I retired in 2020. I have a mortgage & a car payment. However, the trick I have found - even more so than paying off necessary evils - like a mortgage & car payment is to get used to living below your means WHILE you are still working. When I worked, I traveled a lot - went to concerts - splurged on gifts for friends & family. But I also got into the habit of saving. And as you so perfectly stated - I never played the comparison game. Having gratitude for what you have & living with a sense of abundance instead of competition makes it easier to live within one's means. No matter what kind of income you have. I have see Humans who make 6 figures struggle to make ends meet. Thank you for you wisdom & insights!