Between rising rent, black tax, and inflation that keeps restricting your airflow, it’s easy to feel like your finances are running your life. So, if you’re feeling overwhelmed by your finances, you’re not alone. Salary enters at the end of the month, but by the 10th of the next month, you’re already calculating how to survive the rest of the month.
From entrepreneurs to tech bros, politicians and 9-to-5ers, everyone is feeling the heat.
Sometimes, the problem isn’t just that “money no dey” (you’re broke). It’s the constant pressure of bills piling up, family responsibilities, unpredictable expenses, or debt that keeps following you everywhere, like MTN. If you feel overwhelmed, here are practical ways to manage money stress.
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1. Track Where Your Money Is Going
Before you panic or start cutting off everything you love, take a deep breath, then track your expenses.
Start simple: for one week, write down every naira you spend, from transport to lunch, airtime, that ₦2,500 suya, and even black tax contributions. You can jot it in your phone’s Notes app, use a small notebook, or try a free app like Andromoney, Ivy Wallet, etc. You’ll be surprised how much the “small-small” (little) things add up.
Once you can see where your money actually goes, it becomes easier to plan, adjust, and stop the leakages. You might realise daily Bolt rides are silently draining ₦30k a month — or that your weekend hangouts cost more than you thought.
This daily expense tracking tip makes it easier to plan, adjust, identify and stop leaks. This simple act can ease the feeling of being lost in financial chaos.
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2. Create a Realistic Budget (Not a Fantasy Spreadsheet)
Many of us create budgets that appear impressive on paper but fall apart after just one week. Your budget shouldn’t punish you; it should reflect your real life.
Try this:
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Prioritise essentials — rent, transport, and feeding.
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Set aside something for emergencies (even if it’s ₦1,000 per week).
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Budget for enjoyment. Yes, you read that right. Life can’t be all work and stress.
Budgeting doesn’t mean saying “no” to everything. It means telling your money where to go before it disappears.
READ MORE: 7 Budget tricks Nigerians are using to survive on irregular income.
3. Look for Small, Smart Ways to Boost Your Income
You don’t have to start a big business to earn extra cash. Sometimes, it’s about finding small but consistent sources of income.
If you have a skill such as writing, design, baking, or teaching, consider offering it as a side hustle. You can start freelancing, sell thrift items online, manage social media pages, or even teach a digital skill. The world has become so advanced that there are also side hustles you can earn from using AI.
These small gigs can add breathing room to your finances. The goal isn’t to hustle till you burn out but to build a little buffer that gives you peace of mind and solves some petty financial needs.
READ ALSO: 10 side hustles and skills for students to learn before leaving the university.
4. Cut Costs Without Killing Your Joy
When money is tight, your first instinct is to stop spending completely, but that’s not sustainable and almost impossible. Instead, get creative.
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Cook more at home (meal prep saves a lot).
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Share rides or use public transport strategically.
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Buy in bulk with friends or family.
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Switch to cheaper alternatives without compromising quality.
You can live well even on a tight budget. The key is intentional spending
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5. Talk About It — Money Stress Is Not a Secret
We don’t talk enough about financial pressure in Nigeria. Everyone is pretending to have it figured out, but most people are struggling silently. Talking helps.
Open up to a trusted friend or follow online finance communities like Money Africa. You’ll realise you’re not alone. Sometimes, advice or shared financial experiences can open your eyes to smarter ways of managing your money.
6. Protect Your Mental Health
Money stress affects your sleep, mood, and confidence. You can’t think straight when you’re constantly anxious about bills.
Try journaling, exercising, or taking digital breaks: even short walks or meditation help. Remember, your mental health is a vital part of your overall wealth. No amount of hustle can replace a sense of peace of mind.
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You’re Doing Better Than You Think
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