She Strengthens

Breaking Free from Debt and Social Pressure

For the past 15 months, my husband and I have been on a mission to pay off our staggering $84,000 debt, comprising consumer and student loans. We’ve made significant progress, having cleared $60,000, with $24,000 still to go. This journey has been a rollercoaster ride of emotions – challenging, yet liberating.

A Newfound Awareness

As we tackle our debt head-on, I’ve gained valuable insights into my own spending habits and those of my friends. I’ve come to realize that our cultural norms often prioritize material possessions and experiences over financial prudence. My friends, whom I cherish dearly, are no exception. We’ve shared countless adventures, from theme park escapades to fancy coffee dates. However, these indulgences have taken a toll on our finances, and our priorities have shifted.

The FOMO Trap

Social media has exacerbated the problem, making it difficult to resist the urge to splurge. Seeing my friends’ extravagant lifestyles on Facebook and Instagram triggered feelings of inadequacy and FOMO (Fear of Missing Out). It got to the point where I’d tear up over a picture of doughnuts! I knew I had to take drastic measures to avoid the constant reminders of what I couldn’t afford.

Unfollowing: A Liberating Decision

I made the conscious decision to unfollow my friends on social media. This wasn’t a reflection of our real-life friendships, but rather a necessary step to protect my mental and financial well-being. By doing so, I’ve avoided the guilt and temptation that came with scrolling through their feeds. I no longer feel pressured to keep up with their lavish spending, and our relationships have actually improved as a result.

The Power of Unsubscribing

Think about it: we wouldn’t hesitate to unsubscribe from emails or newsletters that tempt us to overspend. So, why not apply the same principle to social media? Our friends, often unwittingly, have become mini-influencers, promoting products and experiences that we may not need. By unfollowing them, we can break free from the constant barrage of consumerist messages and focus on our financial goals.

The Business of Social Media

It’s essential to recognize that social media marketing budgets have skyrocketed in recent years. Companies are investing heavily in “word of mouth” marketing, offering incentives for users to promote their products. While this strategy can be effective, it’s crucial to be aware of its impact on our spending habits. We must be cautious not to let social media dictate our financial decisions.

Separating Business from Pleasure

If you’re working towards a financial goal, don’t be afraid to take drastic measures to achieve it. Unfollowing friends or limiting your social media exposure may seem extreme, but it’s a small price to pay for financial freedom. Remember, it’s temporary, and the rewards will be worth it in the end.