{
  "id": 8558969,
  "title": "MONEY THOUGHTS: Loosen the reins, slowly",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/19/money-thoughts-loosen-the-reins-slowly",
  "topic": "finance",
  "section": "Finance & Markets",
  "published": "2026-09-19T23:15:22.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "New Straits Times",
    "slug": "new-straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.nst.com.my/lifestyle/sunday-vibes/2026/09/1536355/money-thoughts-loosen-reins-slowly"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Moderation is key when it comes to spending money, according to financial experts. Excessive hedonism can lead to a frivolous, self-centered life, while extreme asceticism can result in a miserable, low-quality existence that impacts the whole family. As we age, healthcare costs will inevitably rise due to factors such as healthcare inflation and increased demand for medical services. To navigate this financial landscape, it's important to strike a healthy balance between hedonism and asceticism. In our early years, erring on the side of asceticism can help cultivate delayed gratification, which is a fundamental principle of financial planning. As income increases over time, gradually increase spending to improve the quality of life. Ultimately, the goal is to build a financial life with purpose and enjoy the fruits of your labor without compromising your family's financial well-being.",
  "summary": "DO you find it too easy or too difficult to give yourself permission to have a good time? Giving in to either extreme is less than ideal.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}