Perception

I don't know why it is but I've never been that bothered by the taxes that are taken out of my pay check. I know people who grumble about it constantly. A couple of years back I figured out one major difference between them and myself: I never really thought the money was mine to begin with.

When I get my paycheck I look at the amount on the check (after-taxes), not the amount the company paid me (before-taxes). Thus, I never really get the feeling that someone is taking my money.

Others, apparently, pay much more attention to their before tax income. I honestly couldn't tell you what mine is.

Does anyone else have this experience?