I can be more flexible with my diet, can afford to vacation, I can put some money into savings, and I can outright purchase larger consumer items without saving.

These things are not negligible. I understand what you're saying, "more money, more problems", but being able to put money into a savings account and take a vacation are things that a large portion of people will never be able to do.

@NathanielThomas

I have worked since I was 12 yrs old, went to both college and university, and have never once made over $100k per year.

Currently I'm on a fixed income, have limited job opportunities and recently had to downsize to a rooming house as I couldn't afford my bachelor apartment anymore.

Do not equate your hardships with those of us who are facing living on the streets with one missed cheque.

The sheer audacity of saying you're a wage slave at 6 figures almost made me upvote because it was so funny.