Tao of living: the sage inside the suit

It is a general perception among most, that a spiritual inclination is followed by Vairagya (dispassion, detachment), a disinterest in family affairs, a shrugging off of worldly responsibilities, a dying of ambitions, an austere lifestyle, simple eating and dressing, maybe an untrimmed beard as well.

Au contraire, a spiritual development is preceded and accompanied by a clarity of thoughts, inclinations and preferences. Most on the right path would find it easier to handle the daily affairs in a better manner, with a calmer mind and yes a certain degree of detachment towards the outcome of their actions due to their strong belief in god.

In short, walking on this path with our small steps, life is easier, happier and most importantly, prima facie indiscernible from the lives of others for an independent observer. The way to life is simple, it is as it was. The differences are inside the mind.
Does that mean abstaining from non vegetarian food or drinking/smoking is not required?
No, it means that when you are ready, you will not need the answer.

Plant the seed, water it, plant will grow, fruits will come. Futile to water the field before the seed is planted, futile to climb the tree before fruits have come.

It is better and more effective to just plant the seed, do the needful and get the fruits. No need to do more, no needs to do less.
"Sitting quietly, doing nothing, the spring comes and the grass grows."-Lao Tse
 Do not necessarily abstain from non vegetarian food, drinking etc before you are told from within. Do not be scared of marriage, its a step in the right direction.
Like good clothes, cars etc, use them.
The monk will not come with robe, he will grow inside.A Monk can grow inside a silk suit as well.
Do not try to wear the monk, be the monk. Be the sage inside that suit.