Okay, BeBes, let’s have a real, heart-to-heart talk. Some of us are facing tough times right now. Rent’s due, bills are piling up, and the idea of “building wealth” feels like a distant dream. I’m here to let you know, you’re not alone.
Financial Literacy: Not a Luxury, a Survival Tool
Right now, financial literacy isn’t about fancy investments. It’s about survival. It’s about taking back control when it feels like everything is spiraling. In 2025, financial literacy for us, right now, is about:
- Understanding Where Your Money Actually Goes: Not where you think it goes.
- Finding Every Possible Dollar: Even the small ones, to stretch what you have.
- Protecting Yourself from Predatory Systems: Recognizing scams and avoiding traps that keep us down.
- Knowing Your Rights: Understanding how to advocate for yourself when dealing with landlords, creditors, and employers.
Why is this important especially for us, right now?
Because we’re often the ones who get hit hardest when things get tight. We’re the ones who have to stretch every dollar until it screams. We’re the ones who are told to “pull ourselves up by our bootstraps” when we’re barely holding on.
But we’re also resilient. We’re resourceful. We’re survivors. And financial literacy, in its most basic form, is a survival tool.
5 Action Items When You’re Barely Making Ends Meet:
- Stop the Bleeding: Look at your spending, honestly. Where can you cut back? Even small changes add up. Cancel subscriptions you don’t use. Look for cheaper alternatives. Every dollar counts. It’s important not to deprive yourself of the things you like
- Negotiate, Negotiate, Negotiate: Call your utility companies, your internet provider, your landlord. Explain your situation. See if you can get a payment plan or a temporary reduction. You have more power than you think.
- Find Extra Income (Even Small Amounts): Look for side hustles, even if it’s just selling things you don’t need or doing odd jobs. Every bit helps.
- Know Your Resources: Look for local food banks, rental assistance programs, and other resources that can help you get through this tough time. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
- Focus on One Day at a Time: It’s overwhelming to think about the future right now. Focus on getting through today. Then, focus on tomorrow. Small wins build momentum.
This isn’t about shame. It’s about survival.
We’re not here to judge. We’re here to support. We’re here to remind you that you are not alone. This is temporary. You are strong, you are resilient, and you will get through this.
Let’s be real with each other. Share what you’re going through in the comments. Let’s lift each other up.
#SurvivalFinance #RealTalk #BlackWomen #WeGotThis #BudgetingBackwards
