I watch a good amount of financial content. I enjoy it. I believe financial literacy is one of the most important forms of self-care we can practice. But if you’ve been on social media lately, you’ve probably noticed a pattern:
- “10 things I stopped buying to save money”
- “17 things you’re wasting money on”
- “20 things I’ll never buy again”
- “6 steps to get out of debt”
- “How I paid off everything”
And listen, some of it is helpful.But a lot of it starts to sound the same.
Cut subscriptions.
Stop eating out.
No shopping.
No extras.
And yes…
Stop buying coffee.
But just when you think you’ve figured it out or heard it all. Another video catches your attention and says:
“Buy the coffee.”
“That $8 latte isn’t what’s keeping you broke.”
“Enjoy your life.”
“You don’t even need to buy a house.”
And now you’re sitting there like…Wait, so what am I supposed to do?
Here’s what I’ve noticed:
Some of these creators contradict themselves, sometimes in the very next video.
One minute it’s: “Cut all subscriptions.” Next video: “Here’s what I’m watching on Netflix.”
I watched a woman share her budgeting journey. She was doing everything “right”:
- Cutting back
- Tracking every dollar
- Writing everything down
And yet, she still felt financially unstable. But it reminded me of something important: Money isn’t just math—it’s emotional. FINANCIAL MINDSET: WHICH ONE ARE YOU?
So… Buy the Coffee or Not?
Here’s the truth:
It depends. I know that’s not the dramatic answer the internet wants. But it’s the honest one. Because your life, your income, your responsibilities, your goals are not the same as someone else’s. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GXKRV7T6
For some people, cutting everything is necessary—for a season.
For others, small joys like a coffee, a dinner out, or a movie are part of a balanced life.
The coffee isn’t the problem. The question is:
- Are you spending with intention?
- Are you aware of where your money is going?
- Are you choosing your life—or copying someone else’s?
Because you can:
- Never buy coffee and still feel stressed
- Or buy coffee occasionally and still be financially responsible
How you think about money is often shaped by:
- How you grew up
- What you’ve experienced
- What you’ve been told
- What you’re currently consuming
And if you’re constantly consuming content that says:
“You’re doing it wrong…” You’ll always feel like you’re behind.
Instead of taking every piece of advice as fact. Use it as a mirror.
Maybe ask yourself questions like:
- What do I value?
- What actually matters in my life?
- Where can I be more disciplined?
- Where can I allow myself to enjoy what I’ve earned?
Take what aligns.
Leave what doesn’t.
I’m all for:
- Being financially responsible
- Reducing unnecessary spending
- Building stability
But I’m also for:
Because this is your life.
Not a checklist.
Not a trend.
Not a viral video.
You don’t need to follow every rule to be financially wise. You just need to be aware, intentional, and honest with yourself. Because at the end of the day, it’s not about the coffee. It’s about the life you’re creating.
So… Which One Are You?
The one who buys the coffee? Or the one who skips it? Maybe, you’re both. And maybe that’s the point.
RosalynLynn
Be you so you can be free.