Frugality is freedom

I live in New York City. When I walk around, what do I see? Stores, stores, stores everywhere. On every block, there are places asking for your money. They sell food. Clothes. Furniture. Haircuts.

When I first began trying to be frugal, it was frustrating as hell. Everywhere you go, you're expected to spend money. Meet a friend for dinner or drinks and you need to spend money. Everywhere you look there are colorful signs promising delicious, enticing or life-improving things as long as you spend your money.

I took on the challenge of frugality and at first it was difficult. Then I made it a game to see just how little money I spend. Now I look at my bank account and I can account for every penny.

But one of the best things I've noticed is that now I feel a certain freedom when I walk around. There are all these places trying to sell me things but it doesn't affect me anymore. I know what they sell and I'm not buying. I've lost the want for things I never really needed anyway. It no longer pulls at me.

This isn't to say there aren't things I want that I can't have. There are plenty of things I'd like. But I no longer walk home thinking about what delicious treat I could buy from the convenience store. Or in which of these clothing stores I'll find the perfect outfit. I simply enjoy walking around without feeling like something in my wallet will improve my life in some way. And it is so liberating.