Most of us weren’t born with silver spoons in our mouths.
However, there are some incredibly privileged people who’ve never wanted for anything and wouldn’t know what a budget was if it smacked them in the face. As a result, they can be blind to the experiences the rest of us have, like trying to decide which bills are getting paid this month and scrimping together money to give the kids for lunch. While not all financially well-off people are ignorant in this way, plenty of them are guilty of saying things like this.
1. “Why don’t you just get a better job?”
It sounds simple enough, right? But the reality is that “better jobs” aren’t always readily available. Things like education, experience, location, and even discrimination can limit options. Suggesting a career change as a quick fix oversimplifies a complex issue and ignores the systemic barriers many people face.
2. “Just budget better, and you’ll be fine.”
Budgeting is important, no doubt. However, when every pound is already accounted for, there’s little wiggle room for unexpected expenses or emergencies. Telling someone to “budget better” implies they lack financial responsibility, which can be hurtful and untrue. A tight budget is often a reality, not a choice.
3. “I don’t understand why you’re stressed about money.”
Financial stress is real and can be all-consuming. It affects mental and physical health, relationships, and overall well-being. Dismissing someone’s worries as trivial totally overlooks their experiences and shows a lack of empathy. Remember, everyone’s financial situation is unique, and even small amounts of debt can feel overwhelming.
4. “Stop buying coffee and avocado toast.”
Source: Unsplash The “latte factor” myth has been debunked numerous times, yet it persists. Blaming small indulgences like coffee or avocado toast for financial struggles ignores the bigger picture. Often, the real culprits are housing costs, healthcare expenses, and other necessities that have skyrocketed in recent years.
5. “You should invest your money.”
Investing is a great way to build wealth, but it requires capital that many people simply don’t have. When you’re struggling to make ends meet, investing seems like a distant dream. Additionally, not everyone has the knowledge or resources to make informed investment decisions. Suggesting it without considering individual circumstances can feel condescending.
6. “Why don’t you just ask your parents for help?”
Not everyone has a safety net in the form of financially supportive parents. Some families may be struggling themselves, or cultural norms may discourage reliance on parental assistance. Assuming everyone has access to financial help from family members is a privilege not everyone shares.
7. “Money isn’t everything.”
While this statement holds some truth, it’s tone-deaf when directed at someone facing financial hardship. Money may not buy happiness, but it does provide security, stability, and access to basic necessities. Dismissing its importance invalidates the very real challenges people face when they lack it.
8. “You’ll be fine; it’s just a phase.”
Financial struggles can be long-lasting and have a ripple effect on various aspects of life. Saying “it’s just a phase” downplays the severity of the situation and offers false hope. Acknowledging the difficulties someone is facing and offering support, even if it’s just a listening ear, is far more helpful.
9. “You should just go on holiday; it’ll help you relax.”
Vacations are lovely, but they’re also a luxury. When money is tight, a holiday is often the last thing on someone’s mind. Suggesting a getaway as a solution to financial stress ignores the fact that it might be an added expense they can’t afford. It can also come across as out of touch with their reality.
10. “I never have money problems.”
Source: Unsplash While this might be true for you, it’s not helpful to say it to someone who’s struggling. It can sound like bragging and make them feel even worse about their situation. Instead, offer a listening ear, a helping hand if you can, or simply acknowledge the challenges they’re facing.
11. “Have you tried selling some of your stuff?”
Suggesting that someone sell their belongings to make ends meet can feel like an invasion of privacy and a disregard for sentimental value. It also assumes that they have valuable items to sell, which might not be the case. Focus on offering practical solutions or emotional support rather than suggesting they part with their possessions.
12. “Why don’t you just move to a cheaper place?”
Source: Unsplash Relocation isn’t always a feasible option. It involves costs like moving expenses, deposits, and potentially higher transportation costs. Moreover, people may be tied to their current location due to work, family, or other commitments. Suggesting they uproot their lives oversimplifies the complexity of housing affordability.
13. “You just need to think positive.”
Source: Unsplash While a positive attitude is helpful, it’s not a magical cure for financial woes. Telling someone to “think positive” dismisses the very real obstacles they’re facing. It can also make them feel guilty for experiencing negative emotions, which are natural reactions to stressful situations.
14. “At least you have your health.”
While health is indeed important, financial stress can take a significant toll on both physical and mental well-being. Saying “at least you have your health” minimises the impact of financial stress (which is MAJOR) and invalidates the struggles someone is going through. Acknowledge their concerns and offer support instead of downplaying their difficulties.
15. “Just be grateful for what you have.”
Source: Unsplash Gratitude is a valuable practice, but it shouldn’t be used to silence someone’s concerns about their financial situation. While it’s important to appreciate what you have, it’s also valid to strive for a better life. Telling someone to “just be grateful” can feel dismissive and insensitive to their aspirations.
16. “Everyone struggles sometimes.”
While it’s true that everyone faces challenges, financial struggles can be particularly isolating and demoralising. Saying “everyone struggles sometimes” generalises the experience and fails to acknowledge the unique hardships associated with financial instability. Offer empathy and understanding instead of trivialising their experiences.
17. “You should just declare bankruptcy.”
Bankruptcy is a serious legal step with long-term consequences. Suggesting it as a quick fix shows a lack of understanding about the complexities of debt and financial management. It can also feel like a judgment on someone’s ability to handle their finances. Instead, encourage them to get professional advice and support them in exploring all their options.
