members and their systems

"  Relax. You're not the only one who can't process much."

It sounds offensive, Miller, try to process that. And I don't enjoy babysitting, though you do need it.

Don't drink, boat, snowmobile, fast cars, expensive meals, golf.  All comparable hobbies in cost.  Seek out bargains and used.  It can be one and done or a roller coaster.  It can be detective work, engineering, OCD or neurosis.

@tomic601 ...Thanks, getting sprung from Hotel Hospital today @ some point. *G*
Playing my Spotify playlist on the laptop in room now to 'speed up' the process.  The night shift likes my mess, the day crew doesn't seem to have an opinion...
Likely is gritting teeth and remaining 'professionally diplomatic' about it.

We've both have more serious matters and wretched bodies to deal with in our ways, after all....;)

"So exactly what is "social" justice, anyway? I mean, besides virtue signaling."
  Hmm, might want to move into the current world, and learn about more than what net worth means...   Some folks even believe in causes other than audio.

I think the OP's question was fine. To me it was more of a "How does one balance all the other normal expenses to achieve the goal?"

Like MC and others, I too packed my lunch every day when I did not need to. I paid off homes early (if financially wise). Cars never floated my boat so I kept the old Acura for 29 years. Luckily no kids/college to sweat.  I also carefully bought a lot of good used gear over the years.  Finally, as an audio cheapskate, I fortunately had three sets of mint speakers to trade (w/min. cash) to achieve my current used speakers.

I totally get the question; I had it myself in my 30s and 40s when still building towards my current gear. Plan as best as you can; good luck!

"So exactly what is "social" justice, anyway? I mean, besides virtue signaling."

Answering that question on an audio forum wouldn't do it justice so let's skip it.