Why I am so frugal: Frugal Wealth | Frugal & Happy

[@davidleong6606]

Since I’m Frugal on myself, It gives me margin to be able to practice generosity to others! This brings me great joy!

[@wmp3346]

Well said

[@GregoryVincent-d9u]

That is an excellent principle.

[@briandillard3809]

My parents taught me to be frugal. Thank goodness. I was divorced in my mid 30s. I remarried a few years later, and I’m debt free before age 50. Having the right spouse is everything.

[@asavannah7439]

That's right. My husband and I are mortgage and debt free in our Forties. We are very conscious in how we're spending money and we don't even have any credit cards

[@Tracker5111]

@@asavannah7439 You may want just ONE CC in order to use to protect your bank account from skimmers and online scammers.

[@1FlyingSolo1]

Also divorced in my late 30's, not remarried and don't plan on it. Zero debts and no mortgage before 40. I plan on keeping it that way. I have such peace, it's priceless.

[@MattyLiam333]

Having no spouse is the best

[@mikeykpe6123]

From Australia. Great life story mate. I've been divorced and lost more than 75% at 50 years of age. I have a mortgage again and it's a challenge but money doesn't buy happiness but I'm happy. I love setting goals and I plan to own my home before 60. I act slow and steady and never give up and never envy what others have. Cheers

[@cozmicsoull]

Peace and Power! Stay focused and keep pushing.✊🏾

[@elsamorales3350]

Love your last paragraph!!! That’s such a beautiful attribute!! Blessings

[@leebay6093]

Well said, setting goals and achievements all in the positive mind set, you’ll reach your goal for sure, smart man

[@KurniadiPrathomo-sp5zd]

You're DA MAN! Keep fighting, Bro 💪🏽

[@mikeykpe6123]

@@KurniadiPrathomo-sp5zd Thank you.👍

[@dandelion1598]

I've lived in same home for 30years & debt free for over 20years. I grow big garden & put food up for winter & beyond. I own other properties free and clear that no one knows about. Relatives have told me that I look like a pauper, I'm happy. I work full time & invest the yearly maximums on all my accounts. Going to work is easy when your debt free. My health insurance is covered by my company for being in good health. My parents taught me about money & how to keep it. I am the classic "the millionaire next door "

[@Art930]

Just found your channel. I've always tried to live on half of my takes home pay and keep an excel spreadsheet of my take home/outgoing with formulae that calculate the percentages for me. After being a stay-at-home mom until my late 30's, my first job earned me $16,000. I saved $5000 that first year: slum apartment, beater car cut my own hair, etc. In succeeding years I managed to save as much as 52% of take home. My co-workers used to tease me about not joining them for lunch or drinks, and were shocked when I splurged for a 2-week trip to China. I always had my mortgage and car payments paid several months ahead, just in case of job loss. Recently retired. No mortgage, no debt of any kind. Living solely on social security quite comfortably because its still more than 50% of my final salary. Also manage to put money into savings and give generously to charities. Frugality gives me a natural high because I regard it as a game.

[@HibiscusHigh]

🙌

[@user-bg9em7ch6k]

I love hearing about all the ways you created a solid and beautiful life for yourself and your family!

[@pensacola321]

Frugal does not mean cheap. It just means being mindful with your money, and getting the best value. You will get a lot more out of life if you get the most out of your money. Don't be wasteful...

[@MTtroutfisher406]

Well said!

[@lanahundley8625]

This! 😊😊

[@bodhi9464]

I read the Richest Man in Babylon ~ George Clason 📖 in my early 20s (followed the rules) and am retired in my mid 50s .

[@cfmgomes]

"trying to be debt free by the time you are 50 I think it is really a good goal" Great advice!

[@marygoodsell3602]

I love your videos and I loved what you said, one house, one spouse. This is so true! My older husband has had dementia for years and in the early years I was very unhappy and also in poor shape financially. But I stuck with it, I can say that I am very focused, I am the best caregiver any one could have, and I am super rewarded! And your advise is very helpful! Thank you!

[@ronandersen3336]

Azul, I earned my PPL at 62 and now I’m working on getting my Instrument rating, I’ll be 65 in 3 months! Self employed for 39 years, love your channel and your life’s philosophies! Safe flying!!

[@mindfulnessretreat4759]

I am frugal because spending money makes me anxious. Having a no debt and a lot of money in my accounts is like a security blanket. Also it is like a game for me to find the most cost effective way to manage and complete a task. We grew up without much money and we had find creative ways to get things and do activities. I don't know how people feel comfortable having consumer debt. The only debt I had was a mortgage. Even with that I had a tenant and that paid for my mortgage. I am so frugal I made my house pay for itself. I raised my son and I was not frugal with my family.

