’s one thing to look poor and have some money in the bank vs living poor to have money in the bank. I’m not trying to live poor just to say I have money in the bank doin nothing with it

[@everydy]

It's been such a huge blessing understanding that other people's opinions don't pay my bills 😂

[@jaybah836]

To the tee

[@stevenporter863]

If they don't pay the bills they don't get a say.

[@evelynherrera-gonzalez1474]

🤣

[@costco_pizza]

And exactly what kind of life is it to live in a small apartment and drive a used Honda all day? That is not a proper way to live your life. Get the house and car that tells the world you are a somebody, not a nobody.

[@andreamiller6200]

I was going to comment to say EXACTLY what you did but you said the full stop sentence. I do not have an inner voice that makes me question anything anybody may happen to say regarding my way of life. I had plenty of chance to put this to the direct test, as I drove my Toyota Tercel for 23 years, parking it with pride in the doctors' parking lot (I am a physician who went to medical school at age 38 so had to live frugally to making that happen). It generated a lot of talk and quips but it just made me prouder that I lived by my values and budget, and I noticed a surprising amount of envy at my freedom. To this day I still do not live outwardly lavishly because I don't need nor want to, and I am immune to the comments of others about living below my means.

[@commonsenseisntcommon1776]

I stopped caring what people think of me years ago. If you arent paying my bills, why should I care what you think?

[@angel-ij4xv]

the exactly well said

[@schrodingerssquirrel6973]

Lions don't worry about the opinions of sheep.

[@mattschmitt9924]

I tell people, "what you eat doesn't make me poop."

[@fernleafmedia]

You should definitely care what I think because I'm cool like ice.

[@anthonyfaucy2761]

I wish I never cared what others think especially when I was younger. You realise just how ignorant and egotistical people are in society as you grow up

[@PaddyFullyRandom]

If your broke friends are making fun of your financial plan, you are right on track. - That is just pure gold.

[@YoPhocFays]

I find it a badge of honor living below my means. Someone criticizes me, I smile and move on. Deep inside, my answer is, "at least i'm not up to my ears in debt"

[@Cookieboy70]

Smile, lift that nose up, and love the smell of your own farts. Beautifully pretentious, very nice.

[@tonytoni1150]

Like our teachers used to tell us: “Keep your eyes 👀 on your own paper.”

[@wewhoareabouttodiesaluteyo9303]

@@tonytoni1150 I do that and I get a lower score than pawning off answers from someone else. It is almost as shifty as a cop stating "If you tell me you have something illegal, I will not arrest you." You tell them and they arrest you. If you want to get ahead in life, you have to be as honest as possible, but know when you need to leverage.

[@karlabritfeld7104]

Me neither

[@nervotica7991]

They criticise you, because they KNOW you have money, but act like a pauper. Grow up and start blessing people. Normal people detest folks like you.

[@floridahomesteader7983]

My husband took a week of “vacation” last week and we spent the time just sleeping in, hanging out, and getting caught up on tasks around the house. Everyone seems so shocked that we didn’t go on a “real” vacation. We love being at home and don’t feel the need to “escape”.

[@lilianab4756]

I get this!😊

[@alinatamashevich3354]

Staycation for the win

[@bmcdonald7303]

This actually sounds lovely and comfortable.

[@lesterparker1594]

Haha sounds like my wife and I

[@britneyog9537]

We've done that! My kind of people!

[@wtk6069]

Caring what others think is a worse problem for Americans than even their debt.

[@mmp495]

This is why over 50% of America is in cc debt. They are always comparing themselves with ppl around them and are undeciplined.

[@LittleMopeHead]

Keeping up with the Joneses....and comparing with others on social media. Big mental issues in the next decade.

[@anthonyfaucy2761]

Thats how the government wants it. People in debt are easier to control

[@John3.36]

There is a balance, because in order to live you will have to carry about what other people think. There are also times when you disregard what other people think.

[@LoveLife-oo9cz]

That's why I stopped caring about what people think. I gave a brand new rice cooker to the in law and she threw away in trash. After that, no free stuffs from me and they got mad. Stupid people.

[@darylfoster7944]

We spend money that we do not have, on things we do not need, to impress people who do not care.

