Why We Keep Complaining About Being Broke: A Hard Look at Money, Lifestyle, and Financial Literacy

Let’s talk about money.

It feels like everyone is constantly complaining about being broke, and I’ll admit—I’m guilty too. The economy isn’t exactly thriving, and navigating this financial landscape can be tough. But is it really that bad? Or are we just caught in a cycle of spending more as we earn more, falling victim to what’s known as lifestyle creep?

The Reality of Lifestyle Creep

The truth is, people will always feel like they don’t have enough money. Why? Because as income rises, so do expenses—and wants quickly become needs. Suddenly, the basics aren’t enough. We want spa memberships, the latest gadgets, and more trips than our bank accounts can handle. But are these things truly necessary? Often, they’re not.

I’m not here to judge—trust me, I’ve made my fair share of impulse purchases. But the problem arises when we confuse wants with needs. Society has done a great job of highlighting mental health and the importance of self-care, but let’s be honest: using retail therapy as a solution for every bad day is not sustainable.

Financial Responsibility Starts With Awareness

I’ve come to terms with a hard truth: I am the root of my own financial struggles. It’s not just the economy. I don’t need to go shopping every week or indulge in luxury experiences. Those are choices. It’s crucial to recognize that many of us are in control of our financial situations, but we choose not to act on it.

Sure, emergencies happen. An unexpected bill can drain your savings. But what about the people who claim they’re broke while planning multiple vacations or splurging on unnecessary things? If you’re truly broke, booking trips should not be a priority. It’s about balancing your finances and making intentional choices.

Planning Ahead Makes a Difference

When I was in college, I dreamed of studying abroad. It wasn’t cheap, but I made it happen by planning a year in advance and saving diligently. Even though I spent more than I anticipated, I bounced back quickly because I had prepared. Planning matters. You can’t predict every expense, but building a safety net can help you avoid constant financial stress.

The Trend of “Crying Broke”

Interestingly, there’s a trend where people either flaunt their wealth or constantly declare they’re broke—sometimes both. Some of the “broke” crowd actually have decent savings but are reluctant to dip into them. Others flaunt wealth they don’t actually have.

It’s time we drop the façade. Complaining about being broke while ignoring financial literacy and responsible spending won’t solve anything.

The Importance of Financial Literacy

I didn’t grow up learning about money management, but I’ve made it a point to educate myself. It’s not about how much you earn—it’s about knowing where your money goes. Being financially literate means tracking your income and expenses, budgeting, and making informed decisions.

I’ve seen people in low-income communities stretch every dollar and still find ways to enjoy life. It wasn’t about having more money—it was about making what they had work.

Final Thoughts

If you’re tired of feeling broke, take a hard look at your finances. Understand your spending habits, distinguish between wants and needs, and plan for the future. Financial literacy is empowering, and while money may not buy happiness, managing it wisely can certainly reduce stress.

Let’s stop making excuses and start taking control.