She Strengthens

Transforming My Finances, Transforming My Life

As we celebrate Financial Awareness Month, I reflect on my personal journey towards financial freedom. It’s a path that began out of necessity but has evolved into a lifestyle that prioritizes emotional wellbeing and responsible spending.

The Wake-Up Call

In August 2020, I faced a harsh reality: I had accumulated $20,000 in debt from online shopping. The irony wasn’t lost on me – I had just graduated, landed a great job, and bought a house with my partner. But beneath the surface, I was struggling with anxiety, depression, and a sense of disconnection from my life.

The Shopping Addiction

Retail therapy became my coping mechanism, and I justified every unnecessary purchase as a reward for my hard work. But the truth was, I was using a line of credit to fuel my addiction. I wasn’t alone; millions of others had turned to online shopping as a form of instant gratification during the pandemic.

Breaking Free

Hitting rock bottom forced me to confront my addiction and its impact on my relationships and mental health. I discovered that getting out of debt required healing my relationship with my emotions first. Through online resources and self-reflection, I developed five practices that have transformed my life:

1. Mindfulness Journaling

Writing about my feelings and physical sensations has helped me address anxiety and refrain from impulsive spending. By acknowledging my emotions, I’ve learned to sit with discomfort instead of reaching for my wallet.

2. Zero-Based Budgeting

Creating a budget that accounts for every dollar has been a game-changer. I’ve realized that small daily purchases, not large ones, were driving my debt. This awareness has enabled me to prioritize my spending and allocate a significant portion towards debt repayment.

3. Reading for Self-Betterment

Daily reading has boosted my self-confidence and acceptance. Immersing myself in wellness and personal finance literature has made me more resilient and given me a healthier alternative to social media scrolling.

4. Long-Term Financial Planning

Brainstorming larger purchases I want to make in the next 3-5 years has helped me focus on what truly matters. I’ve asked myself what life goals I’d miss out on if I continued to impulse spend.

5. Letting Go of Unwanted Items

Releasing items that no longer serve me has been liberating. I’ve come to appreciate the experiences and relationships that bring me joy, rather than material possessions. This shift has also led me to adopt a more sustainable and minimalist lifestyle.

A Journey of Self-Discovery

While I still have a way to go, I’ve already reaped numerous benefits beyond debt repayment. I’ve deepened my connection to myself and my core values, and I feel more at ease with my emotions. My hope is that others will find inspiration in my story and embark on their own journey towards financial freedom and emotional wellbeing.