Day job/budgeting for cards

[smrtn240]

Recently getting back into collecting and having discovered this fine board a few months ago, I have seen some extraordinary collections on here. Having met and talked to some experienced dealers at shows, some stating that they have collected for years and that it is there primary source of income..made me wonder how some aquired such an extensive collection. I try to budget myself with cards and do have a full time career job, but still can't see myself having such an astonishing collection as seen by many of you. Granted I'm in my 20's and getting started again on an adult collecting level, could use some tips or tricks in slowly building a nice high end collection as a possible investment while still enjoying this great hobby.