Hey My Dear Steemian Friends,

According to the latest research (2018) 78% of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck. And prices on everyday needs continue to rise. Increased prices at the grocery store continues to skyrocket. Just a short five years ago, I was purchasing items listed as 5 for $5 ...now I'm buying the same items priced at 5 for $10. Oh my! When's it going to slow down...level off?

And if that's not enough, I'm scared to call a plumber to come fix my septic tank system when it needs general maintence...because he has a ridiculous service call fee just to discuss my problem.

I'm rambling on about my life's difficult moments here just so that I can talk about financial independence.

Do you desire debt freedom and working toward financial independence like me? Are you like me and 78% other Americans who live paycheck to paycheck and feel like your're drowning with no relief in sight?

I've lived paycheck to paycheck (and still doing it) most of my life. Yeah, there were times I was un-employed and had no paycheck at all. How did I get through the hard times then...when I couldn't pay any bills at all? Well, the answer is simple...I didn't pay anyone. But I'm a good American who firmly believes in paying what I owe only...not paying hidden fees and all the extras that banks and credit card companies tack on my monthly statement. Why should I help support their extravagant lifestyle anyway?

Yes, I know credit cards will rob you of happiness and keep you in bondage. Even though credit cards are convenient to use, especially at those times you may run short of money to meet your emergencies...but they will not allow you debt freedom.

So, what's the answer to financial independence? Most financial advisors will advise you to pay yourself first. Is it possible to do that if your're living from paycheck to paycheck while prices are rising everywhere and wages aren't? Then go get a second job. But wait! I've got kids to take care of that need me. They are my second job. So, what's the solution here?

I believe the solution is to create passive income and maybe one day your old debts will be paid off and you'll be able to pay cash for your needs and wants. Wants (is another topic for another post) are things we don't really need, but things that we desire which are promoted by the media.

Have you ever seen a new car being advertised without a sexy woman or man posed in the ad? I haven't. The reason being is that sex sells. Do we have to keep up with "The Jones" and have everything they have just so we can fit in? Not me, I want my own life choices that are not influenced by the media.

However, there are essentials that you are required of, for us to get and keep a job. Things like dependable transportation, cell phone and a certain dress attire. OH my... you gotta fit in to please the boss you know. Otherwise, there's always someone waiting to take your place in our shaky economy.
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But what does all this have to do with being financially free you ask? Everything really. You've got to have money to pay for all this or credit cards and debt. No wonder 78% of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck. And I believe that number 78% will increase yearly. Do you?

But here's the thing, I realize that I can't control my income while working for Corporate America. Yes, I may feel comfortable in my cozy office space, but will I ever achieve financial independence? No, I don't believe so, if I'm living paycheck to paycheck. That's why I've developed a new plan.

Steemit is my new plan for financial independence. When I see how much activity is going on in this platform, I get my hopes up. I see opportunity. I'm willing to "put out" whatever it takes to be successful on here.

Since I like writing and engaging with like minded people...I consider this to be the perfect job for me. I can work from home...thus saving fuel costs, parking fees, the new clothes to impress cost...and I don't have to drive a new expensive car. Finally, maybe I can stop living from paycheck to paycheck and breathe freely.!

Financial independence gives you your life back. Who likes having to pay monthly bills for items you no longer need or use? Wouldn't it be better to pay cash (if you have it) or do without so you can have peace of mind?

Well what does it take to be successful on Steemit? Just ask www.steemit.com/@jerrybanfield

You must know how to manage yourself and your time. Here is my strategy:
Get up at 5 a.m. and choose my topic that I'm going to write about to post...write it
Afterwards, I click on my replies button and engage with the community and make comments
Lastly, I read and study about Steemit, Dlive, and cryptocurrecy*

If you enjoyed my post, I always appreciate your up vote. Be sure to follow for more engaging posts and leave me a comment to let me know what you think about my perspective!