10 Tips To Overcoming The Shame Of Being Broke

We can all expect to be broke at some point in our lives.

Some of us are better at hiding it than others, but it does happen and it’s not fun.

Being broke makes you feel powerless yet it doesn’t have to define you.

You shouldn’t feel ashamed about moments in your life where you’re tight on cash because it’s just that – a brief moment in time.

When you do have the low moments of feeling overwhelmed by your empty change purse try these tips.

Count your blessings

When you’re feeling down and out, think about the things that are going okay for you. Like your health, a roof over your head, and food to eat. All the basic necessities that we take for granted. Those things are more important than money or luxuries.

Sure, you may have to live with family or ride public transportation for a short time. However, consider yourself lucky to be alive with a comfortable place to lay your head.

Avoid your balance

Do you check and recheck your bank account balance subconsciously hoping it will change? Stop! Doing that will drive you insane. Instead focus on things that will change that balance. Believe me, that number won’t move unless you make a move.

Understand it’s temporary

Being broke isn’t a permanent state. It’s something that you have the power to change. When you have that sinking feeling in your gut that things feel hopeless remember it won’t last forever. Use that unpleasant feeling as motivation to pursue bigger and better things.

Share your feelings

If you’re usually guarded about your financial state try sharing how you feel with a very close circle of people. You don’t have to go into specifics. But you may find that others are in a similar situation as you and it’s nice to have a support system.

Come up with a plan

Make a budget. Being broke is only temporary if you plan to make a change. Review your spending habits to find out if you’re spending more on non-essential items than you can afford. If your income isn’t covering your expenses find a way to make more or find a way to spend less.

Follow personal finance blogs

Finding other people who have been in your shoes will help you feel less isolated. Many amazing people blog about money related issues – the good, bad, and ugly. Find a few bloggers that you can relate to and connect with them.

The bloggers of The Frugal Fab 5 are a great place to start. You can also search through this comprehensive list of Top Personal Finance Blogs.

Take a financial literacy class

Doing something to actively change your position can help you to feel less shameful. Try taking a financial literacy class to learn habits that will improve your finances.

There are a few financial literacy online classes offered like the Money Smart FDIC financial education program. You can also find classes locally provide by non-profits or community organizations.

Consider a seasonal part-time job

Now that the holiday season is upon us, many retail companies are looking for seasonal workers. Consider getting hired at one of your favorite retail stores on evenings or weekends to bring more money in. Working retail and receiving an employee discount during the holidays is a smart way to save coin on gifts.

Don’t compare yourself to others

The worst thing you can do while being broke is compare yourself to another person. Everyone’s journey is different. Someone will always have more than you. If you base your happiness on how you measure up to someone else you’ll never feel fulfilled.

Instead make the necessary steps to change your future. Once your finances improve you can look back on this period with pride. You defeated being broke and you have the personal finance tools to stay far away from it.