My name is Anike. I am 29, and I live in Port Harcourt.
If you met me a few years ago, you would probably think I had everything figured out financially. The truth is, I did not. I was earning, spending, and constantly wondering why my money never seemed enough. Living in PH does not help either. Between the pepper soup joints on Ada George, the bole and fish spots you cannot walk past without stopping, and the pressure to always show up and show out, there is always somewhere your money wants to go.
It took time and a few uncomfortable lessons before I started changing how I relate to money. Not by earning dramatically more, but by learning how to live below my means without feeling like I was punishing myself.
Now, I do things differently. Here are nine ways I make it work.
- I stopped confusing pressure with needs
I used to feel like everything was necessary. A friend gets a new car and suddenly yours feels embarrassing. Everyone’s doing lunch at expensive spots and skipping feels like exclusion. A new phone drops and the one in your hand stops feeling good enough. Not everything urgent is important. Once I started separating real needs from pressure-driven spending, I immediately felt more in control.
- I give my money a plan before the month starts
Before my salary even settles properly, I already know where most of it is going. Rent, food, transport, savings. Even a simple plan removes confusion and helps me avoid impulse decisions.
- I save and invest before I spend
This was not always easy. I used to save what was left at the end of the month, which was usually nothing. Now I set aside savings first, even if it is small. It changed everything.
- I avoid upgrading my lifestyle every time I earn more
There was a time I believed every raise deserved a reward. That mindset kept me stuck. Now I try to maintain my current lifestyle even when my income improves.
- I cook more than I eat out
Living in Port Harcourt makes it tempting to eat out often. I still enjoy it sometimes, but I cook most of my meals at home. It is not just cheaper; it also gives me more control over my spending.
- I enjoy simple plans with friends
Not every outing has to be expensive. Some of my best moments are simple hangouts, visits, or quiet evenings with friends. Enjoyment does not have to come with pressure.
- I stopped comparing my life to what I see online
This one was important. Social media makes it look like everyone is doing more than you. Once I reduced comparison, I also reduced unnecessary spending.
- I keep a small emergency buffer
It is not a huge amount, but I try to keep something aside for unexpected situations. It stops me from going into panic mode when something unplanned happens.
- I automate my savings where I can
If I wait to “feel ready” to save, it usually does not happen. Automation makes it easier. It removes emotion from the process.
Looking back, I realise living below my means is not about restriction. It is about clarity.
I still enjoy my life in Port Harcourt. I go out, I rest, I spend on things I care about. The difference is that I am no longer spending from pressure or confusion.
Now, I spend with intention.
