Broke? Here’s Where to Start With Your Money

Let’s be real:
Being broke sucks.
Bills are due, your account’s almost empty, and every little thing feels like a big deal.

But here’s the good news — this isn’t the end. It’s just the starting point.

If you’re broke and don’t know what to do with your money, start here. One step at a time.

1. Know What’s Really Going On

Before anything else, you need to know where you stand.

Take a few minutes and write down:

  • How much money you make each month

  • What your regular bills are (rent, food, phone, etc.)

  • What you owe (credit cards, loans, friends)

  • How much money you actually have right now

It might feel uncomfortable, but knowing your numbers is the first step to changing them.

2. Cut Back to Just the Essentials

Right now, focus only on what you have to pay to get through the month:

  • Rent or housing

  • Food

  • Utilities

  • Transportation

Cut out everything else for now — subscriptions, takeout, shopping, random spending. You’re not doing this forever. Just until things feel stable.

3. Try to Save a Little (Yes, Even Now)

It might sound crazy to save money when you don’t have much, but even a few dollars helps.

Start with a tiny goal — maybe $20, or even $10. That becomes your “emergency stash.”

Ideas:

  • Sell something you don’t use

  • Skip one small thing this week and save the money

  • Do a quick side job (babysitting, dog walking, delivery)

It’s not about the amount. It’s about building the habit.

4. Avoid Making It Worse

When you’re broke, it’s tempting to swipe the credit card or take out a quick loan. But that usually just adds more stress later.

If you already have debt:

  • Try to make at least the minimum payments

  • Call the company — they might offer help or give you more time

  • Don’t take on more unless you really have to

This part’s hard. But it keeps future-you from being even more stressed.

5. Look for Any Way to Bring in Extra Cash

More income = more options. Even a little extra can make a big difference.

Ideas:

  • Ask for extra hours at work

  • Offer help to neighbors (cleaning, errands, tutoring)

  • Sell something you don’t need

  • Check for online freelance or gig work

You don’t need a new career. You just need a little breathing room.

6. Be Kind to Yourself

You’re not lazy. You’re not stupid. You’re not behind.

You’re just broke right now — and you're doing something about it. That’s a big deal.

This isn’t about being perfect. It’s about making small moves that add up over time. You’ve got this.

You don’t need to have it all figured out. You just need to start. 💛

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