In week 2 of my adult gap year, I’m sitting with a question that sounds simple but gets messy fast: how much money is enough? I think back to my first full-time paycheck—my coworker asked what I’d buy, and I said Doc Martens. I still have them. Back then, “enough” meant bills paid, groceries covered, and being able to send money back to my parents. But as my income grew, my lifestyle quietly grew with it too—nicer clothes, more dinners out, more comfort and convenience. The baseline moved, and my definition of “enough” moved right along with it (hello, lifestyle creep). This week I spent a lot of time catching up with friends and got the very NYC reminder of how expensive normal life is: $30–$50 dinners after tax and tip, Pilates, coffee, and ride shares when I’m running late or the subway feels unsafe at night. None of it feels excessive, but it adds up fast—especially when you’re stepping away from a steady paycheck. Before quitting, I made sure my finances could support the life I was choosing: diversified income streams beyond my 9–5, saved well over 18 months of expenses, kept living below my means, and made a long-term decision to keep housing costs reasonable. Right now, “enough” is runway, margin, and optionality—enough to think clearly, take risks without panic, and support the people I love.