[@rjampiolo32]

In truth we should all follow the way You did it.

[@maryshouse5080]

I doubt people feel “comfortable”‘with consumer debt. I can recall very clearly my first few years as a special education teacher and single mom. When I walked into my classroom I broke down and cried. There was hardly anything in the room outside of a file cabinet, desks and chairs and a box of curriculum. I spent over 6k that first year, buying books for my library, dry erase markers (parents stopped bringing them in and we used them every day) and so so much more. Then for dinner my son and I ate food from the dollar store. It was so hard. I still had my student loan from my education and I paid it faithfully each month. Our splurge was going out to fast food one time when I got paid. I didn’t “choose” that. When my mom could babysit and I would tutor after school for extra money. When I was in school I knew I was committing to a lower paying career, but I thought I could make it work. Needless to say I am no longer a teacher. But I would have been so upset if someone said I “chose” to be broke working 50 plus hours a week pouring my life into kids with developmental disabilities and autism. Someone has to.

[@GraceMontenegro-ny7ov]

Hi Mr. Azul, I am happy that I found your channel. I am Mexican and frugality is not something that is practiced frequently enough in my culture. I have practiced frugality for about 10 years now and I love it. It's given my life a whole different direction. My goal is to be a better administrator of what God has given me and my family so that I can teach my children the same lesson and help the those who are not so fortunate. Thanks for making these types of videos. God bless you.

[@stevethomas760]

One of my best buds ran away from home around 30 years ago. Bought a sailboat and headed for the Carribean, ended up on St John. This guy can fix/do about anything, plumber/home builder. Found a salvageable 56' all wooden sailboat. Refurbished it and sailed it to Europe. He and his wife worked for nine months and sailed for three, did that for ten years. They would put the boat up in whatever country they were in and repeat. His philosophy was "I won't be able to do this when I'm older = I'll work a few more years". Got to join them in the Greek Iles and later in Sicily, incredible memories. Doing a 14 day river trip through the Grand Canyon trip with him next year. Stretch run

[@foreveryoung999]

Now, that's the life I want.

[@trentmeidinger6160]

Great insights! My dad was very frugal and would say, “Never spend more than you earn” and “A fool and his money are soon parted.” Drove the family crazy but he was financially sound. However, he never conveyed peace about money; he compared to others, fretted about potential job loss (never happened) and often commented how he could “lose it all.” Now I am 52 and have no debt yet have no peace of mind about it. I continue to worry just as I did throughout the years leading up to this point in life. Money is more emotionally complicated than I realized.

[@randyhassell2733]

My grandfather used to say that "a fool and his money were lucky to get together in the first place."... love that one.

[@urbanart7325]

My father would say: it's not in the budget"

[@davidtrak2679]

Get help, it's extremely common for people to worry about stuff from childhood, even years after there's no need to worry about them anymore. You can teach yourself not to

[@dyates6380]

I'm the exact same way. I think I am much like your dad was. I am also someone who worries when, in reality, I really have nothing to worry about at age 65 (barring something catastrophic, of course). Frankly, I wish this anxiety would just go away. I thought for SURE it would have after I retired five months ago, but it still hangs on. Best of luck.

[@nathanpeacock9978]

@@dyates6380 Just reflect on a time when you were broke. I too, remember a time when I was really struggling financially. The times were hard, but I have some of the richest memories from that time. Life is not a disaster if you find yourself broke again. Like people who lose everything in natural disasters like tornadoes and hurricanes. They just start over helping themselves and their neighbors.

[@lauraholland347]

I agree it's a mindset- I see it as an exciting challenge, not a sacrifice.

[@robsemeniuk2578]

Azul, you have a special talent of blending financial and philosophical advice. I had a little chuckle as I am a car guy. When you said your smart purchase of reliable transportation was a 2006 mini Cooper …you have been lucky. I would’ve bet you were going to say Camry or accord. your message of being frugal towards material possessions is a good one. Our society is so conditioned to buy more. These are often empty achievements with fleeting sense of reward. Wise message of spending your money on what truly brings you joy.

[@RM-bx2zt]

Frugality is not being cheap, it is the wise use of one's money and resources.

[@daveschmarder-1950]

A friend told me that someone told him that he thought I was poor as a church mouse. I just smiled and thought, SUCCESS!

