Why Am I Broke If I Make God Money? 3 Hidden Habits That Drain Your Bank Account

October 21, 2025

As I financial educator, I help organizations deliver workshops, webinars, and coaching programs that empower individuals to rewrite their financial story and take control of their money.

But even as someone who teaches financial wellness, I recently had to check myself.

Between leading sessions, attending community events, and supporting other entrepreneurs, I started noticing a pattern creeping in – lifestyle creep.

Because I’m constantly in front of people, I felt pressure to refresh my wardrobe. Years ago, I sold many of my clothes and shoes to pay off debt, and once I reached that goal, I never replaced much of it. So, when the events started piling up, my mind instantly went to, “I have an event coming up, I need something new to wear.”

At first, it felt innocent. But soon, those small purchases began adding up. That’s when I took a pause and reminded myself:

I refuse to look successful on the outside while feeling financially stretched on the inside.

I know how easy it is to start slipping into these patterns, especially when you’re doing everything right and still feel like your money won’t stretch. You’re not careless; you’re human. But awareness is the first step toward change.

If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Why am I broke if I make good money?”, here are three hidden habits that might be quietly draining your wallet.

1️⃣ Lifestyle Inflation

This one can sneak up easily. You get a raise or work overtime, and suddenly, there’s a new car, nicer clothes, or fancier vacations. It feels good, until the paycheck disappears just as fast as before.

Instead of planning how to spend your increase, practice delayed upgrades:

• Bank the difference for three months before you touch it.

• Use extra income to pay down debt or boost your retirement contributions.

• Open a high-yield savings account to let your money grow.

  
  

Remember, every dollar you delay spending is a dollar working for your future.

2️⃣ Emotional Spending

We’ve all been there, Target runs, late-night Amazon orders, or “I deserve this” moments after a long day. Emotional spending often feels harmless, but it quietly chips away at your goals.

Before buying, pause and ask yourself:

🧠Do I really need this, or am I soothing myself?

☕Can I wait 24 hours before deciding?

That small pause can save hundreds overtime and give you back control.

3️⃣ The Small Leaks

Subscriptions, bank fees, duplicate purchases, these tiny expenses drain your account slowly but steadily. Review your statements monthly and plug those leaks:

• Cancel unused subscriptions.

• Switch to no-fee banking or credit cards.

• Take inventory before shopping, how many times have you bought something you already had at home?

Final Thoughts

Financial success isn’t about perfection, it’s about awareness.

Making good money doesn’t guarantee financial peace, managing it intentionally does. Whether it’s saying no to lifestyle inflation, pausing emotional spending, or tightening small leaks, every conscious choice moves you closer to financial freedom.  

✨ Be intentional. Be consistent. And keep your money Irie 💚

About Petra-Ann Brown

Petra-Ann Brown is the founder of Brown Financial Solutions, LLC, a financial coaching practice that empowers individuals to take control of their financial lives. She is also the host of Island Money 365 podcast, where she shares inspiring immigrant stories and provides invaluable financial resources to the community.