Paycheck-to-Paycheck

Do you ever think that more money will fix your life? I know I did. I would change jobs for the increased income. I’m sure there are some people who don’t know that struggle of always wanting more. That’s fine. I’m not talking about them. I’m talking about the middle class, who no matter how much of an increase in pay they see, they find themselves in the same predicament: living paycheck to paycheck. Before you say, “I budget, I do all the things, and I’m not living paycheck to paycheck!” I’m also not talking about you. There’s obviously some group of people who figured out the solution of getting out of that lifestyle. I would get paid more, then get upset because I was back to the money struggle. Sure, my new place was bigger, and I had nicer things, but I was still using up my savings. It felt like I was only surviving. After some time, I realized I’m the problem.

I would pay higher rent, higher car payments for a better car, an increase in shopping, and delivery. I love delivery. It’s truly a luxury. I have everything delivered. From food, clothes, groceries, and anything I can buy, gets delivered. I could win the lottery, but I would most likely blow through it in a year. Being who I am as a person, most likely 3 months. I’d spend that last month trying to invest it. Luckily, I’ve gotten smarter with my finances. It took me years to realize the repeating pattern. I regret not noticing it earlier. This pattern has been playing in my face for years. Once I noticed it in others, it was impossible not to see it in myself.

Take this guy named Skuld; he didn’t come from riches, and everything he once had, he struggled and worked hard for what it. Conversations I had with him gave me the impression that he was book smart. When he moved up to a better position, his pay increase was significant. Just as I did, he also moved into a nicer place and purchased lovelier things. He would host get-togethers, and there was always a theme that he would shop for. His purchases did not come cheap. His life seemed quite luxurious. His shopping wasn’t limited to decorations. Every heartbreak seemed to be followed by a shopping spree and an alcoholic binge.

He soon was getting behind on rent and utility bills, and then he did something that I didn’t expect. He bought a dog. This was followed by him buying a kennel, a leash, a harness, fancy dog food, lots of toys, puzzles for dogs, puppy pads, and a collar. I recall having to hold his garage door open one day while he pulled out because the power went out due to nonpayment. If I remember correctly, he only lasted about a year at his new position. One day, the bosses told the whole team they needed to either work on their performance or quit. He quit that day. He did not have another source of income. It was quite worrisome. He had a new pet dog, was close to eviction, had a car payment, and had no money coming in. He eventually started bartending, but this was a decrease in income. He eventually sold furniture, left his dog with a family member who lived on an acre, was evicted, and now rents a room. Sure, quitting his job was a huge downfall financially, but his money problems started  long before he quit.

Take this couple, Ethan and Grace, a model family: Ethan provides, and Grace stays home with the kids. He works hard to ensure his family has all the things, just as Grace makes sure the home is nurturing and comforting. Ethan has always done well for himself and his family. There never appeared to be a passing day that looked like a struggle. They were known to take family trips, weekend dinners to give Grace a break from cooking, and family outings. Everything seemed quite the perfect picture. At any family event, Grace would decorate the dining table. If it were the holidays, she would decorate the entire house. Their home was always nice and well decorated even when there wasn’t an event. You would never guess that money was an issue.

The more money Ethan made, the more luxurious Grace would shop. If there was a bonus from work, Grace would purchase new patio furniture and plants. It is quite lovely. Someone tried to speak with Grace about her savings, and she claimed they weren’t able to save. She also spoke of how great it would be to win the lottery. She claimed she would buy expensive cars and a bigger house. It didn’t stop there; she went on about the shopping sprees she’d like to have. Her husband had the same thoughts. Mind you, they lived in a 2-story 4-bedroom, 3-bath home that had bedrooms the size of large living rooms, a den, a dining area, an extra-large kitchen, and let's not forget a TV in every room. I’m surprised they didn’t have some in the restrooms.  Also, the master bedroom was the size of 2 of the largest bedrooms and came with an extra-large bathroom, equipped with a tub, a separate shower and “his-and-hers” sinks. When we talked, it gave the impression that they always wanted more.  I know Ethan; he makes a good amount. I always thought, if I made that much, I’d be set without a worry. Now that I’m close, I’ve realized I’m just as bad as Grace. This was my eye-opener.

How could I get better with money if I repeat the same pattern? I make more money, I spend more money. Why can’t the pattern of spending the same amount be my thing?  The amount I received would change, but the habit of spending more than I should didn’t. If I cooked more at home, then I can enjoy my weekly rib-eye steak without worrying if I’m spending too much. Honestly speaking, I just need to pick up more of my food instead of having it delivered. I really do spoil myself. Sometimes a little more than I can afford.