If you set up automatic 401k deposits and direct deposit a percentage of your paycheck to Vanguard, you won't stress out about it at all. You'll just see a different number on your take-home paycheck, get used it it quickly, and go on enjoying yourself without stressing out.

Or at least that's my theory - I'm setting up that direct deposit situation today, and I'm planning on setting the percentage a lot higher than I would have before reading this article.

This is exactly the right thing to do. It takes a leap of faith, but you really do get used to the lower level of take-home pay quickly.

An added bonus is getting the Vanguard statement each month and seeing it grow.

I think you missed his point. But I will say the parent is not alone. :)