[@user-bg9em7ch6k]

My husband and I always traveled to wherever was interesting and reasonably priced at that time, and we traveled a lot also. So many people are willing to spend on a fancy car each month what we often spent on a vacation. We drove old cars and went all over the world 🌎

[@teraengsf]

Azul, I’ve watched all of your videos and this one is especially endearing because you shared your personal story. It explains your intrinsic value that informs your lifestyle choices. Like you I’m a proud value conscious, ecological Frugalista. I live in the spirit of abundance and share generously but we are not at all wasteful. It’s very intentional living and I’m quite happy. Thanks for your videos. Keep them coming.

[@AzulWells]

Tera, wow! thank you for those kind words. You made my morning!! I’m glad to hear you are enjoying a similar mindset. Reading comments like your’s are super motivational to me. Thank you again for watching and for taking the time to comment. 😎Azul

[@mikefixac]

First video I've watched from Azul. How likeable. Azul's not trying to push his way of thinking on anyone. He just smiles and shares how he chooses to live his life. What gets me, is that I think for most of us, our parents, perhaps grandparents, had tough lives. That's just the way it was back then. It's only relatively recently, we can live lives with much abundance.

[@AzulWells]

Michael - Thank you for your kind words. You made my day! 😎 Azul

[@CC-kr3mr]

I really loved this video and the beautiful nature setting. It really represents your values and your message. Thank you 🙏🏽 ❤

[@roselynthompson5022]

Hey From the highlands of Scotland here. I have just found you. You are talking a lot of sense. We are frugally minded also and cars mean transport from A to B and enable us to explore. We live in the country so it is a necessity. Dear old Volvo is gamely plodding on for us. 4WD of course. We don’t want boats or fancy cars but you are right about the experiences and sucking in the fresh air and beauty around us and finding beauty and interesting people in other countries. We are from farmer stock too , in our sixties and thankfully still fit (one stress related big scare for hubby). We realise that there is more behind us than in front and definitely have no time to spare for soul-suckers. Keep pressing on joyfully and maybe you will make it to the north highlands sometime. We will be travelling more now we are heading for semi-retirement. We will be part of our sons’ business which is amalgamating with ours. Family is so important. We have few but very good friends where we can be ourselves that is so much more rewarding. ❤ rock on!

[@thewestendwoodworker]

Azul, I just found you on KZbin. I think you have some really solid advice on these videos. As a finance guy for 40 years, I have seen how 'following your wants' can really get folks in trouble. Keep up the good work man. All the best to you !

[@scott17601]

Great points - I've already been living this way for years, but it was validating to hear someone who has a lot of experience with money say them out loud. I'm with you I've never bought a new car, I've said it a hundred times a car is a tool to get me from point A to point B, as long as it looks presentable and is mechanically sound I'm very happy.

[@steevewhitehead1416]

I did not use my youth financially wisely- Surfed for 20 years, now I have to keep working, but no debt and no regrets, Not many things I would want money for, just clothing, food, essentials. So I did not waste my youth, I reckon.

[@sf5912]

Definitely not...life is about having a head full of glorious memories that make you smile.

[@huwwilliams6866]

Love your videos… My personal favourite mantras ‘one house, no spouse’ ( a modification of yours, hehe), ‘spend less, retire earlier’, ‘change the car when when it can no longer be repaired’ (I bought my jeep Cherokee when it was 1.5yrs old, it is now 24 yrs old, I’ve only ever had 2 cars for my whole adult life - I’m 54)

[@sf5912]

I've had four and am of similar age....the older ones were definitely built to last and better than the throw away EVs. Rust is only my main enemy... currently have an old VW Golf from 2003.

[@johnportilla4978]

Mr. Azul What a beaurtiful story and great advice. My family also fled Europe at the same time. As bad as we think we have it in the U.S.A. at times, my father would always tell us we won the birth Loto because we were born in the U.S.A. How ture that statement is. "Only in America" we are all turly blessed!!! Thanks for all you do. 👍

[@lizb1537]

I can relate to keeping your cars for a long time. I’ve bought only two new cars. The first one lasted for 15 years. I donated it & the charity towed it away. The next car I bought was a Honda Accord in early 2009. I paid it off in 4 years & it’s been running great ever since! I plan to keep it as long as I can. I recently found your channel & am really enjoying your videos! Thank you!!

[@kathyokinaga9888]

Being frugal keeps anxiety down

[@SusanJMT]

When you have the capacity for happiness no matter what, a frugal life is simple, enjoyable, and interesting. Unhappiness seems to cost a lot, or waste a lot. When a car aficiando asked my daughter what she wanted in a car (her old 17-year-old hand-me-down was demolished during a high-speed police chase while parked in front of her house), she answered that it should go forward, and in reverse... He remarked: "You want an appliance with wheels." Yup, she now has my Happy Little Toaster which was my old Honda Fit whilst I have a slightly newer one.

