Let’s be honest: Life doesn’t stop getting expensive just because your paycheck stays the same. I mean in this world we live in, there are expenses such as rent, gas, groceries, and other items that are constantly going up.
This time, I have found myself in this very spot. I work a regular full-time job, and this year – no promotion, no raise, no extra anything—just the same salary trying to stretch a little further each month. After noticing no salary increase, I became very disappointed for nearly two weeks. I reached out to my family and friends to share what happened and to vent my disappointment. I got tired of sulking in my disappointment, and instead, I decided to pause, pay attention, and make some quiet changes that helped me feel more in control—even without more money coming in.
Just to note, this is not how to post. I am not here to tell anyone how to live because we have different circumstances and how we do things may differ in that aspect. But I thought maybe sharing what’s been working for me might help someone else feel a little less alone.
I Started by Looking at What I Already Had
When the salary increase became real, I took a long look at what I already had. My closet, my food, and even my skillset. I realized I didn’t need to buy new books when I could go to the library and check them out to read. Also, I did not need to buy more clothes even though I am a thrifter when I needed to investigate my closet to see what I have not worn.
That shift in thinking—from “what do I need to buy?” to “what can I use?” was huge. I started to appreciate what I have.
I Gave My Spending a Reality Check
In my case, I usually track monthly expenses on MS Excel to usually see where my money is going and I started to notice some of the expenses I could possibly combine or just removed. But I also started to look at my bank statement and notice small purchases adding up – tea here and takeout there was eye opening. Again, no shame in those things, but I started choosing when they really mattered to me and letting the rest go.
It wasn’t about being strict. It was about being honest with myself.
I Found Value in Slowing Down
I started to look into watching YouTube videos online and reconnected with hobbies that didn’t cost anything. I started to look at skills to gain or learn for free and spent more quality time at home. Somehow, I started feeling more fulfilled, not less. Since my job currently provides access to LinkedIn Learning, I’ve started taking courses to build new skills and strengthen my resume—just in case I need to explore other job opportunities
I Made Peace with Saying “Not Right Now”
There were things I wanted, like traveling everyone, purchasing a new home. But I stopped looking at “not now” as failure. It’s just a pause. I can want those things and still be content with where I am.
I Let Go of the Shame
At one point, I felt so disappointed and embarrassed that my salary hadn’t changed. Like it reflected my worth or ambition. It felt like after all the hard work I did last year with staying up late, waking up early, and working on the weekends, I have learned that growth doesn’t always come with a pay bump. Sometimes growth looks like learning how to adapt, how to prioritize, how to thrive without external validation.
Conclusion
I will not pretend it is easy. Inflation and needs are real. But I have found that a shift in perspective and a few intentional moves can make a world of difference. If you’re currently facing a season without a salary increase, how have you managed or adapted?