For those concerned/depressed about the "pretty basic" phase of life, I suggst you look to Bill Wise for enlightenment and inspiration as to how well "pretty basic" can be done.

Between the mizer who dies with a big bank account and no good memories and the adventurer who dies with a bag of memories but destitute and a burden on others, I think there is a middle ground. A ground where you spend at a rate suitable to your income on things that will give you good memories.