“Two years ago, my mother passed away, which caused my childhood trauma. As a result, I increasingly quit working. In May, I ended up with PTSD, PTSD. Before that, I worked at a startup in the field of technology, sales and marketing.” .
“I have 75 euros a week for groceries, and I also have to pay for clothes and public transport from that. I know exactly how much everything in supermarkets costs and I look at brochures and offers online. I don’t do fun things outside the house anymore. I prefer to organize things in Home, like a movie night, or going to dinner with friends. And sometimes I choose to go to the movies and then have peanut butter toast for a few nights.”
Volg GeneratieNU
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There is no sports subscription, but exercise outside
“I canceled my sports subscription because I couldn’t afford it anymore. I exercise now outside. I buy used or on-sale clothes. I think it’s important to look good. I studied fashion and I’m good at finding fun. Things on Vinted. Style is in you, I’m not Having to buy that. I also amuse myself sometimes at the sewing machine. Creativity takes you so far when you’re poor.”
“At the moment, I am totally dependent on all the allowances. Fortunately, there are additional funds from the municipality, such as the energy allowance, which I will have soon. In general, I am just making ends meet, but nothing unexpected should happen. If the limit goes up minimum wage to €14 an hour, then all those tractors and bureaucracy would not be needed. Everyone would be able to make ends meet, saving a lot of administrative hassle.”
“I want to show that nobody wants this.”
“You hear sometimes you can’t complain if you get money from the government, but really you don’t quite get it. You have to meet very strict requirements and get scrutinized often. I want to show that no one wants that. With a job you have more.” of money and a better life. That’s why I always feel bad when I’m seen as some kind of freeloader.”
When you stop saying yes, your friends stop asking you and your life shrinks.
“Relationship with friends is also an issue. I live in an expensive city, and people like to do things outside the home. When you stop saying yes, they stop asking you and your life gets smaller. Also, people don’t always understand my situation. For example, they ask Mostly when will I go back to work, while they can also ask how I’m doing. I need to focus on getting better first.”
There is a taboo on poverty
“I notice that it’s a taboo to talk about poverty. People don’t ask about it often, whereas I want to be open about it. Sometimes people look down on me. When it falls on others, people lash out because they think: I’ll pay for it. Especially people who don’t know your story.” They can be very judgmental. That’s why I want to share this story, and also to others who are having a hard time.”
“Unable to type with boxing gloves on. Freelance organizer. Avid analyst. Friendly troublemaker. Bacon junkie.”