They said they live cheaply.

I think most people just don't get this. It's quite possible to be happy not spending that much money.

Living cheaply is relative though. I have no idea if this person’s living cheaply is doable on my current savings so it’s meaningless to me until I have some hard numbers.

The trick is living cheaply while earning. Not starting living cheaply only once the money-hose dries up. Obviously, this advice is too late for many people.