Never said it's easy. But spending much below your means is the only reasonable path to financial independence and wealth.

I for one don't want to live in a society that exclusively prioritizes now and doesn't sacrifice anything to plan for the future.

"A society grows great when old men plant trees in whose shade they know they shall never sit."

It's harder to plant the older you get though.

you might as well ask what's the point of insurance if you never wreck your car. I have some nice things, but none of them bring me as much peace as having a deep buffer for unexpected problems. if I learned that I would die in a month, I wouldn't be sad that I hadn't managed to burn all my money.

I am in the same mindset. I take deep satisfaction that I have something substantial to leave to my kids. I don't want to spend it on me. I don't like to travel, and I don't like "stuff." I have a few hobbies but they are not expensive.

>if I learned that I would die in a month, I wouldn't be sad that I hadn't managed to burn all my money.

I'd probably feel that way too. But I have to ask - how much thought have you really given it? I vaguely remember reading a surprising number of posts from HNW people that regretted not trying certain hobbies / activities when they were young enough fully enjoy them. That saying that no one on their deathbed says their biggest regret is that they didn't work harder, is probably a trope for a reason.

There's also the fact that most people have to spend. Build your own house? Grow your on food? Most people are buying those.