[@jaywalk6628]

Somebody makes fun of our twenty-year-old vehicles and I take it as a compliment, I hope they speak up this week so I can tell them that our mortgage balance is $834.37. Thanks Dave.

[@jenniferspisak]

Great work

[@Mujcanal]

Congrats ! great strategy.

[@alleykeosheyan4779]

Hubby drives a 1985 RamCharger, I drive a 1993 Dodge pickup, and an 06 Chevy Monte Carlo is our "town car." All paid for. TV came from a pawn shop, as did the computer I type this on. Both of us work just part-time and have a couple of side hustles, but we have enough to cover the bills, take the occasional vacation, put money aside, and give to those in need. We're not as far as you guys are with paying down our mortgage, but we will get there!

[@llkit1]

Congrats man that's freaking awesome. I hope to be in ur shoes someday!

[@michaelduck1644]

@@alleykeosheyan4779Leep it up! God has blessed you! Praise God!

[@r.durante528]

It’s a blessing to live below your means. It gives you greater opportunities to give to others who truly are in need.

[@vickieclark5931]

Yeah, there's no way to get ahead if you live at or above your means. Living below your means is how you become comfortable or even in many cases, wealthy.

[@whatever3041]

Durante, that is such a nice thought

[@willelliott5052]

Indeed, frugality is a virtue. Hardly anyone who cannot control their spending on themselves is truly a kind person.

[@anthonyfaucy2761]

Lol nope. Its about looking out for number 1 and ones own family. People wouldn't help you so why help others?

[@supershrpy]

That's not a blessing, that's called a DECISION. Hello

[@iomis2001]

I live in a small one bedroom house I own. I am 43 and sometimes the people who judge me are living in a large home they can hardly afford or are paying high rent to live somewhere. Yeah my 450 sq feet house is small, but I own it and I have money left over. I could have gotten a bigger home and be struggling, but why?

[@ykook7000]

Why would a single person buy a big house anyway just more effort and waste of money to maintain and clean it....common sense

[@iomis2001]

@@ykook7000 People buy big things for status. As if that matters.

[@sblijheid]

Lower property taxes too.

[@jameywallace5133]

You are the goat! I aspire to be in that position soon

[@lolwtnick4362]

ugh cleaning a huge place gives me nightmares lol

[@Youdontneedtoknowmyname3-iu1vk]

I have said before " the day you pay my bills is the day I'll give a damn what you think" after that people fix their face😂

[@sebastianplatt6815]

🤣🤣🤣

[@tspencer661]

👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽 Well said.

[@ykook7000]

💯

[@sblijheid]

I just tell them that it is my business and I'm the one minding it if someone is dumb enough to say something. No one who really knows me says anything.

[@markg999]

Living below your means is how you get ahead. It's not what you make but what you put aside.

[@reese85]

It’s also partly what you make cuz how else would you be able to put money aside

[@fatimamanneh9432]

@@reese85 his point was most people who make 250k a year are broke because they buy things they don’t need someone can make 50k a year & have more money saved

[@kimdavis5403]

Slam dunk!

[@reese85]

@@fatimamanneh9432 I get that but my point is. You can’t say it’s not about what you make cuz that’s absolutely not true

[@markg999]

@@reese85 True i mean I think it's sort of obvious if your making a low income it will be hard to get ahead. Most people struggle with spending not income issues.

[@ColleenMarble]

I love living below my means. But the comments are ridiculous. I remember when I got engaged, I was so happy with my ring, and the first comment one lady made upon seeing it is, "ooh, and there's room so you can upgrade the center stone to a bigger one someday!" 30 years later, I haven't forgotten how focused she was on the size of the stone rather than my happiness. I vowed then and still vow to never do that to someone else and to never live a life designed just for the opinions of others.

[@linuxsurfer2002]

"I like the size of this stone just the way it is"

[@dolphinbear661]

I got married without an engagement ring. We were broke, but in love. Years later I got the dainty, precious 1930's band with tiny diamonds his grandpa had given his grandma when they were broke & in love at the outbreak of WW11. I will never need another ring.

[@davidgerke7150]

I lived in a pretty small house for 3 years. I loved how cheap it was and how easy it was to clean and maintain. When someone would comment on how small it was, I'd just reply "Yeah, thanks!!"

