Looking rich and being free are two different projects. One of them costs a lot more.

Appearing well off requires constant spending, because the look has to be maintained and other people’s attention resets quickly. Actual freedom is the opposite, built out of money you did not spend. The two pull in different directions, so most people quietly choose one and tell themselves they are doing both.

Look at your last ten purchases and mark which ones were for other people’s eyes. You do not have to feel bad about any of them, just see the split. Then keep one thing you would have spent this week and notice what having it available feels like.