[evm9]

Of the two (money coming in and money coming out), you can only restrict money going out so much.

You have your basic expenses you need to live (food, shelter, water), which cost most people at least tens of thousands per year.

If you live miserably only allowing money out to expense those needs, you're still only saving tens of thousands.

You have a lot more ability to increase money coming in than money going out.

I think this is the point OP's father was trying to make. Don't get stuck in a loop of allowing your employer to pay you $xx,xxx (or $1xx,xxx) for decades and restrict yourself for your whole life just to retire old and live an average lifestyle. Take control of your life and control your success.