[@kingberry100]

Cheap stuff is better than expensive stuff

[@Dranach01]

Was once told by an acquaintance, “ You’re always driving those older cars” , he had just gotten a new car. Just before I could say anything someone else said “at least he doesn’t owe it to anyone”😁. No mortgage and I’m happy with my 2014 Paid for Chevy Cruze.

[@billmelater6470]

"I didn't buy it for you". Simple as that.

[@MinkieWinkle]

Too Embarrassed to live below your means? How about start being Embarrassed about living a life of debt and never amounting to anything

[@justinebailey5333]

Right

[@mmp495]

💯

[@MrNiceGuy500]

It’s interesting to see how people treat you when you live far below your means. The genuine people will treat you right.

[@aolvaar8792]

You make $360K/yr, why are you living in the Hood, taking a $100K house away from Poor folks?

[@karenk2409]

Your friends are your friends because of who you are, not what you have. If that's not true, they are NOT your friends. Find new friends.

[@finanzferdinand9874]

NEVER care about what others think. And get that aunt out of your life.

[@mmp495]

😂😂😂

[@jasontaylor8283]

not even her aunt, it was the roomates. Not sure why she even cares what that person thinks

[@karenk2409]

I love, love, love growing old with no debt, a paid off home, and living below my means. I spend money on things that enhance my life without a second thought, my credit rating is superb, and I couldn't care less what anyone else thinks (who entitled them to even have an opinion? You have to wonder why someone is obsessed with judging someone else's life). I start every single day with a prayer thanking God for peace. You can't control many things in your life, but you can control your finances.

[@cathyosullivan718]

I never understand why some people care what other people are wearing, what they’re driving , where they’re living. People need to focus on themselves!

[@aolvaar8792]

Without a mirror, you don't know what you look like.

[@mmp495]

You know what looks and feels great? Being debt free. 😊 💰 🤑 👌

[@bigcahuna42366]

I'm proud that I don't understand how bankruptcy, payday loans, cash advances on C/Cs, overdraft fees, variable rate mortgages, HELOC loans, car leases, buy now pay later programs, whole life insurance, etc work. Never used them and it brings me incredible peace and lower blood pressure readings.

[@finanzferdinand9874]

I drive a +10yr old car and really don't give a hoot. Its what you value that matters. Some people value a nice car, some people see it as a complete waste of money.

[@michelejohnson6459]

My mother hated my 25 year old toyota because we were debt free including house.I told her this is a problem a check from her could solve!😂😅

[@dr_pinna543]

In 2019 I was embarrassed by my 2006 Mazda 3 when my student intern had a nicer car. I had paid it off within 3 years so it was almost 10 years with no car payment. I used the same excuses past callers have made to justify buying a new car (safety, no Bluetooth, no power windows/locks, manual transmission). I've regretted having a car payment the last 4 years. 2 more months until I pay it off and I don't plan to buy another car unless I can pay cash. Comparison is the thief of joy. I could've said in my head, "at least I don't have student loans and own a 4 bd/3/ba house".

[@thobilehlubelihlehadebe331]

Same experience and regret here 😢. I miss the days when I had no monthly car repayments. Im pushing to pay mine off in 4 years instead of 6. Never again 😢!!

[@genxx2724]

I do think it’s important to have the new safety features. When the car is paid off, keep making the payment to your savings account. When you need a new car, you’ll have the money to pay cash. And who cares what the intern drives? Maybe his parents bought the car for him, or maybe he’s in debt.

[@peter-jm1pu]

“Comparison is the thief of joy.” well said.

[@LukeofAllTrades.]

I miss my old Mazda 3. Got a new (used) car when it had some major trouble, should've just spent the money to fix it. Great little cars.

[@linuxsurfer2002]

@@LukeofAllTrades. Yeah many of us are guilty of that line of thinking: "Oh man my car needs MAJOR repairs! Instead of spending $3000 to get it fixed, it makes more sense to spend $15,000 on a replacement car."

[@jollama]

Acting poor while secretly being rich and having no debt is the dream

[@sanjaypatelmd4669]

Living below your means is always good!

[@wadeharris348]

I left my job with nothing lined up because I had massive savings and investments by living within my means. Everyone at work thought I was crazy not looking for promotions. Little did they know I had money to fall back on and they're still at the office grinding. Looks like I got the last laugh.

