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Times they are a changing. The new way to show your success isn't with the latest tech toys or a fancy new car. Nope–the best evidence of a good life? Thriftiness!

A recent Pew research study reveals that Americans are redefining the way they view luxuries and necessities. And a whopping 80% of us have cut back spending in some way. The best news ... most people say they hardly miss what they cut back on!

We've been hearing lots of ideas–some ingenious, some outrageous–about how people are cutting back. Take a look at their stories (we've changed the names to protect the innocent!) and you tell us–is it skimping gone too far or just smart saving?

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