[@ericglaude4953]

Thank you Azul for what you do on this channel. It really helps me at 55 to stay focused on the goal and sure makes me feel better when I hear the sacrifices that you made are similar to my own and more importantly turn that into a positive as opposed to a negative. We can all learn a lot about ourselves and what it means to retire happy. Keep up the inspirational work you do.

[@grannygoes7882]

OMG! I am the same way about dealerships. My husband liked to go and look at new cars and he didn't care that you were held hostage till you bought one. I DID! I don't plan on ever going to a car dealership again in my lifetime. They really intend on keeping you there until they've coeroced you into buying something you don't even know if you want. I'm Scotch so being frugal is in my DNA. I'm 64 and can pretty much buy whatever I want and now I can't figure out what it is I want lol!!

[@heidiho3089]

I love how Azul gives this crucial advice without putting the fear of God into people. I can pay attention and feel at ease with his delivery. Other financial advisors have scared the crap out of me making me want to bury my head in the sand (my own fault for sure). Thank you for your calm and reassuring guidance.

[@bekind3050]

After I paid my bills and put money on savings, I allow myself to do things I want to do: Travel to volunteer at the homeless shelter, Gardening (not really cheap), & help young engineers on their tuition. These things makes me happy. I don't have a lot, but I think I'll be fine. ❤❤❤❤❤

[@ClearTheDeck]

Azul, I am really enjoying your videos. You talk broadly enough about money and retirement that most of what you say applies to me even though I am Canadian. And it turns out that we have flight in common. My son recently acquired his commercial pilot license. Between our education funds for our kids, his seasonal work, his dedication to learning and flying, and obtaining his GPL and PPL through the Royal Canadian Air Cadets programme, he made it happen. He's working this summer building his hours as a glider instructor with cadets. I thought you might get a kick out of hearing another pilot's story.

[@janetrobinson8925]

-I wish I could find a travel companion like you. At 67, I love to see new places and people and have traveled over 400,000 miles since I retired in 2014. Life is an adventure and I love it!

[@michaelcatalano6950]

I agree 100%. Frugality does not have to mean excessive self-sacrifice. Being frugal can be a joyful experience. We have done a lot of 'frugal traveling,' starting before we were married, through 4 kids (pop-up camper and tenting), and now as we approach retirement. A few years ago, we did two full weeks in Italy, Rome, Naples, Matera, Venice, and Florence, for three people for $6500 including airfare (not counting my mother-in-law's shopping). You don't have to spend a lot of money to have a great experience and create lasting memories.

[@AarrenDieok]

I enjoy your pleasant, sincere and honest sharing. Being frugal is good for the over consuming Earth too ❤

[@scottsala7243]

I grew up in Cleveland Ohio and currently live just outside of Cleveland. I recently retired the first of the year at age 62. Retirement is very new to me. I get a lot of great information and advice from your videos. Also a certified A&P mechanic. Thanks for all you are doing.

[@AzulWells]

Welcome Scott. I hope you are enjoying retirement. Good for you for taking the leap early and being able to take advantage of your younger and healthier years. And thanks for sharing that you’re an A&P mechanic. Thanks for watching and taking time to comment. Always good to hear from another Clevelander. Go Cavs! 🏀 Azul

[@jeffb.2469]

Have you checked out Buzz's Retirement Garage on YT? He's from Cleveland also and just retired a few months ago. Good luck on your retirement journey.

[@scottsala7243]

@@jeffb.2469 Yes, I have caught a few of his videos. He seems like another good channel to follow on KZbin. Thanks Jeff.

[@veightkiero9015]

Couldnt agree more. Frugality is smart. Keeps me from buying stuff I dont really want, then having to manage the inventory in the closet and basement. I totally agree with your philosophy of focusing on the joy of life.

[@johncurtis920]

I've found trying to explain the why of frugality to those who are not can be an exercise in frustration. You end up talking at each other not to each other. For me I just say I don't need much and leave it at that. I find it best to just live my life as I please and let them do the same. John~

[@bikepacker9850]

I'm frugal too, retired at 55. I travel 4 to 6 months a year. Because I'm frugal I travel to cheaper countries... Currently in Nepal, I just come from Sri Lanka, Bali is next. You can live very very well for $300 per week. Beer, food, accommodation, tours, adventures all for less than rent in my home country. Last year, two amazing months in Vietnam, including airfares for under $2500. My buddy still works, just finished 3 weeks in Europe, sending back pictures of himself sitting in expensive restaurants, cost over $18000. It seems like he went to Europe so he could brag about being in Paris. Ego drives it all. Great channel. Thanks, great to hear like minded people.

