Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the concept of "downgrading" in various aspects of life, including consumption, education, and social interactions, as a strategy to cope with economic uncertainties and personal financial stability [14][101]. Consumption Downgrade - A new term "poor shopping" has emerged, indicating that people are now browsing stores without the intention to buy, reflecting a shift in consumer behavior towards more mindful spending [16][19]. - Individuals are becoming more conscious of unnecessary purchases, opting for alternatives and prioritizing savings over impulse buys [22][24]. - The article highlights a case of a high-income individual who, after facing financial strain, shifted from luxury spending to more frugal choices, leading to a sense of security and happiness [32][36]. Education Downgrade - The narrative includes a story of a parent who invested heavily in their child's education, only to find that the degree lost value, resulting in a low-paying job for the child [52][53]. - It emphasizes that excessive spending on education does not guarantee success, and many parents are now reconsidering their approach to educational investments [70][72]. - The article advocates for a more balanced approach to education, focusing on the child's well-being rather than solely on financial investment [73]. Social Downgrade - The article reflects on the futility of excessive socializing, where individuals spend significant amounts on maintaining relationships without tangible benefits [76][81]. - It cites a statistic indicating that over half of young people allocate more than 30% of their expenses to social activities, which can lead to financial strain [94]. - The conclusion encourages individuals to simplify their social lives, focusing on a few meaningful relationships rather than broad, costly social networks [98].