Some people would think that I travel differently now that I own my own business, and I’m not expensing it all back to Microsoft.  Believe it or not, that isn’t the case.

I am a frugal guy by nature.  This is different than cheap.  I waste $70 per meal on The Rock, but won’t buy shoes that cost more than $40.

When I worked at Xbox, I used to go through the list of flights, and pick one of the cheaper ones.  I used to look at local hotels and stay at the Marriott across the street instead of the W 20 miles away.  I’d eat a Subway sandwich instead of getting room service.

That said, I want to be clear in my point - spending lots or being frugal should be a desicion - not a standard.

If spending $80 more per night means that you can rest easier the day before your presentation then do it.  If you want to splurge and get that Lobster dinner once per year on the road - indulge.

It’s not smart to be wasteful, but take a look at the big picture.  What are your costs when you factor in time, effort, stress, and worry?

I do, however, have one regret from my years of travel with Xbox.  I’d like to apologize to Quinn Edamura who had the pleasure of coming with me during December to Ensemble Studios, where we stayed at a Marriott, ate at what was basically a hospital cafeteria, and walked through the slush with our camera gear - all in an effort to save money.  I owe you a steak dude.