[@unclesam7212]

Relatable. That's how I would describe you. Thank you for sharing with us. I wish there was someone like you in my group of friends. I consider myself frugal. (But I call it 'tight'. Without negative connotations.) I try to enjoy life, but I don't find spending recklessly/needlessly enjoyable. I may not have a tomorrow, but I'm going to plan as if I do. I have a goal I'm working toward. A place I want to be and a lifestyle I desire to have. Neither are extravagant, but I'm not the extravagant type. But in the meantime, I still enjoy life. Trips to the seaside, fishing excursions, etc. I'm a homebody so travel is a low priority with me. I consider vehicles a necessary evil, and a new vehicle wasteful. I'm 57, single, with $800k in savings, and a pension waiting for me at 65. I no longer work but still manage to save. If young people would take your advice they would be FAR better off than I am at my age. (In fact, if I had started doing the things you recommend earlier in life I would be far better off, though I'm not complaining. It is as Mark Twain said: "Youth is wasted on the young." ) For a high school graduate in an area with a perpetually depressed economy I feel pretty blessed. Again, thank you.

[@paul88824]

There is no better financial education than growing up “poor” with frugal parents. My parents were well into middle-age when they came with me into this country. For the first few years they worked at minimum or below minimum wage jobs. We lived on dad’s salary and saved mom’s. In just 3 yeas, they saved enough for a down payment on a four unit apartment house. We lived in a one bedroom apartment and rented out the other three units to cover mortgage payments and property taxes. Mom and dad never paid another cent of rent for the rest of their lives. When mom moved into assisted-living more than 40 years later, the building was sold for more than 25 times what they paid for it. My parents did a tremendous amount for me, but one of their most valuable gifts was just showing me a fine example of what frugality and saving could do. And I never heard them complain of lack or jealousy.

[@tammyjenks9814]

Being Frugal doesn't mean cheap, especially on the back of others, like taking advantage of others. Its finding a good deal, working extra and doing with out things

[@Volvo8Fifty4Life]

Azul, thank you for your videos.

[@jeffhaley430]

Your Videos are great. I am 62 this is my last year of work. I just got off work, watch 2 of your videos and finished my 2nd Martini. This second video I am sending to a buddy of mine that has 2 kids in their 20s about travel. It is great. My son traveled to South American every other year three times. He is a better man for it. I really like your delivery and content. Jeff

[@artsyladie7]

You are so right, sir! My husband and I believed in buying gently or slightly used cars or trucks. We used great discernment and even bought from well-known new car dealers, walking away from a deal until they were willing to give us the deal we could afford. The cars or trucks always ran well mechanically and looked very nice. You can save thousands by buying a vehicle that is last years model.

[@Greenapul]

Cool advice to recommend travel for 20 somethings. An elderly guy gave similar advise to my son. He said as a 70 year old he would give any amount of money to be able to travel the world now in the body of a 20 year old.

[@patriciamoore3318]

Not bragging at all. Encouraging people to live their true lives. Don’t spend time on social media. Unless you’re a KZbinr . Live now! 67 going bicycling tomorrow and tennis later in the week. Come on people!

[@WOWOKWOWOK]

Azul- I just discovered your excellent contributions to humanity thru your honest and real testimonies here on KZbin. Thank you. I’m a new fan! Keep it up!

[@glorgau]

There it is. No matter how much you earn, spend less than that. Pretty freaking simple.

[@marcfontana1454]

Sometimes you have to spend a little up front to come out ahead financially. In 2007 I put solar on my home. Back then solar panels cost 5x what they are today, but my savings in electric bills have paid for my investment in solar pay for itself many times over. Now my power is free. Just this Year I collected $1300 for my surplus generation. In 2011 I bought an electric car. At $33k it was expensive but after incentives my cost was $24k and since my fuel ( solar) is free, my cost to own and operate this EV is under $2k per Year. Do yourself a favor spend the money on things that not only clean our air and reduce your carbon footprint but pay for themselves over time. There is absolutely no way I will ever buy a new or used internal combustion car again. I don't mind buying a new EV, it brings me Joy. Try it, you're going to love it 😊

[@thefilipinojoe]

I’m frugal too, and as a result, I’m able to afford to give people jobs here in the Philippines. I’m much happier giving people jobs than wasting my money on stupid stuff.

[@17713bb]

I have not even watched the video yet and want to pass along a phrase borrowed from a bumper sticker. Happiness is positive cash flow.

