It’s easy to talk about money when things are good, when the bills are paid, the fridge is full, and there’s still something left to save or spend. But what about when things aren’t good? What about the nights you can’t sleep because your mind is calculating how to stretch your last cash until payday?
A lot of people are going through real financial pain, but it’s not something they post about. Most times, you’ll see people dressing well, smiling, posting “soft life” online, but deep down, they're drowning in debt or just barely surviving.
The worst part about financial pain is that it’s not just about lack of money. It’s about the shame that comes with it. It's the embarrassment of constantly borrowing, the guilt of not being able to help your family, and the silent frustration of knowing you’re trying your best, but it's still not enough.
There was a time I had to choose between eating and buying data. I laugh about it now, but then, it wasn’t funny. I remember walking past restaurants and inhaling the aroma like it was a full meal. I remember holding back tears because I didn’t want to look weak.
Nobody really prepares you for the emotional side of financial struggle. It affects your self esteem. It makes you question your worth. It makes you pull back from friends, skip events, and avoid certain conversations. You begin to isolate yourself, thinking no one will understand.
But here’s the truth: so many people are going through it, silently. The young man who looks fresh on Instagram might be owing four different people. The girl who’s always smiling might have maxed out her salary in two days. The guy with the fancy phone might not have transport fare to get home. That’s the painful reality.
Some of us are the first in our families to “make it,” and even when we haven't made anything yet, the expectations start to pile. You're supporting parents, siblings, cousin and no one stops to ask, “How are you coping?” They just assume you’re okay.
If you’re reading this and going through your own financial storm, please know you’re not alone. It's okay to feel overwhelmed. It's okay to cry. Just don’t give up. Keep pushing, keep learning, and keep improving your skills. Things can change, and they will. I've seen people go from zero to stability. Not because of luck, but because they stayed consistent even when things were tough.
Financial pain is real. But so is financial healing. One step at a time.
