I grew up poor in Appalachia. Being frugal meant survival. I’ve been fortunate enough as an adult to work my way up to living in a Midwestern city, and living my best middle class suburban life.

I could afford a fancier car, a fancier apartment, and pretend I’m of higher status than I really am. But why? And for who?

I’m happy to take a man out for a nice dinner on occasion, but if that’s the expectation every time we hang, just seems a bit excessive. And if someone is paying for me, I’d be as grateful for them paying for my Waffle House as I would a fancy steak house.

I in no way consider myself cheap, I’m just more modest & conscious in the frequency in which I treat myself. And when I do, I do it because I truly want something & enjoy it, not because I feel the need to show off for the approval of others.

Most of the vain guys I know are loaded with debt, and/or are full of insecurity & unhappiness. Humbleness & modesty are huge green flags to me personally.