There has been at least one point in time where we have scoffed at certain ideas because we could not afford them. With typical statements like:
- Hoh! E no need sef, all be vanity
- E no dey bee me, like I get am already
- I no dey like show off, that be why
These statements have become even more popular because they are easy ways to hide from the realities of not being able to afford the ‘good things of life’.
I remember meeting up with a lady friend (whom I was trying to ‘move to’) at Osu for a night out with my fixed budget of GHS 150. Hopefully, we would spend GHS 100 on food and use the remaining GHS 50 for uber. As soon as we met, I quickly suggested a food place (of course I had done my research and knew all their food prices were within budget). Lo and behold! this lady had been there in the morning and wanted something else, so she suggested a different ‘bougie’ restaurant. My response: “hoh that place sef their chef just tested positive for coronavirus, so it’s not safe to go there”.
I got away with it, but the truth remains, I COULD NOT AFFORD IT.
Many young men have developed scripts to help deal with such embarrassing situations but that should not be the case. With the right financial advice, we can all enjoy the good things of life with no stress.
In the words of Idowu Koyenikan, “money is always eager and ready to work for anyone who is ready to employ it”. Simply put, make your money work for you”.