Dollars & Distractions - Episode 27 I Earn Good Money… So Why Do I Still Feel Broke?

Ever looked at your income and thought, “I earn good money… so where the hell does it all go?”You're definitely not the only one.In this episode of Dollars & Distractions, Maryanne and Bec unpack why earning a good income doesn't necessarily mean feeling financially comfortable, especially when the cost of living, lifestyle creep, kids, mortgages, holidays, cars and all those sneaky little expenses start piling up.We talk about how earning more can sometimes lead to spending more, why the definition of a "good income" has changed dramatically, and how a lifestyle that looks comfortable from the outside can actually require a pretty serious income just to maintain.We also get into:Why lifestyle creep can happen without you even noticingHow the rising cost of living is eating into Australian household incomesWhy a bigger salary doesn't automatically mean you're better with moneyThe difference between being able to buy something and being able to comfortably afford the lifestyle that comes with itWhy self-employed people need to think differently about the money sitting in their business accountHow subscriptions, insurance and everyday expenses quietly drain your cashWhy reviewing a month of actual spending can be a massive eye-openerWhat to do with the money you free up after plugging your spending "leaks"Why comparing your financial position to someone else's can be completely misleadingAnd why having only $400 in savings at 37 doesn't mean you're screwedPlus, we introduce a new segment:Dollars & Distractions Confessions 👀Our first question:“I'm 37, earn $120,000 a year and have $400 in savings. Am I screwed?”Spoiler: No.Your age isn't your financial deadline, and someone else's financial position isn't your measuring stick.The better question is: What do YOU actually want your money to help you achieve?Once you know that, you can start working backwards and build a plan.🎧 Listen now for money conversations without the judgement, plenty of distractions, and a reminder that earning more isn't always the answer, sometimes you just need to know where it's going.Need to talk to somone - book a free call with us here - https://link.teamos.ai/preview/VnIGaMOE64W6aAlEHG9oDollars & Distractions - making money conversations a little less serious and a lot more relatable.General information only. This podcast does not constitute personal financial advice.Topics Cost of living Australia | Budgeting | Lifestyle creep | Money management | Personal finance Australia | Saving money | Home buying | Mortgage broker | Financial goals | High income but no savings