Frugality and strong aversion to spending money unnecessarily. I live in the Bay Area, in a one bedroom apartment, for $45k a year after tax, and I feel my life is generally rich of experiences: I have a pleasant bike commute to work, go to many restaurants, international travel, hiking, swimming in rivers, have a loving girlfriend, etc.

Most people simply do not believe me. They think you have to spend $200k+ for a decent lifestyle.