She Strengthens

The Social Media Trap: Staying Focused on Financial Goals

As a 23-year-old, I’m no stranger to social media. In fact, I spend a significant amount of time scrolling through my feeds, watching friends post about their lavish dates, exotic vacations, and trendy outfits. Meanwhile, I’m at home, pinching pennies and saving for a second property.

The Temptation is Real

After making some big-ticket purchases early in life, including buying a duplex and getting married, I’ve had to prioritize my finances. But it’s hard to resist the temptation of social media, where everyone seems to be living their best lives. Businesses are reopening, and the FOMO (fear of missing out) is real. Trendy patios are serving up Instagram-worthy cocktails, and clothing stores are beckoning me to splurge. It’s a constant struggle to stay focused on my long-term financial goals.

My Strategies for Staying on Track

So, how do I resist the siren call of social media and stay committed to my financial strategy? Here are a few tactics that work for me:

Unfollowing Temptation

I used to think unfollowing friends on social media was a no-go. But I’ve realized that it’s necessary to prioritize my financial goals. I’ve unfollowed accounts that tempt me to spend unnecessarily, and it’s been liberating. I’ve also realized that my friends are in different life stages, and we can still be friends IRL without following each other on social media.

Cleaning House

Living in a small, cramped apartment with my husband and two dogs can be challenging. But intense cleaning has become a therapeutic activity for me. Not only does it keep me from scrolling through social media, but it also makes our living space more lovable. When I love where I live, I’m less tempted to spend money on expensive outings.

Low-Cost Fun

I’ve discovered that there are plenty of fun, social, and Instagrammable activities that don’t break the bank. Hiking with my husband and dogs, playing tennis with a $20 racket set, or simply enjoying a picnic in the park are all great ways to have fun without sacrificing my financial goals.

Staying True to Myself

Social media can make it feel like everyone is having more fun than me. But I’ve learned to remind myself that it’s okay to have different priorities than my friends. It’s okay to live a lifestyle that may not be easily showcased on Instagram. In the end, I know that my choice to save is right for me, and that’s what matters most.