[@ConversationswithNate]

"How anchored are you?" Such a good question to ponder

[@lsgsrob2102]

It will always blow my mind that so so many people care about what others think, especially strangers. Fuck em, who cares.

[@erikybarra3898]

It's all about social status I suppose.

[@30Allaboutme]

This reminds me of when I used to make fun of my brother for wearing 10 yr old clothes and shoes and driving a beat up car. Come to find out he knew The Ramsey plan since his early 20 s and now can take 6 months off after being laid off from his job at the age of 36. ( company got bought out and he got severance) Also can afford to buy a house cash but chooses to live in a studio apartment while driving his 2005 Honda lol So who’s the fool now 😊😮 Like Ramsey says, “ The people who look like they have money don’t and those who don’t do.” ( something like that )

[@LoveLife-oo9cz]

So he can buy a house with cash but choose to pay rent in an apartment? Different people, different view I guess.

[@littlesongbird1]

@@LoveLife-oo9cz Hey may have the viewpoint, and I can see this, that it's better to rent because when something breaks, the land lord has to fix it and the landlord has to maintain the property. However I am with you, if I could afford to pay for a house in cash, I would probably just be seeing if the property tax and maintained costs would be less than my rent and going for it as well but to teach their own!

[@littlesongbird1]

"Like Ramsey says, “ The people who look like they have money don’t and those who don’t do.” ( something like that )" This! 100%. Now I see nothing wrong with treating yourself on occasion if you can afford it (I make it a point to save and live below my means all years but once a year when I take my real vacation so to speak where I go to a destination, I use that money to pay for some fun time with my two besties!" ) But I have a friend who always posts about having the last toy (think go pro camera when they first game out, or those electric bikes) and going on trips several times a year but recently found out he needs surgery and is panicking about taking a few weeks off of a work and how that will hurt his finances because he has nothing saved.

[@30Allaboutme]

@@LoveLife-oo9cz so him and his wife at the time did buy a house cash. But when he asked for the divorce she told him I’m not the one asking for it so I’m keeping the house . She had to pay him out

[@oshun2866]

I had a relative comment on when I was going to upgrade from an apartment to a home. As if she knows my financial goals. The second you are in need those are the last people to help.

[@dodg1988]

Not caring about others' opinions and living in contentment was one of the best decisions in my life.

[@GrnXnham]

Don't worry about what others think of you living beneath your means. You will get the last laugh with this one! I just retired 3 months ago at 54. Everyone we know who has a similar age and income are scratching their collective heads wondering how we retired years before they are able to. They, of course, have spent their entire lives trying to keep up with the Joneses and have nothing saved for their retirement.

[@mocheen4837]

I save and invest all the time, but I grew up poor in a single family household. I can never catch up to my friends who were born wealthy. My friends grew up with nice clothes, new cars, allowance, college tuition covered and were given down payments for their homes. Most of them retired at 50 and are worth 10 million and up mostly because they started life with a leg up. I was several years behind them since I could not afford college and had to save for my downpayment. They are all millions of dollars ahead of me in terms of wealth. Having parents with money makes a difference. I am in a position to provide for my children now and I can see how investing in your children increases their earning potential. I was able to send my children to private school. Both kids are straight A students and very well rounded. My daughter received basketball scholarships for college but turned them down to take a STEM scholarship. She received multiple scholarships to cover her tuition and receives a monthly stipend to cover costs. He scholarship has been extended to cover her PHD as well. She is always on the Deans list and will be interning at a top Biotech company in the Bay Area. My son is a top student at his high school and will be applying to college next year. He is already certified in several coding languages and is planning to work in the Biotech industry as well.

[@MamaHarperr]

@@mocheen4837 You have done wonderful by your children. Investing in them, in all ways, truly makes a world of difference 💜💜

[@969thewhip]

I paid my house off over 2 years ago and still drive the same old vehicle I had when I had a mortgage. I luckily stayed ahead on everything but I was one setback away from going broke at one point. I hate dept with a passion.

[@vickieclark5931]

Yeah, that's how many of us learned how to handle our money was getting really scared about paying our bills. Happened to me years ago. NEVER AGAIN!

[@suebotchie4167]

Amen!

