Money Tales of a Millennial: Journey to Financial Freedom

As I sat there, sipping my cold mojito on a solo date night, I couldn’t help but think about my financial journey as a young millennial living in Lagos, Nigeria. I was at the crossroads of financial independence and societal expectations, trying to navigate the complexities of adulting. My name is Emeka, and this is my money tale.

Growing up in Nigeria, I’ve always been intrigued by how money seems to control our lives. There’s the constant pressure to keep up appearances, the never-ending struggle to make ends meet, and the financial stress that takes a toll on our mental health. It’s like we’re all trapped in a never-ending cycle of anxiety, with our well-being hanging in the balance. Yet, we’re expected to magically figure it all out on our own, without any guidance or support. We all remember our parents telling us to “be careful with money o” and “money is the root of all evil” without really explaining what they really meant, leaving some of us with no choice but to deal with the weird treacherous landscape of personal finances alone. Of course, we all know these were consistent attempts at waving covetousness off our minds and we’re grateful for these warnings now, aren’t we? How else do I mind my business and cut my coat according to my size, in this busy city where everyone wants to ‘blow’?

Money Tales of a Millennial: The Journey to Financial Freedom 1

It’s hard to be honest. I’ve always wanted to live a quality life, but the pressure to have a socially acceptable status is real. Who doesn’t want to flex on social media with pictures from a getaway to an Island somewhere or show off trendy gadgets? I’ve always wanted to have that soft life. But the truth is, most of us are struggling, and the thought ofsaving for the future within all of this is like trying to find a needle in a haystack.

Every time I speak to my friends about money, we all rant about how hard it is to save even though smart saving has its many benefits. I’ve learned that having open and honest money conversations like this with my guys is therapeutic and super helpful. We share our struggles, exchange tips, and support each other when we can. But last year, something happened that made me realise that my own finances needed a makeover ASAP.

Money Tales of a Millennial: The Journey to Financial Freedom

We were out at our favourite bar, celebrating one of our guys’ birthday, and we were having the time of our lives. Midway through laughing, and drinking the night away, the tab came, and it was a shocker! We were able to split the bill, as we always did with the gomoney app but when I got home, I saw how bad my spending habits were. Expensive nights out like that even when we split bills are not favourable to my account as I earn less than most of us in that friendship circle.

That’s when I decided I needed a new plan, a new way to take control of my finances and even build a better future. Since I already bank with gomoney, I simply utilized the mobile app to help me navigate inflation and money management overall as an adult who wants to enjoy as much as possible. I started using the app more consistently, and I’ve been able to save more money per time, andtrack my spending effortlessly, all from the comfort of my smartphone.

It’s been seven months of intentionality and I’m grateful for the moment that got me here, and the journey so far. I know now that financial literacy and long-term planning are key to achieving financial freedom as a millennial. I’m no longer just living for the moment, I’m thinking about my future, delaying gratifications where necessary. Also, I acknowledge the ease that comes with having a reliable digital bank that doubles as an accountability partner providing the tools and knowledge I need to spend wisely and achieve smart financial goals. If you are currently at crossroads with your finances, then I think you need the gomoney app too. Cheers to figuring out life, one smart money move at a time!