"I knew people who died young... The best thing to do could be charge my credit cards to the max and enjoy life as best I can"
This argument relies on the assumption that 'getting nice things' yields 'enjoy[ing] life as best I can now'
This isn't necessarily true. Some people, myself included, feel much more satisfied living below our means. Above a base level, I don't think 'stuff' really makes us happier, and the security of having savings gives me peace of mind that is much more valuable and happiness-inducing than, say, an expensive car.
This argument relies on the assumption that 'getting nice things' yields 'enjoy[ing] life as best I can now'
This isn't necessarily true. Some people, myself included, feel much more satisfied living below our means. Above a base level, I don't think 'stuff' really makes us happier, and the security of having savings gives me peace of mind that is much more valuable and happiness-inducing than, say, an expensive car.