These days, we frequently hear the statement, "I'm earning, but I still feel broke." It's confusing, to be honest. Because everything appears to be in order on paper. You don't take significant risks, have a steady employment, a fixed salary, and pleasant working hours. Why, then, does it still seem insufficient?
Let's be clear first: it's not because you lack gratitude.
You are appreciative. You picked this work, you show there each day, you get paid, and you like the consistency. However, it's not usually your income that causes you to feel broke. Sometimes it comes down to how you handle your income.
That's where the actual query arises:
"What's causing me to feel broke?"
The response may be awkward, but it is truthful.
Perhaps it's excessive spending.
Small, daily routines rather than a large, conspicuous one. Take food, for instance. It seems customary to buy lunch outside. RM10 here, or RM15 if you do an online order. Right then, it doesn't seem like much. However, it gradually depletes your finances without your knowledge when it turns into a daily routine.
Making a complete dinner is not the definition of cooking at home. It's sufficient to do anything basic. The objective is awareness rather than perfection. realizing that minor adjustments can have a significant impact.
Then follows wasteful spending.
You don't necessarily need something just because it's popular. When it comes to cosmetics, skincare, or clothing, consider this:
"Do I really need this, or am I just attracted to it because everyone else has it?"
Purchasing pleasant stuff is perfectly acceptable. However, your money would go aimlessly if all of your purchases are motivated by trends or impulse.
Saving money is another crucial aspect.
Sometimes we feel broke because we don't keep anything, rather than because we don't make enough money. There is no security if there are no savings. Even a steady salary can feel erratic without it.
Yes, you can consider having a second source of income if, despite everything, you still feel that it is insufficient. But not mindlessly.
Avoid making uninformed investments or trading decisions. That is dangerous. Rather, begin modestly. Something you comprehend. something you can handle. A basic side business might gradually generate additional revenue.
Ultimately, managing your finances doesn't mean limiting yourself. It's about being aware of your habits.
Because, yeah, everything is pricey in 2026. However, our spending habits have also evolved.
Therefore, consider the following before stating, "I don't earn enough":
"Am I making the proper use of the money I earn?"
Income is not always the issue.
It's the way of life we construct around it.
Mirhaa05 (hemirhaphysio@gmail.com) is a content creator under the Newswav Creator programme, where you get to express yourself, be a citizen journalist, and at the same time monetize your content & reach millions of users on Newswav. Log in to creator.newswav.com and become a Newswav Creator now!
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