That's never been a big problem with me. I've never been acquisitive or felt the need to have all of the expensive trappings of my neighbours. It took years, bu

That's never been a big problem with me. I've never been acquisitive or felt the need to have all of the expensive trappings of my neighbours. It took years, but I figured out what I need and what I don't. When I do find myself with the urge to keep up with the my neighbours, I stop and ask myself: 1. Do I really need that thing? 2. Will it make me happier or make my life better? 3. What are the longer-term costs (maintenance, depreciation, insurance, etc.)? 4. Is my money better spent elsewhere or just saved? Trying to keep up with the so-called Joneses is a zero sum game. It won't make you happier. It won't make you a better person. It won't improve your lifestyle. You might just wind up struggling to maintain a life that really isn't yours and isn't for you.