Many of us face financial constraints and pressure at some point in our lives. I've been there before when I lived in Australia back in 2013 and 10 years later I find myself back there on struggle street. The stakes feel higher this time round having a family and thinking about the sacrifices that have been made for me to create my own path.
In this newsletter, we'll explore some of the challenges that financial constraints and pressure create and share how I navigate through them.
Stress is the biggest challenge that welcomes you first. Money problems can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Thinking about how you're going to pay rent, wondering when the next pay check is coming, comparing your situation to others, doubting yourself and what you're trying to do has an impact on you mentally.
What has been extremely helpful for myself in this season is reaching out to friends who are walking a similar path, their advice is consistent saying "what you're going through is normal and part of the process". They encourage me and give me the reassurance to keep going. Opening up and being vulnerable about the situation has helped to alleviate the stress I feel at times.
Financial constraints can strain relationships. This has been a biggie within my marriage as money problems are one of the major contributing factors to arguments and it can even go as far as divorce in some cases. Even though there is an awareness of the circumstance it's the stress that creates tension which leads to altercations happening.
It's a strange thing to navigate as we know what's going on but it's the relationship we have with money that's different. However, not taking things personally has been my focus while trying to maintain a positive approach to the process. Although it's difficult it's essential to communicate openly and honestly with your partner or those around and to work together to find solutions.
Being self-employed and living off one income in today's climate while raising a child has been the hardest but also the most giving year and a half of my life - and I asked for it all. I wanted to create my own path, I asked Hinepanea to stop working to be with our son and we moved out of my parents knowing how difficult it was going to be. But I also asked for abundance and I trust this is the way towards it.
In summary, financial constraints and pressure can create a range of challenges, from stress to relationship strain. It's important to take care of your mental health because everything starts in the mind. Remind yourself of your why, stay positive and remain active with looking for opportunities to better your financial situation.
Remember, facing financial difficulties doesn't make you a failure. It's an opportunity to learn, grow, and come out stronger on the other side.
Ps let's talk more about money and remove the shame surrounding it.
Big Bless,
Ranz
