As I write this, I’m sipping on a glass of Zobo that costs ₦1,000 more than it did just last month, at a café that now charges double its initial price. For some people, it’s an insignificant price increase, but to me, it’s a constant reminder of the insidious creep of inflation into my daily life. As a woman who has always been mindful of her budget, I’ve realised that the current inflation crisis in Nigeria is changing my lifestyle in subtle but significant ways, and I am anxious about the future.
The little things add up
At first, just a few hundred naira were added here and there. A slightly more expensive carton of my favourite Chi-Active juice, a pricier Ibuprofen prescription, and a higher Netflix bill. But as months went by, these small increases started to add up, resulting in significant changes. The most significant for me has been the switch from tampons to sanitary pads, and it didn’t end there. I had to search through brands before finally settling on one that’s both cost-effective and efficient. While I’m able to afford them every month, I’m curious about women who can’t.
Cutting back on luxuries
Although the term “luxury” remains relative, I;ve had to redefine what it means to me repeatedly in the past year. First, my “luxurious” monthly spa session was ditched for a monthly self-care day at home after the cost became unaffordable. I’ve drastically reduced dining out since I spent about ₦10,000 on a portion of noodles at a café. I vividly remember when noodles were a “broke meal” anyone could afford, but it isn’t any more— or maybe I’m beyond broke now.
I have found myself making tougher choices about how to allocate my budget, prioritising necessities over niceties. It’s not just about saving money, it’s also about being more mindful of the same spending habits I once considered wise.
The emotional toll of inflation
But inflation isn’t just about numbers and budgets – it’s also about the emotional toll it takes. I feel anxious and stressed about money, worried that I won’t be able to afford the things I need by the end of the month, let alone the things I want.
A mantra I hold dear is to “Live your best life” and for me, a single woman, part of that entails travelling, exploring food, activities and letting my hair down whenever I want. However, without assurance of what future inflation holds for me and other Nigerians, I have no choice but to find other ways to thrive.
Although I have started exploring free or low-cost hobbies like colouring on apps and enjoying YouTube movies, it is only a matter of time before these become luxuries, and I am left to redefine what “luxury” means again.