[@AzulWells]

I LOVE that phrase. Thanks for sharing it with us! 😎 Azul

[@mickl3073]

Loved the talk thanks Azul

[@itesung5512]

Thank you for this video, the sharing and the walk in the beautiful snow view. I live in Taipei Taiwan. During my thirties, I was in the PhD program and I had returned to work for six years now. I have to admit that I had not been frugal..., but recently, I realize the importance of saving money and the beauty of financial independence in the long run. And I came across your channel! It's positive vibe and encouragement!

[@chollypaderanga307]

Great inputs Azul .. being frugal is not bad .. for as long as you’re happy, you know. Very true indeed, being financially stable is very important. I saved and I splurged .. so I won’t be borrowing money to splurge. I am with you to best give my children some generation wealth before I passed away

[@decaf4me2]

Wonderful video, Azul! Thank you for sharing so much about yourself. It's a delight to get to know you a little better. And thank your for sharing your frugal mindset and advice. Cheers!

[@jgmatp]

I've always done nearly all the work on my house and my cars. 20+ year old cars that run like new, are cheap to insure and maintain. Totally worth the savings and pride of having built a lifelong skillset of knowing how to fix anything and everything. Oh yea that's neat, I'm an atp too, CFI in the 90s and flew for the airlines back in the day prior to 9-11-01. Got the hell out after a few corporate gigs, lots of layoffs and overcoming lymphoma in my early 30's. Been developing software since. Still alive and kickin. Looking forward to retirement soon. Thanks for your channel.

[@mikehabel2441]

Hi Azul, that was a good one to watch ch. I guess as a former aircraft owner, I owned two, I could relate. I was one of the crazy guys who actually chose to fly for a living. My journey took me all over northern Canada and Alaska. After 36 yeas I have just decided to stop making a living by sitting on a chair in the sky. The last 30 yeas I have been flying the Canadair waterbomber and have love it. I truly appreciate your videos. I have been the tortoise, of the tortoise, and the hare with regards to investing and saving. I was lucky to have a company pension and was able to save outside of that as well. My wife is younger and still working and loves her job. I have a hard time giving up their hands on part of my job, but the gong show that is the bureaucracy that runs these companies will not be missed. I think I live just up the road from you across the border in BC. My Ski town is Rossland Red Mountain. I’d love to be able to have a talk not publicly. Thanks Azul I’ll continue to watch your content and like it . Mike

[@MTtroutfisher406]

Frugality to me is not wasting money on appearances and spending money on things that bring happiness and less stress. I 100% agree with your recommendation to be debt free by 50. I am at 45yo and it’s definitely the road less traveled. My friends have bought huge houses with 7% mortgages and we bought our more simpler paid off home. We’re out hiking/camping on the weekends with our kids and they spend their weekends fixing all the things that eventually break in large homes. 💸😂🤦‍♂️

[@kathy5706]

I knew there was a reason why you make so much sense - I grew up in NE Ohio too. Love your videos!

[@livingoncoffee]

What an interesting point of view. Makes sense to me.

[@janebishop5885]

Never have had a new car. Have two now that I've had for very long time....one us 24, the other is 22 and keep them in great shape. Was debt free at 46. I grew up in austerity and it was a great life lesson never to be forgotten. Though I am.frugal I am also generous. Would never go on a backpacking trip to Europe when there's so many things to see in this country. Many long hours to get where I am but it beats the alternative.

[@tomv7986]

I am happy I travelled in my 20s. I spend a month in Iran, stayed in the US, went to Tajikistan, Russia, Armenia, Thailand, Myanmar, Japan, Taiwan, Philippines and more. So worth it when you are young.

[@barbarariener6360]

From Idaho Nothing wrong with being frugal actually it’s smart. Appreciate your honesty and I too learned from my grandparents immigrants from Germany.

[@frantav327]

Just a quick note of appreciation. I've enjoyed your videos and gained a lot of insight from them. Thanks so much Azul !!

[@ryanreeves70]

Love the solid advice from people that practice what they teach.

[@davidfolts5893]

Frugality and cheapness, are worlds apart. It's all about intentionally finding value when spending money.

[@paulturner4419]

I’m glad I did my backpacking trip through south east Asia in 1989. Rather than obsessively saving 20-25% of income which is the usual financial mantra.

[@bmiles4131]

I didn’t have choices like that, but I’d tell anyone that does to go, go, go! It’s so much easier when you are young and nobody is going to miss starting the rat race or 401k a year or two later. I’d tell young people to be grateful to have that problem as so many work for years at jobs with no benefits. The experience of seeing other parts of the world at a young age seems priceless to me. Even if I can figure out how to do it financially at retirement, it won’t be the same as doing it with a youthful bounce in your step and less baggage, both mental and physical.

