Some people move easily from a palace into a hut. Others feel deprived when their income falls below $300,000 a year or when their checking account falls below five figures. If you feel anxious and needy, you will have trouble moving forward.

At the same time, every monthly obligation can become a source of stress. I don't remember where I read this story: A senior physician, addressing new medical students was asked, "How can we avoid the stressful lifestyle -- the early heart attacks, addictions and strokes?" The older doctor answered simply, "Don't buy a big house."

What he meant was, "Don't stretch your spending to the limit."

When you live below your means, you can build your Nest Egg for Freedom. Here are three principles to keep in mind.

1. When you agree to make payments, your new possession becomes a member of the family. You gain satisfaction -- but you also limit your future options. I know people who insist a dog or cat is too much responsibility, while they blithely sign on the dotted line for jeeps, pick-ups, boats and custom furniture.

2. When you enjoy your career and your life, you usually spend less. Many of my friends and neighbors have embarked on second careers as artists or writers. And many of us stopped our cable television service because we are too busy living our real lives to watch shadowy figures on a screen. Shopping is no longer a recreation. Who has time or motivation? We're fulfilled by our work and our life.

3. Spending "for the family?" Every career coach meets midlife professionals who say, "I had to choose this path to please my parents. After all, they sacrificed for my future. Now I want to do something for me!"

   Your children need self-reliance, confidence, flexibility and a sense of humor. I'm not an expert on child-rearing. However, I believe you can help most by setting an example of living a happy, fulfilled life, and respecting dreams that might be different from your own.

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Cathy Goodwin, Ph.D., is an author, speaker and career/business consultant.Your Next Move Ezine: Read one each week and watch your choices grow! Subscribe Here. Time Management Makeover: Click here.