Quote Originally Posted by CA_in_NC View Post
I have a small loan payment, a small car payment and a house payment. That's it. No credit cards, etc. And we're a long ways towards saving for retirement.

But....I'm decidedly unhappy with my job. It's giving me headaches, high blood pressure and my Dr. has repeatedly told me to quit. I have little to no time for me. DH supports my leaving. And somehow, I'm having trouble giving it up because "we might need the $$". Or worse, my parents (divorced, 1 remarried) might need the $$. (neither can manage $$, both buy whatever they want and expect someone else to pay for it - I can't support them in good conscience - and haven't, but still feel like I should be able to just in case...) I don't even have a good relationship with them. *sigh* I was a whole lot happier when I had no money, and didn't feel like I had to be responsible for everyone's problems *sigh*
If your DH is clearly concerned about your job affecting your health, then you seriously need to rethink your career and where you want to go in future.

I'm like you...I like earning money as a form of insurance for the future which might have some surprises.

Need to separate your love for each of your parents and their money-spending habits. Love them , but only give money ..or better gift if used wisely. But well, by now, they won't change..

My parents are thrifty and responsible with $$...not credit card users. Probably greatest concern amongst siblings for them is to educate them on certain investment tools and taxes so that they won't get shafted. But no accountants in family....just savers......all of us.

So yea, I have lived simply when I was unemployed..but it's hard to watch daily, how one spends every dollar. There is a stress of constantly restricting oneself from even buying a food treaties or little things for self.

So to alleviate the stress...I went cycling every day.... there is nothing like free exploratory things to amuse oneself for hours....we should thank ourselves on this forum...we already are in love with some free exercise & entertainment (that is, after buying bike and right clothing).