Lifestyle creep is the subtle, ongoing increase in spending that happens when your income grows. Often without conscious decision, leading you to feel just as strapped on $100,000 as you did on $60,000. To beat it, use the “First Slice Rule”: every time you get a raise or bonus, automatically put 50% into long-term investing, 30% into a specific savings goal, and only allow up to 20% for lifestyle upgrades. Make automation your discipline. I … Continue reading How to Avoid Lifestyle Creep: A 25-Year Planner’s “First Slice Rule” for Your Next Raise