[@SDALLE99]

An added bonus to looking poor is you don’t get targeted. You never knows, nowadays flaunting money is a death warrant.

[@sebastianplatt6815]

True

[@MelanatednNature]

Right

[@carolverdin6391]

My personal favorite comeback is always, "Once you are out of debt, if you dont like it, you can always go back." I get the oddest looks, haha!

[@bethanyg153]

When someone makes a comment like that, it’s just information to help you to decide who you want to gravitate to and who you want to limit time with.

[@Indyzato]

Living within your means looks like living below your means when everyone is living beyond their means.

[@carltonpresley5415]

I empathize with this person honestly. I live within my means as well. But the temptations of having a newer vehicle, house, or just better quality of life seem so much more enjoyable. Just have to remain grateful for what you have and know your sacrifices you make now will pay off in the long run.

[@stuffykong]

There's always going to be bright-shinies. I try to adopt a "look but don't touch" philosophy about it. I also realized that my impulse control was not where I wanted it to be and I find the more that I steer clear of impulse based purchases, the easier it becomes.

[@lagarde2011]

I think this is something that a lot of us following Ramsey or similar programs struggle with. We try to keep the eyes on the prize but sometimes it's not so easy. Nothing wrong with admitting it.

[@blackmuslimconservative]

This is why Dave preaches, "Live like no one else so you can later live like no one else."

[@mmp495]

I had my frustrations when I wanting "things" but I knew I was close and always kept my principles and family in mind. I knew there were greater things to come.

[@linuxsurfer2002]

For me, I know for a fact that the "new car" smell/feeling/etc is nowhere near worth the cost. After 6 months, the newness wears off, but the payments don't.

[@mike7933]

Bought a house at 23 before the economy turned. My gfs familt said it was small and old (2 bed 1 bath built in 1947.) people will judge, but it well within my budget and I sleep soundly at night knowing I don’t have to worry about paying the next bill or mortgages payment

[@ColleenJoudrey]

There is so much peace that comes along with being secure about a decision made.

[@cash5627]

You know, I've got my starter emergency fund, my debt snowball begining to roll and I'm decked out head to toe in good ol' Walmart clothes. Having that piece of mind that I'm financially covered no matter what makes them George shirts feel like Gucci.

[@darabowen8077]

It is none of anyone else's business how I live, what I have, or how much money I have. I CHOOSE to live the way I do, and if I'm happy that's all that matters. Thank you Lord for giving me what I NEED. 🙏❤️

[@fauxbro1983]

Quit caring is key to not bring broke. Lol

[@Reaperman4711]

It bugged me a few weeks ago. I got pulled over because the police didn't believe I'd just bought a car 15+ years old, so I must be on a counterfeit temp plate. Once they saw the paperwork I was on my way, but I imagine they drove off thinking I was dirt poor.

[@kl3271]

This is why I love my nice vehicles. I'd rather avoid being a target of prejudice...

[@NinaKeilin]

@@kl3271 Nope. I got a ticket once (not speeding) driving a borrowed BMW. Don't get tickets in my old Subaru.

[@lwscijunkie]

I get inner giggles...because I feel smug about appearing to be much less affluent than I am. I would not pay one thin dime to impress people who care about such things.

[@okiecav1986]

So this person has a two bedroom with a “roommate” and one bedroom is purely a work space. I’m guessing they don’t have bunk beds in the one bedroom used for sleeping. Love how this person avoided Dave’s judgement for cohabitation by referring to their partner as their roommate.😂

[@genxx2724]

It was odd and weasely. But that’s what they are, so good.

[@suebotchie4167]

Yep, "partner" can be a very deceptive term. Am old enough to remember it being used in the cowboy movies, "howdy, partner." Nothing skanky/weird/sinful.

[@in_theory_2308]

Lol I was wondering if anyone else caught that. Thank you! 😂

[@dianabinkowski3927]

My late husband's family for years made comments about it must be nice being rich because we never lived above our means. Most of them try to keep up with the Jones. I am now widowed and have no bills except for a mortgage and I pay extra premium payments and still put money into my savings. I live comfortably and they live on social security. Now it's just jealousy.

[@linuxsurfer2002]

They thought you guys were rich because you lived frugally? I would think they would think the opposite.

[@richguest]

Ignore them, as the old saying goes: poor people living like they're rich keeping them poor - rich people living like they're poor keeping them rich!

