I can't take pay cut but analyze: can I afford not to? Map financial reality: current expenses vs. necessary expenses vs. short-term sacrifice. Calculate: staying miserable for money vs. short-term cut for long-term gain vs. happiness. Show me the salary trap: golden handcuffs keep you prisoner. Give me the truth: lifestyle inflation is preventing change. Include: whether pay cut is actually unaffordable, what expenses are necessary, and if money is excuse.