[@thefox1703]

Amen Brother, I’m 68 and I have never owned a new car in spite of the fact that I could buy a new car and pay cash for it. My Philosophy is to buy a used car that can take me from point A to point B. And I would drive it into the ground until the repair cost exceeds the purchase price. Most of the cars I had averaged 230,000 miles by the time I removed plates and donated them to “kars for kids”.

[@scottfromsouthcarolina3185]

I was raised in inner-city Cleveland. My parents were depression babies and had a lot of negativity. I'm semi-retired, work on-line in South Carolina now. Had to be close to the Grandchildren before they hit teens, then they don't want to hang out with Grandparents.

[@christinehoytaylor3026]

I’ve never seen your videos before, but you made me smile. Thank you.

[@dafydm3050]

Canada. Great Plan Azul. At 51 I was successfully treated for serious P Cancer, but paid the price. Grateful for every day. My earnings and life expectancy/QoL took a hit and I just retired end of year at 60. Thankfully I was frugal-ish.

[@kierandegrada2573]

Greetings from Ireland. I share your philosophy. 60 here and just starting life.

[@TheHonestFoodTeller]

Considering 25 acres a small land brings a smile to my face.

[@sw6118]

Frugal is great. Spend money where you must or where it makes you happy, or don’t spend it. Age discrimination is very real and once you’re over 50 you’ll be laid off first if there is a downturn. It is very unlikely that your next job will be an easy find or pay the same.

[@sandray7609]

I am frugal because I grew up with parents who didn’t manage money well. I told myself I wouldn't live paycheck to paycheck. We bought a small house and never moved, raising 2 kids in a 2 bedroom home. We have never bought a car, living in a city we walk, ride bikes, use transit and sometimes uber. We paid off our house in our early 40s. As my salary increased, I saved more - up to 50%. I am about to retire at 56 and we are in good financial shape. Paid for our kids education so they don't have debt. I never had the chance to backpack through Europe because I had bills to pay. We plan to travel and see places on our bucket list. I still have difficulty spending without getting a deal. It's ingrained in my DNA 😂

[@dforrest4503]

Nice video! Being frugal early allows you to be generous later in life. But you are correct that you still want to do some living when you’re young! I worked two or three jobs for the first 20 years of my career to help with that.

[@stephen5147]

I lived by your advice even though I had never heard your advice. I am a retired pilot (military & airlines) and have always spent significantly less than what I earned - resulting in becoming a multi-millionaire on a lifetime of modest income. At age 51 I owned 2 houses - mine & my mother’s. At age 54 I used investment money to pay them both off… that’s when I started to really accumulate wealth - when I had no debt at all. I plan to spend my remaining years living in a barndominium on an airpark, and flying a personal helicopter for fun. I hope to spend down my portfolio on flying aircraft, rather than leaving it to the kids… they don't need my help anyhow. My advice is likewise: Live on less than you make (way less if you can), and whatever you do STAY OUT OF DEBT.

[@jd3422]

You're right that your twenties are a good time to start saving. My first year of teaching, when I was 22, I earned $7,106 and I managed to save $3,000. Two years later, that became a significant portion of a down-payment on my first house.

[@glennthomasson1031]

13:29 hey, was surprised to hear you say you had your ATP. VERY COOL. I’m a private pilot for pleasure and wish I’d had your savy in the plane business - I’ve lost mostly on my planes but had many adventures. Do you still fly? Approaching retirement I’m trying to figure out how I’m going to stop. Don’t want to

[@worldchanges10]

Same I was raised malnourished wearing used clothes always having a used car so now I’m still living very frugal that I’m managed to hold on my house from the down economy many times over

[@RonChapman-z7q]

Hey Azul. Great video, as usual. We are also frugal; driving used, living in a smaller house. I think it would be fun to see you do a video of some of your frugal habits. I think that would be informative and fun to watch.

[@steveschott9855]

great stuff Azul -- loved your comment about it's in my DNA -- in the same boat here with both Grands and parrents -- retired this month and just settling in -- your words of wisdom resonate

[@remitremblay2091]

So interesting...but so out of character of the "new generation" that believe that there is NO tomorrow 🤔 We did the same, with a CPA background...and of course people say we are NOT the same as them...being both professionnals, we did really well...and kept it UNDER the radar...we managed to retire early (me in a few weeks well below 65))... to some... TOO early... ☺, but what about life! It's not ONLY about working long hours...it's also about enjoying the fruits of your "frugal" life 😎😎 Great video, AGAIN!. I simply wish, for the sake of the environment, that more people would become 'frugal'!!!

