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This story shows that frugality isn't just a habit; it's a strategic choice for high-achievers like her who focus on long-term goals. She does't fall into the consumerist lifestyle, not out of necessity, but as a calculated move to secure an early retirement and a comfortable future. However, the irony in Chrissy’s financial life is that her inheritance could actually enable her to spend more freely without jeopardizing her future financial independence. I think she might be unnecessarily missing out on life's smaller joys.

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You are right, and she may feel one way today, and another way in five years. "As of today," a baseline plan can be assembled and no family or interest in one is in Chrissy's lens. If she is on the fence today, then setting aside some funds makes sense and it is easy to play what-if by looking at how a living standard changes when savings amounts move higher and higher.

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I think Chrissy needs to decide what her future plans are when it comes to when and if she wants to start a family. Whether or not she wants to have a family at some point will be the single greatest tell on if her living standard will increase with this trust. If she wants children she would probably continue to save and put the extra money towards their education, child care services if she doesn't want to retire after having children, giving them experiences like trips or clubs, and possibly even leaving them a trust when she's gone.

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One thing that I believe needs to be taken more into consideration is whether and when she wants to start a family. This would very much affect her need to save more as opposed to investing. Unless these investments would yield quick results.

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Considering that Chrissy's main focus is saving, how may her financial stability be affected in the event of unforeseen circumstances (like health issues or unemployment)?

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What about using her change in spending to pump more into investing like her grandparents?

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Feb 29Liked by Robert Puelz

It's fascinating to see how her upbringing and the surprise inheritance play such pivotal roles in shaping her financial strategies and life choices.

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The analysis raises the question of how Chrissy could balance her current frugal lifestyle with her future financial security, especially considering her significant potential inheritance. It prompts curiosity about how she might strategically use her current assets and future to not only secure her retirement but also potentially increase her quality of life in the present without compromising her long-term financial goals.

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Would it make sense for Chrissy to contribute some of her change in spending to college funds or future inheritance? Even though she does not have plans to get married and have children yet, I think it would be a good idea to prepare in advance. You never what changes will happen in life. Is this a possible alternative?

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It will take a bite out of her living standard..." Ah, those gators.

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