I genuinely feel like I wouldn't live that differently even if I suddenly became ultra-wealthy. Am I kidding myself?
Of course, I'd do all the obvious things, such as getting a bigger house, a newer car, and quitting work, but beyond that, I have no interest in an extravagant lifestyle—or at least that's what I tell myself.
By a bigger house, I mean one typical of upper-middle-class living. I've watched plenty of videos of people touring million-dollar mansions, and they all look too big, open, and sterile to me. I've seen cozier tiny homes than those. And by a newer car, I mean a 2017 model or so instead of the 2007 one I drive now.
Really, give me a nice cottage by the lake with some land and a big garage for all my tools and toys, and I'm all set. I much prefer the idea of "hidden wealth" over showing it off. I'm just kind of worried that I wouldn't be able to live up to my own expectations if push comes to shove, and there's really no way of testing that. Am I just kidding myself here?
I feel the same way about fame. Many people aspire to become successful YouTubers or such, but the idea of people recognizing me on the street sounds awful.
Well I know someone who regularly fantasizes about winning the lottery and the world of possibilities that would open up for them.
I'm sure more money could help with a lot of the stuff that life throws at you. But honestly, when I think about the things that I really want or would like to do... then it's rarely about money. For example, you want to become a photographer. It's not being unable to buy the priciest camera on the market that's holding you back. I even doubt if it's easier if you have the money to do just that.