So I’m a young guy. I’m in a high income field and I have more than enough to buy a Porsche. My bosses make way more than me, but they all drive regular cars apart from the odd car enthusiast or so. I feel awkward driving a nicer car than my bosses to war since they make more than me, even though I can comfortably afford it, but for some reason it just feels wrong. Anyone been through the same?
Unless you’re in one of the top COL areas then at $250k they know they’re paying you enough for toys, so it shouldn’t be an issue. If you’re in Silicon Valley and you’ve stretched them for that comp package then it might send the wrong signal to show that a chunk of your income is disposable.
You do have to be careful because the people that determine your pay might view it as overpaying you… if they’re not car people then they could see it as akin to you walking around with a big gold and Diamond chain around your neck which makes them not want to pay you more.
It’s not right but it’s a reality that you have to play games in your career depending on the specific field. It’s especially true if your comp is mostly salary, + a modest discretionary bonus. If it’s all performance-based or -linked, then more likely they see it as a “good for them!” situation.