Four Things Smart People Are Cheap About After Middle Age
Discover the surprising secrets to a happier, more fulfilling life after 40. It’s not about money, it’s about priorities.
As we get older, we realize life is ours alone. It has nothing to do with anyone else.
Different ages bring different perspectives. As we mature, we see the world more clearly.
By middle age, we learn that truly smart people are cheap about four things.
My neighbor, Bill, is a retired guy who spends his days with his grandkids and playing chess.
Bill has three sons, all grown up with families of their own. His pension covers his needs, so his kids don’t worry about him much.
One son owns a company; the other two work out of town and rarely visit. Bill buys necessities and saves the rest.
His youngest two sons always try to get their hands on his savings. But Bill refuses. He says nobody touches that money until he’s gone.
They learned not to push it. Bill’s expenses are low, and his pension is enough. His youngest son is divorced and struggling to raise his kid alone.
Bill isn’t being heartless. He wants his son to be independent. That way, he’ll be okay when Bill is gone.
Cheap with Children
Every parent wants their kids to succeed. But too much love can hurt them. Parents may pamper them, but the real world won’t.
By middle age, we’re past halfway. Our kids are grown. We don’t need to do everything for them.
Some parents worry too much, creating entitled “boomerang kids.” Smart parents don’t spoil their children. They teach them to be independent. Not everyone is born with a silver spoon. Happiness comes from hard work.
Guide your children, but don’t make them dependent.
Cheap with Themselves
After middle age, focus on experiences, not possessions. Obsessing over material things makes life stressful. We worked hard in our youth to provide for our families.
But now, spend wisely. You can’t have it all. Sometimes, you have to give up something to gain something else. Being cheap with yourself isn’t bad; it’s called being frugal.
Cheap with Unworthy Social Circles
As we age, we learn to simplify. We meet all kinds of people, but not everyone deserves our time and energy.
Say no to pointless gatherings and groups. Keep your circle small and genuine. It’s a sign of self-respect.
Don’t waste time on people who don’t matter. Most are just fair-weather friends. Few will be there when you truly need them. Cut them loose.
Cheap with Ungrateful Relatives
Relatives are blood, but not all of them have your best interests at heart. Distance yourself from those who take you for granted.
When I was young, my family struggled. Relatives avoided us. Now that we’re doing better, they’re all friendly again.
My uncle is a gambler. He borrowed $2,000 from my dad and never paid it back. Dad didn’t make a fuss; he felt bad for him. But my uncle badmouthed us behind our backs. We cut him off.
Ungrateful people are everywhere. Don’t waste your time on them.
Being cheap isn’t always bad. With age comes experience and wisdom. Sometimes, being “cheap” makes life better. Not everyone deserves our generosity, and not every social circle is worth our time.
We all have different paths. Respect each other’s choices. If we care too much about what others think, we’ll never find happiness.
