Anatomy of a Midlife Crisis

After writing about my 2006 350Z here, here, and here, one of our daily readers recently requested an update. In short, how am I enjoying my midlife crisis after one year?

The term midlife crisis is officially defined as "A period of intense self-doubt and questioning that can occur in middle-aged individuals, typically between 40 and 60 years old. It's often characterized by feelings of dissatisfaction with one's life, a desire for change, and a sense of nostalgia or a longing to recapture youth."

First, I think the term midlife crisis is silly. I used to believe the hype, but I've come to understand something. "Midlife crises," if done well and for the right reasons, are anything but crises. In fact, they are the opposite. As I've watched them play out in other people's lives, and in my own, there's no "crisis" in play. Rather, it's a form of ultra-delayed gratification by responsibly purchasing something many years down the road instead of impulsively and destructively making a similar decision at a younger age. In my case, 17 years after I initially wanted to (and almost did) purchase it. This delayed gratification turned the same decision from a potentially destructive force in my life to a mere footnote.

With that context in mind, I want to share a reflection on the first year of owning my "midlife crisis." First, yes, it's been amazing. My family and I have created so many memories with it, and it adds a lot of value to my day-to-day. Here's what the first year cost for all that richness:

• Purchase Price: $9,000

• Tax and Tags: $605

• Repairs: $789

• Tows: $220 (which led to the above repairs!)

• Insurance: $816 ($68/month)

• Winter Storage: $500

So, after my initial purchase, I spent a total of $2,930 during the first year. In other words, it feels like the steal of the century. I've had a lot of people question and criticize the purchase, but in my mind, it was the biggest no-brainer imaginable. Luckily, I don't care too much what other people think. Otherwise, I'd spend my time, and a whole lot more money, doing far more ridiculous things that I don't even care about.

Here's my message today. Do what adds value to your life. Forget what other people think, expect, or say. If something will add tons of value to your life, amazing. Also, don't forget that you don't have to break the bank or damage your finances to do cool things. Get creative, have fun, and carve your own path.

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