conversation: User (girlfromchicago): "I'm 24.\n\nMy spending isn't out of control by any means. I'm saving about 10% of my 40k/year salary and I have a 6-month cushion.\n\nBut I do think that I fall prey to lifestyle creep. I treat myself to something expensive and then it turns into more of a habit and something I take for granted.\n\nA prime example is Uber/Lyft. I started taking Uber Pool because it actually made financial sense. But now it's really hard to wean myself off the habit because it's so part of my morning routine.\n\nI think it's partially because I have slightly older friends and coworkers who are more likely to spend money on things like slightly nicer furniture, gourmet food, or convenience services like food delivery.\n\nI'm also a big fan of BIFL-type stuff, so I'll buy things that are a little more expensive with the idea that I'm finally getting high-quality things because "that's what adults do."\n\nI'm in the process of switching jobs, and it's very likely that I'll see a ~50% salary bump when I do so. But I'm really worried that\nBut if I'm worried that if I start making an extra 1k/month, most of that 1k will go toward slightly more expensive presents and home decor instead of things that actually matter to me.\n\nI want to repeat, I'm not spending above my means.  If I was, I would cut back. I've done so in the past. It's about being thoughtful about "lifestyle upgrades" and making sure I'm spending on things that matter."
  Self: "Looks at things that give you a higher quality of life.\n\nIf you hate cleaning then spend a little bit to have a cleaner come in once a month.  If you hate cooking and dishes, then spend a bit more on eating out.\n\nAS long as you do not upgrade your car, home or vacations then most changes would be small and unlikely to affect you.\n"
  pandabear8888 (pandabear8888): "I disagree. The biggest part of lifestyle creep is the small things. They're less noticeable but add up fast. At just under 2k/year, a $5/day coffee habbit is easily as expensive as a mid-priced vacation. "
  Self: "I don't know anyone who actually has a cup a day habit.  Furthermore,  once in trouble you can easily cut the habit out.  Get a new car or home and it is significantly harder to unwind that mistake.  \n\nMy thought is that if you are a person who is thinking about life style creep then I imagine that you have some level of control and notice when spending gets out of hand.\n"
  User (girlfromchicago): "To be honest, I'm thinking more of small things (like a daily cup of coffee or daily lunches out) than big ones. "
  Poopybutt247 (Poopybutt247): "Download mint and track your spending for a month. See what you think you need to cut. The key is moderation and budgeting for when you are making serious money. tracking your spending will show you exactly where it's going "
  