I worked hard. I got promoted. Got paid more. Kept my old lifestyle. Still worked hard, kept getting recognized with more responsibility and more money while keeping original lifestyle. It’s a gripping story which impresses the neighbors. (Not!)
Why on earth would you discuss your college payment plan with anyone but your spouse and your kid??? And you don’t need creativity here… just boring direct deposit from your paycheck into a college savings plan. And the discipline not to raid it when you want a vacation or a nicer car.