Hit $50k in savings last month... but my coworker says I'm missing out on life

I overheard my coworker Jenna at lunch yesterday telling someone I'm 'hoarding cash' and should travel more. She said I'd regret not spending in my 30s. But I'm sitting here with a paid off 2018 Civic, no credit card debt, and a 6 month emergency fund. Meanwhile she's complaining about her $400 a month car payment. I get her point about experiences. But seeing that $50k number in my account gave me a peace I never had before. Can you really put a price on that security? What do you all think, is there a middle ground I'm missing?

2 comments

2 Comments

the_adam7d ago

I read somewhere that the whole "you might die tomorrow" argument for spending is actually kind of flawed. Statistically, you're way more likely to live into your 80s than die tonight, so having that $50k buffer means you're prepared for life, not scared of it. Jenna's car payment is just a choice she made, and $400 a month could cover a decent trip to Mexico every year if you wanted both savings and experiences. Sounds like you found a balance that works for you, and that's honestly harder to do than just spending everything.

caleb2627d ago

Man, that $50k mark hit different for me too when I hit it. I started putting 20% of every raise into savings instead of lifestyle creep and it was wild how quick it adds up. Jenna can say whatever but your bills are paid and you sleep good at night, that's something she clearly doesn't have.