My spouse and I are very wealthy. Like retire today kinda wealthy and never work again. My husband works just to pay our bills for now but we are set for life whenever we want to tap into that money. My cousin says we are ridiculous for how we choose to live. We drive 1 car, we don’t eat out (I love to cook and it’s healthier for our fam), and we generally entertain our kids outside on the trail and park. We have worn the same clothes for the past 5-10 years. We just aren’t shopping kind of people. Are we ridiculous. If I’m being honest, our net worth is 3 million (cash, investments and property values today, no debt). Is it ridiculous we don’t buy stuff ? My cousin says we live like bums and he finds it ridiculous that we work and bring an income in from our rental properties. We also donate a lot of our money and buy nice gifts for others.
Read more on PeanutThe views expressed in community are solely the opinions of participants, and do not reflect those of Peanut.
Learn more about our guidelines.
I think it’s up to you what you do with your money and no one else’s business . All I would say though is if money isn’t a worry just live your life to the fullest , have lots of adventures for the kids ! Make the best memories they will never forget as a child . Materials aren’t everything but memories are and although I wasn’t brought in to a wealthy home my dad made sure we all got away on holiday and the best memories as a kid for me was those times . So if you have the money utilise it that way ! Other people will always be jealous and make comments . Maybe treat yourself to some new clothes though for sure 😜 xx

The only thing you’re doing wrong that I can see is not signing my adoption papers
He just made me feel kinda crummy. Like we don’t deserve the money we have because we don’t live large (and to be honest, I know people more well off than us who also keep their personal expenses on the smaller side). It just rubbed me the wrong way.

Every rich person I know/have met are all “stingy” (I mean this with no offence) and careful with their money. You dont get rich by spending unnecessarily.

It's not called being ridiculous it's called being frugal. I mean that is why you are wealthy; you know where every dollar is going.

It sounds like you are living the dream and raising your kid the right way. Don’t worry about what others say, ppl will always criticize, but it really seems like you are instilling the right values in your child

I love that for you! The moment I read “trail & park” tells me you’re a great pair of hands on mom and dad. That’s wholesome and beautiful for your family💕
If you enjoy cooking at home do it. Why should you apologize for your passions. You get to live your life and be present and show up in this world in the way that best brings you joy.
It’s the intentional conversations and wonderful memories you get to have with your loved ones and time well spent that matters.
💡Just food for thought———I believe it could be deeper. They could be just jealous of the joy in your life. Why else would anyone else “find the need & time” to bully someone else about “how to handle their finances.”
This person has given this too much thought.😂
That is so intrusive, tacky and none of their business! lol

If you spent your money the way he suggested, you won’t be wealthy anymore. Rich people don’t get rich by luck. It’s through smart spending which is what you’re doing. Please pass on your ‘investing wise’ and ‘spend minimum’ ways to your kids.
Thank you guys for your comments. Regardless of our income, I’d still choose this life. I think we bring ourselves richness by not the money we have, but how we are living life and emphasizing what is important. I grew up in poverty and financial stability was so important to have when I became a young adult. It’s been my dream to have my kids grow up in a financially stable and conscientious home. I had a very candid conversation with my cousin a little while back and I think to him, I will always be that poor family member to him, with parents on the outs (where as his family always had money growing up).

Sounds like he’s jealous! Don’t let him get to you, family can be some of the worst critics. I’m curious to hear your success story too if you’re willing to share!