[Seahawk]

The basics of financial health haven't changed since the Silk Road.

The percentages of where your money should go in the average, successful life, unless there is a financial windfall, are so well know I am always surprised when families are surprised at their un-tethered financial decisions and the impacts. I could cut and paste a thousand web sites that outline age related investments, risk, etc. Not knowing how to be financially solvent (assuming a normal economy) is irresponsible.

Debt, unless the risk is understood and the consequences acceptable, crushes most retirement dreams; as does daily spending that prevents investment, spending on non-essentials.

Financial acumen is not taught in this country, nor are the basics of a household budget...all the stuff I learned early.

My Daughter's FJ Cruiser, a 2007 we bought for her in 2008 off lease when she was in HS, finally began to have issues last week. She called and we discussed all her options. She loved the FJ but at 230k miles we did the math, worked the numbers and she decided to sell it with full disclosure and get a used 2019 4Runner. We also ran the life-style numbers.

She has a business degree and background.

The financial guy at the Toyota dealership told her it is very rare that he deals with people her age that are as solvent as she is, have the ability to pivot and get a car like she did. A little tear formed when she relayed the info.

I am not cheap or penurious: you can budget sloth and indiscretion but it takes discipline.

Trust me.