[@suesjoy]

I just discovered your show and absolutely love it! Thank you so much. Appreciate you and your team. Blessings to all. May everyone prosper. 💟🙏💟

[@GolfAppetite]

The less debt I have the better I sleep at night.

[@gessrinky9129]

I think people often look for faults in others to be superior…people love to “have one on ya”

[@mrdanforth3744]

Poor guy. All he has is money. The aunt believes you are supposed to spend money you don't have to buy things you don't want to impress people you don't like. She doesn't even see that as insane.

[@linuxsurfer2002]

I have always lived below my means and now my wife and I have continued that for our 17 years of marriage. Thankfully, I don't think I have gotten any comments on our used cars, simple clothing, etc. Even if I do, I'm sure I'll sleep just fine at night.

[@sydnismith9796]

I’m really glad you all addressed this. I think so many people can relate.

[@TheRealEdStoner]

They have a name for people that live below their means for 20 or 30 years. They are called millionaires.

[@allenhuling598]

Ringing in my ears is your quote, 'live like no other so that you can live like no other!' Nuff said!

[@dougf9900]

If you know you are doing the right thing, but are getting criticism, that criticism is likely coming from someone who is doing the wrong thing. So there is no need to take wrong opinions personally.

[@mmp495]

💯. I found that to be the case. Someone telling me to live my life and Yolo who was broke themselves...beware!

[@calibanxpable]

This happens to me too. No one outside of me is better than me. Everybody has problems. Their problems are not mine.

[@stevegolacks8731]

Our neighbors think we are "poor" due to the car we drive. BUT its interesting...they also are very confused as to how we are retired at 50. Every morning, I sit outside sipping my coffee, watching the sun rise, and wave to this 66 year old in his BMW as he about to venture into gridlock traffic. I am very nice about and I make sure I wave to him again as he comes home at about 7pm, when I am grilling in flip flops and tank top, glass of wine in hand. Choices.

[@antepavic6786]

You dropped this 👑

[@toddryan0108]

This was a great question and conversation. Seems to be a serious problem amongst certain people thinking that they get a vote into your private life.

[@jozuzl1]

She should’ve said, “I choose to live like no one else so one day I can live and give like no one else!”

[@wewhoareabouttodiesaluteyo9303]

Someone's rebuttal would be "What happens if that day never comes?"

[@tonycrabtree3416]

@@wewhoareabouttodiesaluteyo9303 “Which day is that?” Is the rebuttal to that.

[@wewhoareabouttodiesaluteyo9303]

@@tonycrabtree3416 Refer to the OP's original comment.

[@tonycrabtree3416]

@@wewhoareabouttodiesaluteyo9303 No, I’m responding to your hypothetical.

[@tenningale]

If she says that to broke family members then it'll be "You like giving your money away but don't even give to your own family meh meh meh...." I know this because I have exploitative family members who like fishing around for people's financial info. Good solution is to ignore them or have boundaries where certain subjects don't get a word in response.

[@danieldpa8484]

I love living below my means - nobody knows how much money I have, I know if issues like unemployment happen, I can survive 5 years before issues start, without cutting a single cost or getting any money from benefits or whatever. Peace of mind is wonderful

[@jacobstrouble6631]

Love living in my $100k townhome working from home. So easy to go to the store with whatever I'm wearing around the house on my 6-figure salary driving my 2005 pickup. No lifestyle creep or house upgrades for me.

[@bhmichigan8731]

I never cared what other people thought of how I lived. Everything has give and take and trades offs. I choose to live in various countries (11) and have been to 104. I retired at 45 (outside of managing my assets) People would say I lived below my means in things I owned ... yet never understood why I in their mind spent to so living around the world ... I never had debt outside of 1 car loan when I was young. Now in my 60s ... amazing how everyone is jealous of how I lived ... because they planned on doing everything after retiring > of course most cannot (various reasons) and cannot in the way they dreamed about ... almost all downsize the day they retire ... thus spent their entire life buying things they never really used or even needed in the first place. I own 2 homes ... bought them years ago ... both are in what are in now what are highly desired locations ... I paid a tiny fraction of the current value. Of course, when I acquired them, people said I was crazy. Point is > live YOUR life > not the life others want you to ... avoid debt > it controls you > doesn't matter if you make 20k or 20 million > it controls you. Be in control of your own life .... and never worry about explaining why you didn't follow the sheep.

