Funnily enough, it is because I have an analytical mind that I actually think I over optimized on my spend. I, like many I know in this industry, have been play

Funnily enough, it is because I have an analytical mind that I actually think I over optimized on my spend. I, like many I know in this industry, have been playing the credit card reward game since 2012. I live a very minimalistic lifestyle as far as buying things goes, but then plan out rounds of credit card applications and "manufactured spend" to rack up hundreds of thousands of points at minimal cost every year, and have used those points to fund nearly free travel for the past 6 years (mostly one summer vacation and holiday travel + weekend trips). I can't remember the last time I paid for a flight or hotel unless it was a really good deal and made more sense to use cash vs points. Have been fortunate to fly international business/first/suite class + stay in some really nice hotels.