Buying photography gear feels productive.
Sometimes it is.
Sometimes it is just shopping with a camera attached.
Gear Solves Specific Problems
A longer lens solves a reach problem.
A faster lens solves a light or depth of field problem.
A better tripod solves a stability problem.
A larger card solves a storage problem.
The useful question is always the same: what problem am I trying to solve?
More Expensive Does Not Mean More Photographs
A new camera can improve autofocus, dynamic range, ergonomics or speed.
It cannot improve your ability to notice good light.
It cannot teach timing.
It cannot create composition.
It cannot make you go outside.
Buy for Constraints
If your current equipment prevents you from taking the photographs you want, upgrade.
If it does not, more equipment may simply give you more equipment.
I would rather understand the limitations of one camera than own five cameras I barely understand.
What Actually Matters
Gear matters when it removes a real limitation.
Skills matter when they improve every photograph you take.
That is a very different return on investment.