Being dope + young has pressures that only one could imagine. Not only do you deal with the expectations from every adult in your life but also social pressures from others around you and yes that includes keeping up with the latest of everything. From technology to fashion, it’s as if the walls are closing in second by second to ensure yourself you stay current! To top it off, it doesn’t even help when your closest friends seem to be “balling” out of control and gets to use her parents credit cards as if there are absolutely no limits in the world. Well, I’m here to tell you that it does not matter how much money you have that matters but how resourceful you are with your funds. So it’s definitely okay for you to still have a fly life without having the most money. Trust me on this one. So let’s dig into how you can make your part time check work for you…

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Company You Keep– Ok so you know how the say “watch the company you keep?” Well, you know it’s a true statement in regards to shopping buddies as well. If you know that it’s a difficult for you to say the word “no” when it comes to shopping, watch the shopping buddy who joins you. If your friend constantly is swiping left and right, she’s more than likely is going to want you do the same and this is where pressure comes into play when dealing with unnecessary spending. So the next time you going to shop for something specific bring a laid back friend or just hit the boutique by yourself. Sometimes shopping solo is the best way too! Less stress, less opinions and no pressures!

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No Impulse Buys– So every time you head out to the stores set a plan before you head out the door. If you just need to buy a pair of jeans or a cd, that is what you should come back with. Or even if you give yourself a total amount that you’re going to spend, stick to the amount. This way you can have the freedom to buy what you want to and even indulge in that sale but still stick to the amount you want to spend. Trust me, the best feeling is going out shopping and coming back knowing you stuck to your budget and bought something you wanted! Score!

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Refocus!! Ok, I know the fact that your parents wouldn’t give you money to but the $150.00 pair of shoes that everybody has makes you feel like the end of the world is here. But I’m going to let you end on a little a secret…life goes on. I know your day to day let downs seem never ending and although you should live for today you should still plan for tomorrow as well. So even though it may seem like everybody else is keeping up on the latest trends, saving and setting money to the side is more fulfilling. So even though you may not have every latest thing, once you head off to college you will have enough money aside to not only to easily pay for your books but have comfortable amount to live on and not scraping last minute. Just saying.

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From the parentals demanding 1,000 tasks from you to your friends wanting to be their counselor to your boyfriend missing you, it’s completely easy for you to get lost in everybody’s world! Relationships are apart of our daily routine. Yes, we all have those days where we want to crawl in bed to avoid everybody for weeks (private island, anyone?). But we have to face our lives making sure we’re managing healthy connections with people without being drained or lost in the mix of everybody’s lives! Ok, enough with the mini sermon + now to the quick tips that will change your life!

Space + Time for Yourself- I know your friends are like your sisters and your boyfriend is your future husband BUT sometimes you actually need a breather from everyone. A little space + quiet times allow you to unclutter others thoughts and really dig into how you feel and your outlook in life (without anybody’s opinions).

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Everybody Is Not For Everything- Ok, have you ever been frustrated telling a friend something that they simply didn’t understand or didn’t care about? Before you write them off completely just realize you have different friends for different spaces in your life. You may have a homegirl who’s lively + fun who’s great for parties and another friend is a great listener, you see where we’re going with this? Give your friends a little space to see what their strong points are!

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Pockets of Happiness- Pause! What makes you happy? No, like really happy when no one is watching or looking.  Knowing what makes you happy will allow you to not feel drained when you deal with everybody in your life. Remember you can’t fill others glasses of happiness if yours is always empty!

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Ask + You Shall Receive-  It’s true. It can be scary to say ‘No’ to the people who you care about  because it’s a fear they may get mad or leave your life. Ok, so quiet the drama queen in your mind for a sec. and just listen. People who really love you will understand and respect your options to have time for yourself or have some ‘me’ time when you ask for a little space.

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Group Budget – Ok, so it’s no secret that being a student doesn’t automatically make you rich. So instead of trying to impress your friends with what you can buy just be honest that you want to be mindful on your spending habits.  Creating a budget of what the group wants to spend takes the pressure off of everyone!

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 Free Finds- Umm summer is right around the corner and you know exactly what that means, right? Free everything! Ok,  maybe not everything but festivals, concerts, BBQ’s … you get our drift. So do your research and find fun places to that are kind to your pockets.

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Girls Night In- Sometimes it’s better to just stay in rather than being on the scene. Resetting , chatting + veggin’  out are all perfect ways to chill out and catch up with your besties. Who doesn’t love comfy girl talk?

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SWAP over SHOP!- Shopping! Yes, we all wish we had an unlimited amount to spend on new trends each season! Hmmm so instead of shopping you should have a swap out with your friends. You know  your friend’s cute necklace that you’re always gagging over  and your statement ring she raves about …just swap it out. Time to trade!

Happy savings, babes!

“What did she say??” “I heard that she didn’t like him.” “Oh she secretly gets on my LAST nerve.” Everybody has heard or even said these statements when it comes to their “friends.” Well, even though friendships goes through their ups and downs, it is still important that you understand what is needed in a healthy. Check out what’s important when it comes to a true friendship!