re: What motivates people to live above their means?

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t is very simple. You can enjoy more now or enjoy more later. Isn't complicated at all. 

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I don't think this is the mindset that the OP is referring to. At least it's not how I look at it.

Some people just cannot manage money. It's ingrained into there personality that they spend what they have until it's gone.

My gf for example was this type of person. At 30 years old she lived paycheck to paycheck without so much as $1 in savings. I assure you she lived no life of luxury, and she surely wasn't enjoying life stressing about paying rent every month and not having enough money for groceries. Even when she made more money through bonuses or whatnot, it'd all be gone by next paycheck.

Thankfully I beat it in her head to be more prudent with money, and she does a lot better now, but still has plenty to work on. Her livelihood hasn't suffered a bit since she started spending less money, except that she is less stressed out now. It had nothing to do with enjoying life more now, it had everything to do with being responsible.