Even in worldly matters it is incorrect to always follow the customs of others. A good example of this is the tremendous amounts of money which many people are accustomed to spend, when even one who has no means extends himself to buy things which is “the custom” because he is embarrassed or because his household members push him. This method is incorrect as he should be careful only to spend on necessary things and according to his own means, and should not worry about the custom. Rather, he should do according to his own way.
This is only true on condition that it will not lead to conflict of any sort, and especially not with his household members. He should lead them on the right way with a sweet mouth and soft tongue, for peace is all-important.
