Having more stuff, whether in a game or real life, causes micro stress because we have to manage it. It creates disorganization, and for someone like me, that in itself is stressful.
Final Fantasy games taught me that you have to earn money, manage it wisely and be selective in your purchases to achieve success in the game. Common sense stuff now, but we all have to start learning somewhere.
I’ve realized that the way I spent money on video games is similar to how I spend money today. Overall I like to play it safe and do my best to minimize risk.
Give me a few minutes playing a fun Chocobo race over some random single spell that’s going to sit at the bottom of my item list until finishing the game. Similarly, I’d much rather take a vacation in real life than upgrade to a nicer vehicle.
Real-life examples include spending extra time in the gym shooting free throws, using extra money to pay down your mortgage instead of spending elsewhere, or having a healthy daily breakfast instead of sugary cereal.