​Your money or your life

​Dear Madams,

Let’s have a real talk about money. Not just about how much you make, but what your money is doing for you, and more importantly, what it’s costing you. We’ve all heard the phrase “your money or your life,” usually in movies about robbers. But for many of us, it’s not a dramatic movie scene; it’s a daily reality. The choices we make about our finances can either build a life of freedom or one of constant stress.

​For too long, Nigerian women have been taught to be silent about money. We’re expected to be homemakers, to manage the small change given to us by our husbands or fathers, and not to question or demand our own financial independence. But times are changing, and so should our mindset. Your money is a tool for building the life you want, not just a means to survive.

​Think about it: have you ever felt trapped in a job you hate because the salary is good? Or stayed in a relationship that drains you because you’re financially dependent? These are not just emotional issues; they are financial ones. When you don’t have control over your own money, you give up control over your life. You are, in essence, trading your life for money, but on someone else’s terms.

​Taking control of your finances is the first step towards true freedom. It doesn’t mean you have to earn millions, or even that you have to be a boss. It means understanding your income and expenses. It means saving for a rainy day and investing for your future. It means being able to walk away from anything—or anyone—that doesn’t serve you, because you know you can stand on your own two feet.

​This isn’t just about big investments; it’s about small, consistent habits. It’s about creating a budget, no matter how small your income. It’s about learning how to save and making it a non-negotiable part of your life. It’s about building a side hustle, no matter how small, to create an extra stream of income. Every single naira you save and invest is a step towards your independence.

​It’s also about knowledge. You need to read, ask questions, and seek out financial advice. Get an accountability partner, join a finance community. I have one too. There are so many resources available now, from blogs to social media accounts dedicated to helping Nigerian women become financially literate. Don’t be afraid to ask a friend for advice or join a women’s investment group. The more you know, the more confident you’ll become in your financial decisions.

​Let’s break the cycle of financial dependency. Let’s make our money work for us, not the other way around. Your financial freedom is your personal superpower. It gives you the power to make your own choices, to pursue your dreams, and to protect yourself and your family. It’s a key to living a full and authentic life. So, ask yourself today: what are you doing to truly own your money, and in turn, own your life?

Now is the time.

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