It never fails; there’s always that one person who never seems to have any money, but somehow, they have enough to get things that are a waste if you’re struggling financially.
We understand that not all broke people are wasting their money. Some people live paycheck to paycheck, and they’re broke because they don’t get paid enough. They still partake in life’s pleasures within reason because life’s too short not to.
On the flip side, some people are broke because they spend their money on stupid stuff all the time and never have money for what they actually need. Those are the folks we’re talking about!
1. Cigarettes
Even when money’s tight, it’s surprising how people always scrounge enough cash for their smokes. Obviously, the addictive nature of nicotine plays a role, as well as the comfort it brings during stressful times.
Whatever the reason, cigarettes or tobacco products often become a non-negotiable expense for many people who say they’re broke. They might skip meals or cut corners elsewhere, but when it comes to satisfying that craving, they somehow find a way. It’s a habit that digs deep into their pockets, even though they can ill afford it.
2. Alcoholic Drinks
When someone is broke, it seems like their financial restraints don’t apply to the bar. They always have bar money or a few dollars to grab a beer from the local convenience store.
No matter how dire the financial situation, whether it’s drowning sorrows, celebrating victories, or simply seeking social pleasure, drinks at bars seem to hold a special exemption from budget constraints.
Even if it means sacrificing essentials, some economically challenged individuals will always find a way to justify that extra round or that fancy cocktail. After all, who needs savings when you can have shots, right?
3. Lottery Tickets
The deceit of fast money only leads to a never-ending cycle of losing. Yet, in the face of struggle, some people still scrape together enough coins for lottery tickets or slot machines. It’s the allure of a quick fix, the dream of hitting the jackpot and magically solving all their problems overnight.
The temptation is too strong to resist despite the odds being stacked against them. Anything could happen, and maybe you’re that one-in-a-million person who does actually win. It makes for a lovely story about how you used your last five bucks for a ticket, and it paid off, but we wouldn’t advise you to risk it.
4. DoorDash
A lot of us have been down to our last 10 dollars, and that didn’t stop us from door dashing that delicious combo meal or personal pizza! Something about the convenience and instant gratification of fast food or dining out makes us yell Y.O.L.O. (You Only Live Once) even when money is tight.
We often prioritize satisfying our taste buds over sticking to a strict budget. After all, a tasty meal can provide temporary comfort during financial hardship; it doesn’t make it a healthy habit, though!
5. Movies
Many people feel they can afford to go to the movies, even when their wallets are thin. This entertainment expense always manages to sneak its way into the budget.
Despite the way too high cost of tickets and popcorn, those who are struggling often view these experiences as essential for maintaining their sanity. Or maybe they just don’t care and feel like it’s not a big deal to spend $20 at the movies if they have the necessities at home.
6. Streaming Subscriptions
Who’s been on their last leg and just can’t seem to discontinue their streaming subscriptions? Don’t be bashful; we’ve been there too! It’s the modern-day dilemma of being broke yet unable to part ways with our beloved shows and movies.
Regardless of being strapped for cash, canceling Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, or Apple TV+ feels like severing a lifeline. You get to binge-watch your favorite series and these subscriptions offer a brief break from the chaos of everyday life.
7. Expensive Gadgets
No money for the essentials? Doesn’t matter. The broke population will find a way to get the next iPhone or Galaxy, no matter what! It’s a phenomenon as puzzling as it is predictable: people manage to prioritize expensive electronics over basic necessities.
It has to be the appeal of cutting-edge features, peer pressure, or simply the desire to keep up with the Joneses. The need for the newest tech often trumps financial prudence. Barely getting groceries or delaying bill payments becomes acceptable; some individuals will go to great lengths to ensure they’re not left behind.
8. Designer Clothing or Accessories
Being broke and looking good is not mutually exclusive. Some people will let you know straight up that they’re going to get those Balenciaga shoes, Versace sunglasses, or whatever other label they fancy regardless—they need to have it.
It’s the prestige and the desire to make a statement, or perhaps even the need to feel confident in one’s appearance. One thing you may notice is that broke people aren’t strangers to choosing style over substance.
9. Concerts
This one is as funny as it is sad. It was shocking to see how many people were already broke or willing to go broke to attend Beyonce’s Renaissance tour concert! Between her, Taylor Swift, Drake, and a few others, money was not an issue, even if it should have been.
We get that you might not get another opportunity to see these people in your city for a very long time, but it’s not that serious. Those tickets often costs hundreds!
10. Car Upgrades
Some broke people only have a little money and are willing to spend it on tinting their windows, installing flashy rims, or adding aftermarket accessories. It makes no sense whatsoever.
What good are those spicy goodies added to a vehicle that you can’t afford to put gas in! While it seems like common sense not to blow the little money you do have on car parts that you don’t need, stranger things have happened.
11. Starbucks
“I’ll have an iced caramel macchiato grande, please,” are the words people utter confidently, knowing that they only have the exact amount for the expensive beverage in their checking account. Even when someone is broke, you can bet they’ll find a way to get their favorite Starbucks drink.
Some people act like it’s a drug that they need to have each day, or they can’t function. Well, while you can reason that it’s only $5 or $6, spending that each day obviously adds up and is money that could be used elsewhere.
12. Cosmetic Procedures or Beauty Products
The hair extensions, the fake lashes, the dope haircut—men and women alike will get the funds together to get themselves looking right. You’d be surprised how many people are going crazy about possibly not being able to afford their Botox injections and lavish skin care regimens while the rent is 15 days late.
You’ve got to pick and choose, folks. Beauty shouldn’t be more important than a roof over your head and food in the fridge. That weekly trip to Sephora is going to have to wait.
13. Vacations
Borrowing money that you can’t pay back to go on a vacation is crazy. Whether you take out a high-interest rate loan or borrow from friends and family, it’s asking for trouble. The desire to have fun is going to land you in a disastrous situation. It’s the likes of payday loans, pawn shop loans and high-interest credit cards that can quickly spiral into long-term financial ruin.
Broke people will go on a whole vacation and then need everyone else involved to pay their way for food, drinks, activities, etc, while they’re there. That’s annoying!
14. Nights Out
Broke people can always rally for nights out at the club. Make it make sense. How are you broke but able to get dressed up, pay to get into the club, and maybe even get a drink or two while you’re there?
Priorities; they’re all messed up. Just know that if you see someone you owe money to and you’re in the club, they’ll be livid. And rightfully so.
15. Gym Memberships
Don’t get us wrong, going to the gym is a good thing, but if you’re broke, you better whip out your favorite workout playlist and get to jogging around the block!
Situps are free. Push-ups Are free. Squats and lunges? Free and free! If you’re pinching pennies and trying to make ends meet at the moment, you’ll have to be okay with doing home workouts until you get back on your feet.
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