<prompt> Human: Hi Reddit, I wanted to tap into the collective wisdom of the group to get a reality check on the way that Im approaching my finances, especially as I waver on the right balance of saving and spending. Gross salary: 130k Bonuses and stock: target of 40-50k annually Maxing 401k 18k, plus 6 employer match Maxing HSA 3.4k 5 post-tax into Employee Stock Purchase Plan approx 550month Emergency fund of 14k Zero debtAfter all taxes and deductions, Im netting 5,100 per month. However, space for further saving and discretionary spending is hemmed in by my egregious rent 2,900 per month, thanks to the absurdity of housing in the San Francisco Bay Area.After budgeting out other costs fairly judiciously food, transportation, medical, etc, I have about 800-1000 extra each month. My instinct is to plunge that into savingsinvestment: Continue building emergency fund Save for ??? I dont really have any tangible goals--no wedding, house, kids on the horizon Backdoor Roth I have an existing Roth, but am now above the income cut-off for direct contributions Taxable Vanguard accountHowever, Im trying to balance that against what I could potentially spend the money on, if I could let myself be more comfortable with going ahead and budgeting it toward other items, and being content with my existing saving streams. For example: Fitness classesmemberships Going to more local events and activities Donating to charity Taking UberLyft more often to avoid slow public transit Day tripsIf I took that route, then I would look to my annual cash bonus and stock grants to fund my backdoor Roth and larger saving goals. Ive tracked every penny Ive spent in the last five years thanks, YNAB!, and so perhaps thats why Im having a hard time letting go and being comfortable with spending more of my paycheck, rather than seeing savings categories build up. I realize this is the epitome of first world problems--Im in a very fortunate and secure position, and am really trying to sort out how I approach my personal finances as part of my life to pursue happiness.  <response>: I would say your emergency fund needs some beefing up, even at the expense of contributing to your HSA, ESPP or 401k. If you have a 4000month in expenses which is pretty reasonable in SF given the rents, I would continue saving until I hit 25k. That would give you a solid 6 months worth of expenses.You can also take a look here: 