Another drawback to living above your means: a lack of flexibility

[Gray Peachfuzz]

It seems that now the scales have been lifted from my eyes and there are mustaches sprouting all about out in the wild. This article would fit right into the Hedonic Adaptation train of thought, and it led to a new-to-me sister site, The Simple Dollar. This is known as "The borrower is a slave to the lender." Here's an exchange in the comments:

Sucka In The Making: I'm currently struggling with the desire to buy a new car. I DO NOT need it. I DO want it. Badly.

Mustachian-style Reply: You could always try for a compromise. Try finding a couple years older model that's lightly used if possible.

SITM: That's good advice. Unfortunately, as somewhat of a car guy, I'm keenly aware of the ways in which the newest model is different from older models. (Note: This is Mustachian for Tiny Details Exaggeration Syndrome, the ignorance of which is how one becomes a Sucka)

http://twocents.lifehacker.com/beware-the-golden-handcuffs-of-lifestyle-inflation-1697403584

In closing, Random New Math: Helmet = Accident + Remembering it  (http://assortedbitsofwisdom.com/New-Math-1

[zolotiyeruki]

Wow, that showed up on a gawker site?

The point is a very important one.  We like to talk about FI and FU money, but it really all just comes down to...well, self-determination and self-direction.  Being able to make decisions with less dependence on others, whether those "others" are family, banks, employers, etc.