Chapter 1: Understanding the Middle Class

I have friends from various backgrounds, each with their distinct lifestyles and views on money. The primary distinction among them lies in their attitude towards financial status.

Those earning below minimum wage are refreshingly honest about their circumstances. They openly communicate their needs without pretense and often reach out for assistance. These individuals are frugal, cooking their meals and saving every last cent.

In contrast, the affluent people I know don’t flaunt their wealth. They don’t display flashy brands or expensive accessories. They possess refined tastes but prefer to keep them private.

Now, let’s discuss the middle-class individuals. They are typically employed and aspire to appear wealthy, often associating with those who are well-off. Some even go into debt to acquire luxury items.

Reflecting on my own past, I once succumbed to this mindset, striving for a façade of wealth. I remember purchasing a $35,000 SUV, a luxury in my country, and paying $700 monthly over five years. While I don’t regret that decision, I’ve learned to reassess my spending habits based on my income.

At one point, I desired a Rolex because my boss owned one. However, I dismissed that ambition as impractical, opting to wait until my income reaches $25,000 monthly.

The exhausting charade of pretending to be wealthy often leads to a cycle of living paycheck to paycheck. Many middle-class individuals possess nice things financed through loans, but a job loss can swiftly turn their lives upside down. This behavior reflects a limited mindset.

Section 1.1: The Dangers of Living Beyond One's Means

These pretentious middle-class earners often mask their financial insecurity with superficial possessions.

Subsection 1.1.1: The Illusion of Wealth

Chapter 2: Insights on Wealth Perception

The first video titled "15 Things That Scream 'I'm Pretending to be Upper Class'" delves into the behaviors and indicators of those who falsely present themselves as affluent. It highlights common traits and habits that reveal the underlying insecurities of this demographic.

The second video, "Why Rich People Love Pretending to Be Poor," explores the paradox of wealth perception. It discusses how some wealthy individuals choose to downplay their financial status and the reasons behind this behavior.