Self-reflection is crucial. I think it’s wonderful that you are mature and intelligent, and capable of admitting you may have miscalculated your purchase.

I always get annoyed when someone tries to impress me with a car, or a phone, or how much money they make. First of all, who cares about that? Secondly, having a bunch of “toys” and cash at the bank doesn’t have anything to do with you character. Having money is great, but if a person lacks personality, it doesn’t matter it they drive a Porsche or take a bus.

I also always make fun (not in a negative way) of my friends for wasting money on new cars. The fact that you pay $300/month doesn’t change the fact that you got yourself into an 8-year “slave” contract, and you’ll be out almost $30k when it’s over. I know many folks who make a minimum wage, yet they have a shiny brand new car. My colleague got herself a Range Rover after 3 months of starting her job. I, in the meantime, share a car with a family member and use transit when I can. And invest instead of spending.

People need some serious life and financial education.