Ayanyemi Benjamin
In a funny turn of events, Nigeria has a French-speaking economy. When you say comment ca va, it answers sapa bien merci, meaning sapa dey for you. Nigeria’s economy is deteriorating slowly, but steadily, every day. And the ripple effect of this economic retrogression does not spare students in any way. Especially for people who solely depend on allowances from parents, the math is simple.
When little comes in at home, little comes into your pocket. Discussions of financial prudence have become immeasurably central to student life, especially at this time. This article will provide you with five tips for managing your resources wisely. Let’s get started!
Have a Budget
Budgeting is telling your money where to go instead of wondering where it went. Most students spend money impulsively and go broke in no time. Put pen on paper. Know how much is going to be spent on feeding, transport, etc This will help you overcome impulsive spending. And you could at least keep up with the little you have.
Set Priorities in Your Expenditure
You can avoid unnecessary lack of essentials by simply using a scale of preference. The scale is an order of expenses in which the most important things come first and the least essential things come last. A good scale of preference takes care of needs before satisfying wants. Adopt this intent-driven eco-prudence strategy, otherwise, you’ll take groceries after satisfying your never-ending cravings.
Avoid Ostentations
You want to bambam, you want to chill with the big boys. If you don’t want to run kitkkiti, you had better avoid unnecessary flamboyance and bogus show-offs. Come to terms with the reality that the university is a confluence of diversities. In simple terms, we are from different backgrounds. Don’t swank with the rich kids if you’re not one. In the same vein, avoid needless competition. You’re getting just enough to go buy from your parents or guardian and you want to compete with more financially buoyant people. That’s not a very wise decision to make.
Save Up
It goes without saying that the money you save today will save you some other day. So, it is wise to save, out of the little, for rainy days. Occasionally, you may hit jackpots but don’t spend it all to get a thank-you from Heyfood or the more recent Chowdeck Food Delivery Service. Save. You can put the accruement to good use during emergencies.
Have a “Bye-to-Sapa” Plan
Up to this point, we have discussed strategies to manage your limited resources as a student, especially in times like this. But beyond frugality, you need a more sustainable way to live out of this paucity. You deserve better than hand-to-mouth. Yes, you do. But do you have a strategy?
Here are two things you can do to liberate yourself financially
You can learn a skill: There are loads of digital and non-digital skills you can learn and earn a living from. From graphic designing, programming, and digital marketing to baking, fashion designing, and hairstyling, you’ll certainly find one that suits you. On the other hand, you can start a business, if you have the capital. Either way, make money.
Aside from these factors, if possible, take time to enjoy yourself. Life can be challenging, but it’s important to find moments of joy and happiness. Maybe that means taking a relaxing walk in nature, spending time with loved ones, or pursuing a hobby that brings you joy. Whatever it is, make sure you prioritize your own well-being and find time to do the things you love. You no come this life to suffer. Au revoir!
