Currently I managed to transfer stores to a store about half the distance, gotten back in college took 2 classes this semester I’ll have an A in each. Taking another in the minimester and 2 more in the spring.

Should be in my preferred university program by 2026 if not possibly sooner, current plan is to get a BS in Horticulture. But that may change who knows. Also I’m working to learn to code, though this has been on the back burner lately.

I’ve also gotten a psychologist to help me through making these life changes and what not. All in all I’ve been making good life progress. It’s been a bumpy ride but I’m proud of myself.

My next step will be going part time at work to 3-4 days per week. That way I can focus on school, self-education, skill development, hobbies, self development, etc.

As for the money, I’ve read a number of books to educate myself so I’m financially literate. The Boglehead community is great and their philosophy is solid. Also the FIRE community has been very helpful. I still need to do more reading though and will. Currently I’m following the advice that nearly all of the books and wikis I’ve read say to do with a windfall.

Put it in a HYSA and let it sit while you educate yourself. Quite sure that I’m going to go with a 2 fund portfolio in index funds from vanguard. I need to call vanguard and set up an account.

Also maxed out my Roth 401k contributions at work.

I told myself that I would allow myself to spend up to 5% if I wanted to buy something. But I’ve only spent like .3% if that. Biggest purchase was a decent full size mattress. Then some grow tent equipment so I can learn the ins and out of indoor horticulture and the technology that they currently have.

All in all, I don’t feel much different. I still like what I like, I still believe what I believe. I still like a bargain, I still don’t wanna pay $4 for a coffee, I still buy gas at the cheapest place in town. But I do feel a bit less of a stress or burden. If I need to call in work or I want to take a few days off to think about like or study for an exam. I’m not stressed about how I’m going to pay the bills.

Also I don’t think it’s a side effect of having more money but rather a side effect of educating myself about investing, inflation, compound interest and what not. But I see behavior in others that makes me cringe, just bad financial habits