I used to use it as a currency in the past (was approximately back in 2013-2015, I'm not sure) and I'm pretty sure I'd prefer not having spent that money for something that I could have bought with real money. Can't say I exactly regret it, since there was no possible way I could have predicted it, however, I'd rather have my BTC now.
If one has plenty of income to just live good, I think that he can afford to HODL. Meaning hold forever.
But the normal people have to spend - sooner or later - also parts of the investment. Of course, it can be spent well or it can be spent only for the sake of it.
But looking back and wishing you did different is counterproductive. I've spent too. I will probably invest more, I will probably spend more. Life goes on.
I see what you mean, however, I'm not rich by any means either. The only BTC I've got left is from signature campaigns, and it's not too much. I'm saving it for future usage/investment, not because I necessarily want to hold, waiting or hoping for its value to rise, but because I don't have the financial need to use it.
I'm currently working, thus, I use my paycheck in order to live by, if I didn't work, I would also consider using some of those funds.