She Strengthens

From Debt to Financial Freedom: My Journey

After graduating from college in 2011 with a substantial student loan debt of $25,000, I embarked on a mission to pay it off as quickly as possible. With a bit of luck and a lot of sacrifice, I landed a great job in the events industry, moved back in with my parents, and paid off my debt in under two years. This accomplishment remains one of my proudest moments.

Building Financial Habits

In 2013, I moved into a small apartment with a friend and continued to develop good financial habits. We allowed ourselves the occasional indulgence, like a fully stocked home bar, and took annual vacations, but always on a budget and with a purpose, such as volunteering. By the end of 2015, I had built up a small retirement savings, was debt-free, and had saved $5,000 for two long-held dreams: a road trip across the U.S. and moving to the west coast.

The Road Trip of a Lifetime

On January 2, 2016, I set off on a month-long road trip across the U.S., meticulously planning my budget and itinerary. I stayed with friends, in cheap hostels, and even splurged on unique experiences, like craft cocktails and regional cuisine. After visiting 20 states, I arrived in Vancouver, ready to start a new chapter of my life.

Adjusting to a New Reality

However, my financial situation took a hit when I failed to find a job in my field, and my retail job barely covered my expenses. I had to make significant changes to adapt to my new reality. Here are four key adjustments I made:

Embracing Free Entertainment

I stopped buying books and got a library card, which allowed me to continue reading without breaking the bank. This simple change has been a game-changer, and I’ve even discovered new authors and genres. Reading has become my favorite free hobby, and I’m on track to finish over 40 books this year.

Taking Advantage of Nature

Vancouver’s great outdoors has been a lifesaver. I spend my free time hiking, watching sunsets, and exploring parks and beaches. Being in nature makes me feel healthy, centered, and accomplished, even on days when I have no money to spend.

Rethinking Recreational Expenses

I’ve also made a conscious decision to switch from drinking to smoking marijuana, which has significantly reduced my recreational expenses. While this choice may not be for everyone, it’s worked for me, and I’ve even been able to enjoy free drinks on occasion, courtesy of Tinder dates.

Automating Savings and Bill Payments

Finally, I’ve continued to automate my savings and bill payments, a habit I developed during my more financially stable days. By paying myself first and setting aside a fixed amount each month, I’ve been able to build up my retirement savings and avoid overdraft fees. While my financial situation is far from ideal, I’m comforted by the knowledge that I’m making the most of my circumstances.