What does it mean to 'live within your means'?

Living within your means refers to managing your expenses in a way that does not exceed your income. It involves creating a budget and making conscious financial decisions to ensure that you can cover your necessary expenses, such as housing, food, and transportation, without resorting to debt or overspending.

This concept is fundamental to good financial health, as it promotes saving and avoiding the pitfalls of accumulating debt. By spending only what you earn, you establish a solid foundation for financial stability and can prioritize activities such as saving for emergencies, retirement, or other financial goals.

The other options describe practices that can lead one to financial instability. For instance, maximizing spending while minimizing saving could quickly result in financial difficulties. Similarly, investing all income into assets without setting aside funds for living expenses can lead to cash flow issues, and relying on loans for daily expenses can trap individuals in cycles of debt. Thus, living within your means is essential for maintaining a balanced and sustainable financial life.