She Strengthens

The Unconventional Path to Financial Stability

As a single mother, I’ve faced my fair share of financial struggles. With a 3-year-old to care for and bills piling up, I’ve had to think outside the box to make ends meet. That’s why I considered stripping – it seemed like a lucrative way to earn some extra cash. But when I looked into it, I was deterred by the exorbitant fees that dancers had to pay to the club owners.

A New Avenue: Sugaring

That’s when I turned my attention to sugaring, a form of dating where men pay for companionship. I created a profile on a sugaring site, hoping to find someone who could help me financially. The experience was eerily similar to regular dating, with plenty of creeps and losers lurking online. But then I met someone decent – a single, rich man with no kids who appreciated my intelligence and good looks. He took me out to fancy restaurants, and I was able to pocket some much-needed cash.

The First $500

I received my first payment of $500, and it was a huge relief. I used the money to pay off my overdraft, which had been plaguing me for months. With that weight lifted off my shoulders, I was able to focus on other pressing expenses. I spent $60 on my son’s school fundraiser, which had been looming over me for weeks. I also bought him a Batman costume for Halloween, complete with foam muscles that made him feel like a superhero.

Other Essential Expenses

The remaining money went towards basic necessities like food, gas, and cat supplies. I even treated myself to a candle, although I later regretted the purchase. It was a harsh reminder that even small indulgences can add up quickly.

Reflections on Sugaring

In the end, I didn’t find sugaring to be a sustainable solution for me. The time and energy required to maintain a relationship with someone I didn’t truly connect with wasn’t worth the financial benefits. As a mother, my priority is spending quality time with my son, and sugaring took me away from that. I’d rather find a partner who values me for who I am, both in and out of the bedroom.

About the Author

Rachel Wagner is a writer and instructor living in Newark, New Jersey. She writes about motherhood, higher education, and dating, among other topics. You can find more of her work at Rachel-Wagner.com.