[@whisper2441]

I’m from Australia similar circs - retired a couple yrs ago at 55 and financially better than ever, 1 house 1 spouse, debt/mortgage free at 35 etc. I really liked your tip about having 3 versions of a workout 20 mins to 1 hour etc - no excuse now when I don’t make it to the gym/tennis can do quick workout at home. Keep up the good work : )

[@lee_banks]

Love your videos and the way you share your thoughts and experiences. Very authentic and unpretentious. Thank you Azul!

[@lailaatallah1857]

I love hearing your personal journey and thoughts. It’s inspiring that you’re catching up on your travel adventures now in your mid- to late-50’s. I also love Scotts Cheap flights. That’s crazy that you were a hang glider, BOUGHT & SOLD airplanes?!, and could have been a commercial pilot! Also love your take on being frugal opening up further adventures. Finally, I’ve never heard this idea of being debt free by 50yo, and your reasoning behind it. Makes a lot of sense.

[@laurab9518]

Someone needs to do a video though on women and being frugal. It’s so much harder for women to be frugal because society tells us to buy as much beauty and clothes products as we can

[@chindee8176]

Hi Azul. New subscriber here from Philippines. Your content is very inspiring. I am journeying into frugal living and this is helpful

[@topplacetoLive]

Your insights resonate, showing the power of mindful choices. Thanks for sharing your journey!

[@tccdlinux1471]

My parents taught me to be frugal, but I was not until it almost overwhelmed me. Then frugal, my friends used to laugh because even though I do buy new cars, I tend to keep them 15 or so years, about 300,000 miles. retired in 2022 and spent 7 months in Asia. In the Philippines now, bounce over to Thailand next month. Enjoy the travel and scuba diving. Frugal can just mean delayed enjoyment...and extended.

[@unitedstatesofpostamerica7559]

It was better to travel before smart phones, yea it easier now but because it’s easier everyone’s doing it. Back then it was more of an experience and adventure.

[@taylorstover3931]

Wow, we are the same re: cars, does not give me joy, but want a dependable, nice-enough looking auto...had two Volvo 240s for 19 years, a Subaru for 12 and now a used SUV for 5...the only car I might buy new would be the Subaru...loved that car...as I think about retirement, am wondering if I should buy something new or newer that will last me a long time...but dread the buying process so much that I just continue to repair whatever I have...love this video Azul! Thank you.💚💛🧡

[@patriciamoore3318]

Yess travel is the best ! At any age. Just got back fm Italy, 3 months. People think I’m a millionaire. I am rich I visualize plan for the goal to occur and it all comes about. You do in life what you want to do by choosing how you spend more money. You are def a kindred soul. I buy great used cars . Frugality minimalism is awesome. I’m debt free.

[@dlg5485]

There is absolutely nothing wrong with being frugal with spending, but there's also nothing wrong with being generous with spending, as long as you can afford it. Like most things in life, it's a matter of ability and personal preference. If you like to spend money, just make sure you have it to spend and don't carry any debt. Also, spending money on travel is still spending money. It's no different than buying a car or any other experience or material item. I'm very frugal as well because I am focusing like a laser on saving for retirement, but I plan to change that after I retire and spending more on travel, perhaps a small camper, etc... the kinds of thing that will enrich my retirement. That's why I'm saving, to not have to pinch pennies when I finally reach retirement. By the way, I totally agree about the car buying process. It's frustrating and infuriating! I just purchased a new Subaru and I plan on driving it for at least 15 years, just so I don't have to go thru that bs again haha.

[@dyates6380]

I'm very much like you. I spend little too, and it is also more like the way I was raised. Both my parents were very young when the depression hit, and they were raised with very little and it was ingrained into them and then into myself and my four siblings. I will say, the ONE thing I do "give" myself is a new vehicle every eight to ten or eleven years. I keep them much longer than most of my friends do too. However, I am very much aware of the "worst purchase you can make is a new car" and I totally understand and agree with it. It's just something I allow myself to have, which I thoroughly enjoy, pay cash for them and KEEP them for a LONG time and keep them in such good condition that I always get a great trade for it. So, I feel I get my money's worth out of it. I'd NEVER buy a new one if I traded them in every three or our years - that would be foolhardy.

[@alainmichaud6747]

i am not frugal , but when I buy is because I have the money for it , and I buy best quality to make it last longer . I have Ping golf stick I got them when I retired 7 year ago and they are very good and will keep them at least another 4 to 5 years if not longer . I bought a Can-am ryker at 60 ( 3 wheel motorcycle) and been riding for the last 3 year do the things you want to do. But no I will not change it every years to have the most recent model , this one is fun and suit my need and enjoy riding it .. I do what I can afford and enjoy time is to short enjoy life . Alain