"Las personas que viven muy por debajo de sus medios disfrutan de una libertad que las personas ocupadas mejorando su estilo de vida no pueden imaginar."

Living below your means isn’t just about saving money—it’s about freedom. When you consciously spend less than you earn, you create a financial cushion. This cushion gives you the ability to make choices without constantly stressing about money. Imagine not feeling the pressure to take a job you hate just because it pays well, or the serenity of knowing you can handle an unexpected expense without breaking a sweat. That’s the true essence of financial freedom.

This idea has been echoed through history, especially during times of economic hardship. Think about the Great Depression. People had no choice but to live below their means. As a result, they developed a sense of resilience and creativity that many of us can’t even imagine today. They knew how to make the most of what they had, and that skill set them apart. They weren't enslaved by consumerism because they couldn’t afford to be.

Take my friend Sarah, for example. She’s a graphic designer. A few years ago, she decided to downsize her lifestyle. Instead of upgrading to a fancy apartment like most of her colleagues, she chose to live in a modest one-bedroom place. She didn’t buy the latest gadgets or dine at expensive restaurants. People raised their eyebrows and some even judged her, but what they didn’t see was the freedom she was gaining. When the pandemic hit and many of her peers struggled, Sarah was more than fine. She had savings, zero debt, and the flexibility to take a break if she wanted to. That’s freedom—the kind that comes from living below your means.

So, how do you apply this wisdom to your life? Start by assessing your needs versus your wants. It’s cliché but effective. Do you really need that new phone, or is your current one just fine? Think about your subscriptions and memberships. Are you using them? If not, cancel them. It’s about making conscious choices. Save and invest the difference. It’s amazing how quickly small savings can add up.

Imagine you’re at a crossroads. You’ve got a job offer that pays significantly more, but it requires you to move to an expensive city and work crazy hours. On the other hand, you have a job that pays decently, allows you to work remotely, and gives you time for your passions. If you’ve been living below your means, you’ve got a choice. You’re not forced to chase the higher paycheck. You can prioritize your well-being, your happiness.

I’m reminded of my cousin Tom. He’s a teacher—certainly not the highest-paying job. But he lives simply. He drives an old, reliable car, cooks at home, and finds joy in inexpensive hobbies like hiking and reading. His colleagues often complain about their financial stress, while Tom, with his modest lifestyle, has traveled the world and even taken a year off to write a book. He’s not shackled by debt or the need to constantly upgrade his life.

In short, living below your means isn’t about deprivation. It's about making space for what truly matters. It’s about giving yourself the freedom to choose, to live life on your own terms, and to enjoy peace of mind that those constantly upgrading can’t even begin to comprehend. So, why not give it a try? Start small, make conscious choices, and see how much freedom you can gain.