Reply #84: But, but, but, [View All]

[tenshi816]

being in hock up to your eyeballs is patriotic! Why do you hate America?

Seriously though, you've got the right idea. I'm trying to do the same thing, and discovering (in a good way) just how many things I can live without. I don't have to have the newest electronic gadget. I don't need new clothes just for the sake of being trendy. I enjoy cooking and can eat well at home for a fraction of what it costs to dine out. Movies? I can wait for them to be shown on TV. It's nice to step back from the constant inducement to buy, buy, buy. This is the first time in my life I've ever lived within my means and without credit card debt, and it feels so good. I don't wake up at night anymore feeling buyer's remorse because I've overspent on something I shouldn't have bought in the first place.

The last time I was back home visiting my family, one of my cousins was wearing a t-shirt that said "shop 'til you drop", and boy does she ever. She's also in serious financial trouble, but just can't stay away from the mall.