Chapter 7
AI, SAVING WITHOUT SACRIFICING QUALITY OF LIFE
Correlation between money and quality of life: generalities
Money as a means, not an end. Money facilitates access to decent housing, healthcare, education, food, and recreation. It does not automatically guarantee happiness or inner peace, but it does eliminate basic worries.
Direct relationship at low income levels: When a person's basic needs are not met, each increase in income greatly improves their quality of life. Example: going from not being able to eat well to being able to buy nutritious food generates a great change.
Decreasing relationship at high income levels: once essential needs are met, the impact of money on quality of life is less.
Beyond a certain point, more income does not mean greater well-being, but rather more stress or social pressure.
Intangible factors that complement money:
Physical and mental health.
Strong family and social relationships.
Quality free time and rest.
Purpose in life and personal fulfillment.
Well-managed money = peace of mind.
Saving, planning, and spending consciously reduces anxiety.
Financial education becomes a pillar of quality of life.
Balance is key: living obsessed with money reduces the quality of life. Completely ignoring it also brings problems. The key is to use it as a tool to live safely and enjoy meaningful experiences. "Money doesn't buy happiness, but it does buy the peace of mind that allows you to cultivate it."
Saving doesn't mean living in need or depriving yourself of the essentials, but rather learning to better manage your resources to enjoy the present while ensuring the future.
Change your mindset about money: see saving as a tool for freedom , not a punishment. Think in terms of priorities , not restrictions.
Practical savings habits: conscious spending plan : keep monthly records to identify money leaks.
The 50-30-20 rule : 50% for needs (housing, food, transportation).
30% for wants (leisure, travel, personal tastes).
20% for savings and investments.
Avoid impulse purchases : wait 24 hours before spending on something unplanned.
Choose quality over quantity : a good product lasts longer and avoids frequent replacements.
Save money by enjoying: cook more at home while still going out occasionally.
Look for free or low-cost activities (parks, museums, libraries).
Travel with planning: flexible dates, advance discounts.
Exchange services or skills with friends/family.
Technology as an ally: personal finance tracking apps. Online price comparison tools.
Planned purchases during discount seasons.
Benefits of this approach: greater financial peace of mind and less stress.
Freedom to seize opportunities.
Enjoy a balanced life: quality without waste.
In short: saving without sacrificing quality of life is an art that combines discipline, creativity, and clarity about what truly matters.
