Stop blaming the economy — this is why you’re still broke

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Money comes in, and just like that, it disappears. Poof. You check your bank app and as yourself, “Wait, who spent this money? Was it me?” Sounds painfully familiar?

What you might not realise is how often we spend on small, seemingly insignificant things. Individually, they don’t feel like a big deal, but over time? These things add up.

We spend mindlessly, and before we know it, those sneaky little expenses drain our accounts, slowly but steadily.

In a country where the economy is basically on vibes and survival mode, every rand matters. So, let’s call ourselves out a bit, shall we?

If any of this sounds like you, no judgment, just adjust.

1. Constantly buying “small” data bundles

Instead of small, frequent bundles, many telcos offer bigger, more cost-effective plans. But because you’re streaming YouTube sermons without Wi-Fi, you keep buying small chunks, and wasting money. A monthly plan or home Wi-Fi might feel like a lot upfront, but it saves you long term. Trust.

2. Emotional spending on food & drinks

You’re sad, so you order pizza. You’re happy, so you order shawarma. You’re bored? Hello, ice cream.

Food delivery apps, restaurants, and random street cravings are one of the biggest low-key money drainers. It’s not just the food itself, it’s the delivery fees, the extras, and the “let me just add one drink” mentality.

Eating out or ordering in once in a while is fine, but when it becomes your coping mechanism or weekend routine, your wallet starts to feel it.

Try meal prepping, eating at home, or gasp learning to cook that one thing you always buy.

3. Buying things to “feel among”

This one is for the soft life crew. You saw your friend rocking the latest sneakers, so you bought one too, even though rent is knocking. You booked that “staycation” because your fave influencer did it, even though your fridge is empty.

Social pressure is real, especially online. But trying to keep up with lifestyles you can’t afford is a fast-track ticket to being broke and stressed. Nobody’s saying don’t enjoy life, but ask yourself: is this spending for me, or for them?

Learn to admire without acquiring. Sometimes, looking is enough.

4. Subscribing to everything but using nothing

Let’s talk subscriptions. Netflix. Spotify. Apple Music. Showmax. YouTube Premium. And that fitness app you’ve never opened. You’re subscribed to five platforms but only actively use one.

The worst part? Some people even forget they subscribed, and those silent monthly debits just keep deducting. That’s your money, doing absolutely nothing.

Take a moment to review your subscriptions. Cancel what you don’t use. Or better still, share accounts with friends or family. You don’t need everything, and you definitely don’t need to pay for what you’re not using.

5. Over-reliance on Bolt/Uber/ride-hailing

Yes, public transport can be chaotic, but that Bolt habit? It’s eating your funds. A trip here and there, and by the end of the week, you’ve spent more than your weekly feeding budget on rides alone.

Sure, sometimes it’s necessary. But a little planning, like walking short distances, carpooling, or even taking public transport, can seriously cut your transport costs.

Being mobile is nice. Being broke? Not so much.

Don’t let your spending habits make it harder. Cut back where you can and spend wisely.