Managing income is one thing I’m still learning every single day, and I won’t pretend like I have it all figured out. Growing up, nobody really sat me down to teach me “money management” like a school subject. In Nigeria and even in India, many of us just grow up watching our parents struggle, save small, spend small, and somehow survive. That alone becomes the first lesson.
My parents used to tell me, “No matter how small the money is, learn how to share it wisely.” At that time, I didn’t understand. I thought money is only meant to be spent. But now, as an adult earning my own income, I see how fast money can finish if you don’t guide it. One minute you feel rich, next minute your account is looking dry and empty like harmattan land.
The way I manage my income is very simple and very real. Once money enters, I first think about the important things food, transport, bills, and small savings. I try not to wait till money finishes before planning. Sometimes I fail, yes, but at least I try. In Nigeria, prices change anyhow, and in India too, cost of living can surprise you. So planning ahead helps reduce shock.
One thing I learned from observing Indian families is discipline. Many of them plan household expenses tightly and stick to it. In Nigeria, we are more flexible, sometimes too flexible, and that can scatter plans. I try to balance both styles discipline and understanding that life happens.
I also learned not to compare income. Seeing people online living big life can make you feel behind. But comparison will just make you overspend trying to impress nobody. My parents always warned me, “Don’t spend money you don’t have to prove something you’re not.” That advice saves me from unnecessary pressure.
Saving is not easy, especially when income is small, but I try to save little by little. Even if it’s not much, it gives peace of mind. Some months I touch my savings because life happens. I forgive myself and continue again. Nobody is perfect.
At the end of the day, managing income is not about how much you earn, but how you control it. Money will always come and go, but wisdom in handling it is what keeps you standing. I’m still learning, still making mistakes, but I believe with patience and discipline, things will get better.
Image is mine
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