No, but my pocket is really feeling it, hey. 2024 is showing my wallet flames. I am too scared to crave something, and SBWL my way into bankruptcy.

Even the price of bread... Haibo, it’s like everything keeps getting more out of reach.

At first, I thought it was just me struggling with stretching my coins till month end, I was kind of embarrassed, Not Gonna Lie. But then we visited some family on Sunday and I was relieved to hear that I wasn't alone in my feelings. Everyone’s talking about inflation, interest rates, and the economy, but what are we supposed to do with that information when we’re still trying to make it to the end of the month?

My auntie was telling my mom that she spent R1200 on groceries that used to cost her R500 last year. My uncle was like "The same money is coming in, and double is going out". We are defying the rules of physics, hebanna!

So it got me thinking – I gotta think outside the money box. How can I stretch my bucks a little further? Maybe even invest small-small? I’m not talking millions or fancy shares; I just want something that won’t leave me eating 2-minute noodles for the rest of the month. So I spoke to some friends (and did a bit of googling) and it turns out, you don’t need much to start saving or investing. Even a few rands here and there can make a difference. That surprised me.

Okay, imagine this: you’re earning R2500 a month. After sorting out bills, rent, and groceries, maybe you’ve got R700 left. Instead of splurging on takeaway or trying to keep up with the latest sneaker drop, take R250 and stash it away. It might not feel like much, but in a year, that’s R2500 just chilling in your savings. You could use that for a little getaway, put it towards studies, or start that business you’ve been dreaming of. And it all comes from being disciplined and consistent with that 10%.

You can even make it easier on yourself by setting up automatic transfers. I’m terrible at remembering, so having it move straight from my account as soon as I get paid is like saving myself from myself. Plus, I’ve been checking out savings apps that help keep track of everything. It's wild how fast those small bits add up.

But I also gotta be realistic, neh. There isn't always extra to put away. So I want to have a side hustle.

Everyone I know is doing something extra these days – whether it’s braiding hair after work, doing nails on weekends, or flipping vintage clothes online. It’s almost like having multiple streams of income is the new normal. That extra cash? It doesn’t just have to disappear into random spending. You can bank it and let it grow for a rainy day.

Speaking of money growing, stokvels are where it’s at—always has been. I joined one with a few friends a couple of years back, and honestly, it’s been a lifesaver. We each threw in a bit of cash every month. By the time December rolled around, the stash was solid – I had enough for my holiday groceries, gifts, and even a little something extra for myself. I’ll never forget that first year, feeling like I’d hacked the system. It’s not just the money though – being in a stokvel is also about community. We all keep each other in check, share tips, and help out when one of us needs a boost. It’s like financial teamwork. Plus, with so many different people in the group, you’re always learning something new.

The best part? You don’t need a ton of cash to start. Stokvels are the perfect way to invest small and steady. And it’s not just for groceries or holidays. Some people use their stokvels to pay school fees, save for property, or even kickstart businesses. It’s a game-changer, really. If you’re not in one yet, now’s a good time to consider it.

I keep reminding myself that while I’m outchea navigating life and trying to build my financial freedom, I’ve got to celebrate those small wins. Every time I save a little or avoid dipping into my emergency stash, it feels like a victory. As long as I keep making moves, I feel like I will get there. Whether it’s saving 10%, hustling for extra cash, or joining a stokvel, the future I am building is worth every effort. Consistency, discipline, and small steps – that’s the formula for me.