You might have noticed people flaunting a glamorous lifestyle despite financial struggles. It’s a reality many face: living large but feeling poor. Let’s talk about how to spot if you or someone you know is in this situation.
1) Living on Credit
Do you treat yourself to a fancy dinner but avoid paying your student loans? That’s living on lifestyle credit. Recent stats show that around 60% of credit cardholders in the U.S. are living paycheck to paycheck, with half carrying debt from month to month. Are you spending, or just swiping your card with no plan?
2) Constantly “Between Opportunities”
Are you often saying you’re “between jobs” or “waiting for the next big thing”? As of March 2025, general unemployment is at a very low rate of 4.2%. Most people are working. If you or someone you know isn’t, it’s worth asking why.
3) Avoiding Money Talks in Relationships
When money comes up, do you or your partner brush it aside with excuses like “money doesn’t matter”? It may sound cute, but it can be a red flag. According to the Institute of Divorce Financial Analysts, financial issues are one of the top reasons for divorce. If you can’t talk about money early in a relationship, it may lead to trouble down the road.
4) Celebrating Assets You Don’t Have
Enjoy talking about cryptocurrencies and investments, but what if you lack real retirement savings? You’re not alone; 45% of U.S. households don’t have savings set aside for retirement. It’s easy to get caught up in hype. Ask yourself: Are you really building a financial future, or just chasing trends?
5) Relying Heavily on Others
If you find yourself often using a friend’s Wi-Fi or eating someone else’s groceries, that could signal deeper financial issues. A 2021 study highlighted that one-third of adults aged 18-34 are living at home. This dependency can create issues in adulthood.
Ask yourself:
- Do you or your partner have a solid financial foundation, or are you living in a fantasy?
- Are you building a future together, or merely taking care of each other’s weaknesses?
Remember, love should not add to your financial burdens. It should enhance your life and help you grow together, both emotionally and financially.