[@lc9493]

You cannot control what other people will say but you change your mindset. When you can live your life without needing other peoples approval, it can be pretty liberating.

[@Lonovavir]

Just wait until the economy gets really bad, and then those who live below their means will feel relief, if not joy. Those who live above their means will end up broke real fast.

[@vickieclark5931]

Exactly! That's why some of us aren't freaked out over inflation like others are. If you live paycheck to paycheck then the higher costs of food, gas, and other things will keep you from sleeping at night. but if you have extra money, then you don't feel the hit on inflation the same. Sure we all know prices have gone up, but those higher prices aren't going to dictate if we eat or not if we have some padding in the bank account.

[@mateus8676]

@@vickieclark5931 It's true, inflation is more of an inconvenience rather than a crippling burden when you have margin in your budget. 8-12 months emergency fund is also a good idea especially after this unforseen pandemic. I know some who lived below their means and lost an income but still were able to survive. I know others who lost what they thought they had, but when they lost it they realized who owned item. They owned the debt, but the bank owned their future

[@aolvaar8792]

@@vickieclark5931 I'm on a FIXED retirement income, in ten years, my income will buy half as much.

[@suebotchie4167]

@@aolvaar8792 i would like to retire, but am afraid to because of legalized extortion (inflation).

[@suebotchie4167]

and come to the savers with hat in hand, sob story on their lips, and our spare room (and our frig) on their minds.

[@CJ2023Incognito]

I have an older family member who always has to add something negative. He is a drama/gossip Queen. Lol The other day I was showing him my “new to me” car and he goes, “I’ve never liked leather seats, but it’s nice.” My hubby and I just laugh about it. We think the car is awesome! At 30 we are sitting better than he is. It’s just his personality. We don’t mind it because like Dave said, we only let a select few really speak into our lives.

[@krissyrivard7485]

You don't have any obligation to explain yourself to other people. Choose what you prioritize, and be accountable to that.

[@mmp495]

This has been the most freeing aspect of this journey is not caring what others think, remaining laser focused on your path. Two houses paid off 💯 debt free and able to do whatever the flip I want.

[@davidjensen3474]

I think it's American culture. We have a tough time being humble. It's almost not socially appropriate. I get the same type of questions..

[@joycewright5386]

When I retired early I had a coworker telling me that I must be rich and that is why I am able to retire. I asked her if she had one of those large expensive flatscreen TVs on her wall. She said she did. I told her mine came from a yard sale for $5 and that is why I am retiring. Nothing to be embarrassed about.

[@genxx2724]

How old were you? How old was the co-worker?

[@lolwtnick4362]

lol. nice. my whole living room used to be second hand stuff. it's easy to save when stuff is paid for, and paid less for.

[@CarrieV9]

At my last workplace, I was teased for having an older iPhone. When I got a new phone, I was mocked for buying an expensive, latest model phone. 😅 I just laugh.

[@AllynHin]

My MiL does this to me a lot. She's all about how big and grand and fancy her things are -- the house, the furnishings, the car, et al. They live way over their means. I've had big, grand, and fancy in my first marriage and it didn't make me happy (though I will admit I miss the rose garden and the maid service). This time around, I like small, quaint, and pragmatic, but she'll make 'suggestions' on how we can fancy things up because she thinks I certainly wouldn't live like this if I knew how to make it better.

[@keith-kb1zl]

the most insecure people that are constantly seeking validation from others will always tell you no matter what they have how much this or that costs.”this suit cost 3,000 dollars “ ,”we decided to put little Johnny in this private school it’s 4,000 dollars tuition but we can afford it” “we got a great deal on the bmw for 90,000 dollars “,and so on , the latest in vogue living room furniture set, it’s just insecurity to have to tell people constantly how much you paid for the latest gadget..🤦‍♂️🤦‍♂️🤦‍♂️

[@RPMcMurphy33]

Living below your means is having an attitude of gratitude. Know who you are and stand firm in your gratitude.

[@JulsMWK1995]

Interesting point. I’m insecure about some things in my life and worry what people think but there are other things I’m anchored in, confident in my decision, that I don’t care.

