Many people complain that their financial struggles stem from not earning enough. However, I often examine their spending habits and emphasize that the first step is to cut wasteful expenses. Individuals at all income levels face financial challenges, and simply increasing income won’t resolve the issue if they continue to spend on unnecessary items or don’t seek more affordable alternatives. Many are reluctant to change their lifestyle due to pride and the desire to maintain a certain image. If you find yourself in financial difficulty, it’s crucial to adjust your spending habits. There are immigrants who arrive in this country with nothing and manage to build successful lives; they often share homes with multiple families, shop at thrift stores, or rely on food banks. Instead of complaining, make tough decisions—it may take time, but the responsibility lies with you.
Past a certain point, yes. But up to a certain point you need to make more money because a person can only reduce expenses safely so much
I earn $68k with full custody of my two daughters, no child support, and my budget is tight. My mortgage is cheaper than renting, but I’m left with nothing. It feels like I might need a second job.
3 people for $68K, I think you are a rock star. You would live in a shed by me for that.
That’s nonsense. You clearly live where 70k is actially 30k. I raised two kids np on half that.
I could move downtown to save $300 on rent, but it’s unsafe with frequent crime and shootings.
I am sorry to hear about your struggles and you have my full respect for raising kids by yourself. I suggest you revisit budget allocation because with over 5k a month you should not have any problems paying mortgage and childcare expenses. Your taxes should be minimum with 3 dependents unless you don’t have full custody. Sometimes it takes a village - involve your friends and relatives to help out with looking after your daughters while you try to find another part time job. Tough times call for tough decisions.