Your clear way to explain such living standard -so helpful on difficult economic times-, is a reality check for most of us.

It’s fun to enjoy goodies (not really needed) the market offers, but what you say:

- “who are trapped in jobs or other situations they hate because they simply cannot afford to change.”

It’s the description of being the owner of your life. The mere explanation of personal freedom.

I know a lot of people who are drowning in debt (I effectively have none) or with little debt but living paycheck to paycheck even with substantial income who are trapped in jobs or other situations they hate because they simply cannot afford to change.

In contrast, living below my means give me the freedom to change these at little more than a whim, which in turn makes it much easier and more pleasant to endure the (hopefully short term) pain I may encounter.

I have been ridiculed for living in a cheaper neighborhood than I could “afford”, for driving a smaller and and older car than my peers, for not wearing designer clothes, and for shopping at “discount” stores. However, when I look at those who have ridiculed me and see how they complain about their jobs or their high bills I just smile and bask in their karma.

Perhaps I am a glutton for freedom and flexibility.

One way to decrease gluttony that has worked very well for me, is to retire.

Don

Robert , I enjoyed your article and found it quite insightful

I’ve known people who claim their lives will improve and they will discover happiness if they find the right relationship, gain meaningful employment, earn more money, find a dream home in the area of their choice, save the money to buy that big screen TV, etc. However, after they attain these goals they seem no happier. In fact, some act as if their misery level has increased.

It is obvious that happiness isn’t an external process, although attaining materials things can certainly enhance the quality of life. Happiness is actually an internal process–it is spiritual. Happiness isn’t to be discovered in material objects and accomplishments. Happiness is a way of life. Happiness is living with purpose–having a mission in life.

P.S. Ayn Rand would be turning in her grave if she knew you were quoting Erich Fromm.

“Of course, they didn’t set out to kill him. They were simply fixated on saving a few bucks on some goodies Walmart was offering at discount prices. Imagine: In the midst of a collapsing economy and faced with the prospect of a dramatically lower standard of living, they were so addicted to a life of gluttony that they swallowed up Mr. Damour’s life in their haste to indulge themselves.”