[@carolannskinner1964]

I applaud them for living their own lives!

[@kevindame3757]

Godliness with contentment is great gain. Awesome to hear this.

[@JakeSpradlin2]

Real wealth is silent auntie

[@leisure057blank3]

I was never a debt person cause I didn’t want to pay interest and lived below my means, and worked a second job so I could invest and save. I think in the beginning I had some pangs of “I can’t afford what everybody else can. But over the years, I’ve realized I am quite comfortable and content. I don’t want for anything except the ability to get rid of all the junk in my house.

[@biolife3274]

This is exactly my situation now. This video came at the perfect time.

[@b.bernal6151]

Maybe it’s not the size, but the fact that you need to take pride in your home. Keep it clean and take time to decorate it and make it welcoming. Make it your sanctuary.

[@shelleyirwin6104]

She sounds young. As she goes on throughout her life she will probably become more confident in her decisions.

[@southernbelle2478]

I rather have $1000 in a $5 purse then $5 in a $1000 purse

[@cathyP1961]

The older man driving the old pickup wearing overalls that many feel sorry for . Don’t kid yourself.

[@gwenj5419]

Amen. Why care about what other people think when they are probably up to their eyeballs in debt?

[@matthewstevens4155]

That is one thing I have going for me, I couldn't care less about what other people think about me at this point in my life. I drive a 10 year old car and barely ever buy new clothes. Just need to keep cutting out some of the stupid spending I still do (mostly food!).

[@BG-qs6ii]

Been in the same boat as this person. Always was helpful to look at the overall financial statistics of Americans and realize that most of the commentators don't have any money/in crippling debt.

[@imaami44]

I am living in a fixer upper. Each pay period I put money aside for repairs. I was able to get a better paying job but it's an hour drive one way. Working this job for 6 months I will be able to pay off my debt and replace the flooring in my house.

[@muzerhythm2242]

I can relate but the part I struggle with is that everyone around me has that....Gotta have it now mentality and dealing with payments. I feel very alone in being the rare person that isn't buying into the idea of consumerism and content with what I have.

[@gloriaalex11]

One positive aspect of social media is that you've found a whole community of people who share your financial values, so you know you're NOT alone. Sometimes it's nice to have validation, especially when everyone in your immediate location has lost their everlovin' minds. Don't fear being an outlier when you're in the right.

[@unfairsanic5089]

Dont be a sheep

[@mitchellmane]

Good work guys

[@2023Red]

It is hard to not care what others think especially family. Thinking and feeling are not the same.

[@lisahinkofer2085]

Who cares what others say. You are doing it the right way and what’s best for you. It’s none of your business what other’s opinions are. These narrow minded people need to keep their distance from you and you should be proud for taking care of yourself and living below your means is right for you so keep going. As long your your place is clean and as long as you have a roof over your head and money in your account then you are living well.

[@TheFlyingZulu]

Living below your means doesn't have to last forever... Just do it until you can afford to live at a lifestyle you want to live at.

[@sblijheid]

You don't make sense. Living below your means is within your paycheck, but below max. Why would you go paycheck to paycheck or above?

[@louismat319]

It's simple. You are comfortable at your, comfortable level. You are here for you and not to impress someone else.

[@MikeNapoli1989]

I love looking poor and having a lot of money in the bank being very comfortable, than looking wealthy and being in a ton of debt and stressing. As a horror monster manager, we are trained to not let people get to us when it comes to insulting us, etc.

[@stuffykong]

This is how I was raised. Grew up in a middle class family and thought we were poor based on how we lived. Meanwhile my dad was investing in property and building a substantial nest egg. It meant then that I was able to go to college and grad school with no debt and I carried over lots of those habits into my adulthood.

[@erikybarra3898]

​@pt0430 And then the avg. Woman wonders why a lot of single men believe the majority of women are gold diggers!

[@donnanorris4733]

Just reading the caption - I'm speechless. It's none of my business what others think of me.

[@carlaritchie331]

Why would you need a bigger apartment if you are gone much of the time? It seems you made a very wise choice!!! The Aunt's comment doesn't matter, whether or not it was meant as a snarky criticism or just an observation. As my Aunt once told me, smaller house = less to clean! Less payment = you are winning!