In my 20s, I thought I had to look pretty to live, and in my 30s, I was under the illusion that I didn't need anything unless it was a luxury brand.

But now that I've just crossed into my 40s, I realize that even if I buy expensive things, if I don't use them, they just end up collecting dust.

It's clear now that comfort is what really matters.

I only take out the stylish items on weekends, and in my daily life, I've come to prefer comfort, which makes me think I've changed a lot.

In the past, I would spend half a day at the department store just to choose a foundation color, swayed by the sales staff.

There was so much fuss about lipstick coverage and shine. Now, just putting it on in under a minute before sending the kids to school is the best.

It's silly to have been nitpicking over minute differences that others couldn't even distinguish. Matte lipstick? I don't even have time to wait until I look pretty wearing it. These days, lip balm is king.

Luxury bags? Young people these days seem to have no interest in bags at all.

In the past, I would work part-time just to carry around a luxury item, and at weddings, there was a vibe where women would subtly check each other's bag brands, right?

But nowadays, kids don't care about that at all; they just carry their phones or throw on an eco bag.... People don't understand spending money on bags, so I feel self-conscious about carrying luxury items, fearing I'll be called an 'old-timer.'

Honestly, now that I spend all day picking up kids, grocery shopping, and running for coffee, I wonder why I ever carried a luxury bag.

They're heavy and hurt my wrist, and it hurts even more when they get a scratch. These days, I just carry a comfortable crossbody bag.

But the funny thing is, not carrying luxury items is no problem at all, and no one cares. I used to think bags evaluated me, but in today's atmosphere, someone who clings to their bag can seem outdated.

When I see young people living by the standard of comfort rather than trends, I think, ah... we really struggled for no reason.

The kitchen is the same.

Pretty pots? They're too heavy and might hurt my wrist. Expensive frying pans? The best ones are just light, non-stick, and easy to handle.

Even on my days off at home, it's the same. Stylish clothes end up not being worn because I go out less. After dozens of washes, comfortable t-shirts are the ones that survive. I have a few expensive high heels, but now that I've gained some weight, they hurt my feet, so I can't even wear them.

Living in OC, pretty houses and cars are so common. But everyone tries to live comfortably. They use sturdy strollers, wear comfortable shoes, and buy kids' clothes that are okay with a little dirt. They prioritize their own comfort over showing off to others.

I find that to be true. Ultimately, as I get older, it seems like life is less about decorating and more about enduring.

Less fatigue is ultimately a form of dignity. Living with adequate rest, less pain, and less discomfort is what truly matters.

I want to tell my 20-year-old self that it's not good things that make me happy, but comfortable things that protect me.