I wonder when did it begin the transition in becoming more “adult” and being less cavalier with money usage. Back in my college days and earlier in my work career, not only did I spent every dollar I made, anything I want to purchase, once reconciling with the finances (at least I wasn’t leveraging credit cards to the hilt), I’d simply go buy it - no hesitation whatsoever.
These days, there’s immense amounts of hesitation. Big spending purchases are only done after massive amounts of analysis; pro and con chart, utility factor, and asking the ultimate question: do I really need it? Many times over I could’ve bought new wheels for my Miata, but prudent sensibilities have overruled and won out repeatedly. A stunning new OLED television would be splendidly nice indeed, but my now ancient 1080p set still soldiers on after five years. The five year ago me would’ve bought it already (precisely how I came to own the TV), without any feasibility study. The rationale was simple: if there’s a want and the bank account agrees, then it’s mine.
That mind-set has evolved. For example recently it took weeks to make the final decision on a new iMac.
Perhaps it’s all the books I’ve read about the dangers of materialism and how one should have financials in reserves in case shit hits the proverbial fan. Or perhaps I’ve come to realize that plenty of the items I bought back when didn’t necessarily add to my permanent happiness. It’s fleeting is what I’m attempting to say. Buying car parts and modifications just may be the stupidest thing ever when considering I don’t even own that car anymore. The current car remains, hard as the mind tries, completely stock.
I now see my little brother at the same stage in life: in the midst of college and having a part-time job with no worldly adult stuff to worry about. When boxes with Amazon Prime taped over arrive home at regular intervals, it’s quite the nostalgia.