~Guide To Being Broke~

If you’re in college or thinking about applying to college, be prepared for loans, grants, financial aid, and having to buy some ridiculously expensive textbooks.  I can’t offer much advice regarding financial aid, but most colleges and high schools have qualified counselors and advisers who are willing and able help you figure out what’s right for you.

I had no money when I was in college.  I spent a week living in my truck on campus because I couldn’t afford the gas to drive back and forth from my house.  Being broke means compromise.  It means doing whatever you need to do (within reason) to survive.  I’m not saying that it’s okay to rob a bank, or sell drugs to afford your college tuition, but when you’re broke, you will make sacrifices and lifestyle choices you’ve never anticipated.

I spent a majority of my time at college feeling jealous of my peers. It came naturally – sulking around, comparing my life to the seemingly carefree lives of the kids in my classes. I fantasized about switching bodies with a wealthy stranger, about how I’d write my family a massive check.  I dreamed of driving home in a range rover and stopping for dinner wherever I wanted to.

The daydreams and fantasies were really my way of avoiding the elephant in the room, the fact that my unhappiness didn’t really have anything to do with my finances, but with the loss of my parents.  Focusing on money was an outlet – it was something concrete and it was one of the few aspects of my life in which I could exercise some control.

I can barely believe some of the things I said – the lies I told people just to avoid saying the truth out loud. I told someone I was a talent agent, that I managed the careers of stand-up comedians.

I’m not sure how productive it is to overanalyze the lies I’ve told, but this one was pretty transparent.  I wanted to be in charge of my life so I picked a career in which I was in charge of not only my life, but others’ lives, too. I was embarrassed to admit that I worked at a liquor store because I was afraid that people wouldn’t like me or find me interesting – they’d assume that I was a dead-end.

Even after I finally came to terms with what I saw as lackluster employment, I clarified my goals and aspirations after I mentioned my job.  I lacked confidence and embellishment was an easy way for me to increase the value (or at least the appearance of value) in my life.

This is an excerpt from my newest publication  – TMTS Handbook Guide To Being Broke.

Too Much Too Soon Guide To Being Broke shows how to adapt to a broke lifestyle while maintaining a positive outlook. This guide suggests practical answers on combating financial hardships and shows how to be successful at everyday life. Using stories and giving answers on how to date, pay bills, and save money all while being broke. This is an easy to read guide rich with philosophical observations and useful everyday tips to help let you feel like you have control over your wallet and life.

-Happy reading

To purchase TMTS Guide To Being Broke click HERE!

For more information on TMTS visit the site HERE!