Bingo. I lived a similar situation (minus the post-education debt - yay Canada!) My lifestyle today isn't much different than what it was when I was a student

Bingo. I lived a similar situation (minus the post-education debt - yay Canada!) My lifestyle today isn't much different than what it was when I was a student other than the addition of a mortgage I can easily afford. I'm happy. I travel. I live. I just don't show off, nor do I get things for the sake of having them. By surrounding yourself with family and good friends, you can find happiness in so many other things than the material. EDIT: I forgot to mention, when I spend to live I won't spend on things, but I will on experience. I'll happily forgo the latest iGadget and a car that matches my socio-economic status and opt for an experience that will enrich my life in some way.