Sacrificing Short Term Pleasure for Long Term Success?

[MosDefinite]

Clothing and having a unique style is very dear to me, but considering my current lifestyle and goals I feel like it will set me back. Because I plan on pursing a very challenging career to become a physical therapist, and I want little to nothing to deter my level of focus in accomplishing that goal. Right now I'm not doing the best I can to say the least, and in regards to priorities I know what needs to be done. Ideally I see myself with a great paying career I love, while being able to splurge on the things I'm most passionate about. Such as dressing well. This is where my problem begins. I like buying clothes a lot but I know if I stop wasting money and begin to save while investing in my future, things will pan out a lot better. Currently I've been working on keeping my wardrobe very minimalistic, in my closet I have about 4 button-downs, 3 polos, 3 jackets, 3 sweaters, 2 pants, 2 jeans, 5 pairs of shoes and 1 coat. My assembly is very versatile and good for most situations, except the most formal of ones. Such as a professional interview or something of that nature. So I know in due time I'll have to invest in dressier clothing, but for now I'm fine. Now I know I can do things to further balance out my needs and wants like budgeting my money but I'd rather not. I've always been a fan of quality and budgeting a small income like mine just to continue buying cheap and decent quality clothing or "struggle splurging" for the good stuff doesn't seem worth it. Yes there are great sales all the time with good promo codes to help, but I guess I just want to live a very carefree yet financially conscious lifestyle. Where I don't have to wait for the things I want and buy them whenever I feel like it. So my question is should I continue to "budget" my money and accumulate good wardrobe pieces over time, or just work with the solid foundation I have and save my money while pursuing my career? To eventually reap the benefits of my hard work later. By the way, clothing isn't my one and only love so it's not like I'm choosing to make myself completely miserable for 7+ years. There's no way I'll survive then lol. Wisdom and honesty are always appreciated. Thanks.

 

[mensimageconsultant]

That doesn't sound adequate. Not even a sport jacket? What about dating? A larger, fresher rotation generally is desirable for that, to help not come across as staid. However, probably no more shoes are needed for a while.

 

[MosDefinite]

Sports jacket nah. I've thought about it but I don't see a need because I don't plan on entering the dating scene any time soon. Plus trying to find the right size for them off the rack or buying one to get tailored can be a annoying and expensive task. So once again I'd rather not. Just focused on my goals.