I’ve been asked about the car repairs and whether it was worth the money? 

After all, it is a Proton and 12 years old.  The cost of repairs will not be far short of what the whole car is worth!

This might be the case.

But I know the car will be in good shape and, even though it is 12 years old, it’s very reliable and the engine’s still only done 80,000 miles.  It is clean and comfortable, the bodywork is pretty good and it does nearly 40mpg.  There’s potentially a lot of life still left in it.

Plus, it is paid for and so there are no monthly payments to contend with! 

As a result, I don’t need a new car.  For me, the one I have is just fine.

I suppose the answer, though, really depends on what’s important for you and whether or not your identity is linked to material things like your car or house.  Whether having to display these expensive items – so called status symbols – is necessary for your self esteem or to show how (supposedly) wealthy you are.

Do you feel you have to ‘look the part’? 

Why?

And, who told you that?

Maybe you’ve been misled and hoodwinked…