Why I'm Frugal: A Journey of Simple Pleasures

My partner asked me recently, "Why are you so frugal?" It’s a question I've heard countless times, and my answer remains steadfastly the same: there are three compelling reasons. The first is my upbringing and my family's background; the second is my obsession with quality, not quantity; and the third is my sensitivity to pleasure in simple things. Allow me to take you on a personal journey through these three facets of my life.

Upbringing

My parents were born into extreme poverty, a reality that shaped their lives and, consequently, mine. My father, orphaned at the tender age of five, had no official existence in the eyes of the state until he reached his teenage years. He faked documents just to get work in fabrics and construction, a testament to his resilience and sheer will to survive. My mother, on the other hand, grew up in an abusive household where women were burdened with obligations and stripped of respect. My grandparents demeaned her and stole from her until their last breaths.

Despite these adversities, my parents clawed their way out of the depths of their circumstances. They worked infinitely hard, broke through social barriers, and shattered personal limiting beliefs to become professionals. They vowed to provide a radically better life for their children, and they did just that.

From a young age, I developed an immense sense of gratitude and compassion for my parents. I never asked for more than what was given to me, which was always more than enough. As an adult, I found joy in evolving my mindset, embracing the challenge of personal growth with enthusiasm.

Quality vs. Quantity

The first time I realized I was poor was in third grade. I had just started at a new school, and a small group of kids made fun of my repurposed uniform, handed down from my older sister, and my brandless tennis shoes. This stung, but it also sparked a profound curiosity in me. I became fascinated with brands—what they were, why they were priced differently, and what value they offered to their users.

Back then, I didn’t have the vocabulary to describe what I was seeking, but I knew I was on a quest to understand value. Through my research and observations, I learned that the intrinsic value of an item heavily depends on the perception and understanding of the user. For me, quality always trumps quantity or brand names.

Today, I consider myself an outstanding shopper. I relish finding a good deal, not because it saves me money, but because it aligns with my value system—seeking out quality without the unnecessary frills.

Pleasure in Simple Things

There's a huge misconception that finding pleasure in simple things is a trait born out of poverty. Nothing could be further from the truth. It's about developing a deep appreciation for the wonders that the world offers. Some people turn to drugs to feel intensely, yet that power to feel is naturally within us, ready to be accessed at any moment.

I am profoundly blessed with my family, and their presence in my life makes me acutely aware of the miracle of their existence. Every day they are here is a gift. My favorite pleasures are indeed my greatest blessings: hearing my family members’ voices, receiving a hug and a kiss from my partner, spending time with friends chatting about ideas, making others feel valuable, my daily walks, and the quiet moments when I listen, feel, and observe the messages God sends me.

Owning material things only serves to help me take greater care of the blessings and simple pleasures in my life. My frugality is not about deprivation; it's about focusing on what truly matters and finding joy in the essence of life.

So, when my partner—or anyone—asks why I'm so frugal, I smile and share my story. It's a narrative of resilience, curiosity, and profound appreciation for the simple, beautiful aspects of life. It’s a story of a life lived in pursuit of genuine quality and enduring joy.