5 Ways To Balance Your Money and Happiness | Aja Dang

[@emmastillings9941]

I LOVE how open you are with money! Words can't describe how happy I am to watch a video about budgeting that's not "stop buying coffees" and "live with your parents and pay no rent." Thank you!

[@AjaDang]

not realistic and not something I do! would never tell people to do things that I don't do

[@emmastillings9941]

@@AjaDang That is why you're Number 1! All my friends (we all just graduated) watch you and constantly ask #WWADD (you're a staple in our groupchat). Thank you so much again for all that you do and all the content you create for us!

[@malysa_]

Thank you so much for making these videos! I just graduated from grad school and currently have $130k in student loans for my combined college education. I'm so glad I've found your videos and I'm so excited to begin my debt free journey!

[@mynamemeanshappiness9084]

Great tips! I have always disagreed with DR and his beans and rice approach. We can be gazelle intense but even the gazelles cannot maintain such intensity for long. You end up falling off the wagon and sometimes you cannot get back on because you are so fed up and tired. My hack is to save up for what makes me happy and then use my credit card to pay for it so I can build credit. When the bill comes, I simply pay it in full using the saved funds. No interest, credit built. Keep these great videos coming! I am looking forward to your Scream!!

[@maha1318]

I always find myself struggling to balance between saving, paying off my loans and enjoying my life. I always feel bad when I spend money and think it might be better to save that or pay my loans a little earlier because they're giving me anxiety

[@AjaDang]

I was like that and I almost had a mental breakdown. Best to find balance. Only way to be successful AND happy on your journey.

[@bubbles1978]

I think that if you budget for it, you won’t feel so guilty :)

[@SpeshialKae]

You’ve always been gorgeous but ohemgee you’ve been glowing like crazy lately. ❤️

[@heynikki3427]

Agreed!

[@AjaDang]

oh my god really? I'm trying look put together these days haha

[@TheBemused]

Such an important topic! You can’t throw every single cent toward your financial goals. You’ll go crazy! For example, my boyfriend and I have determined that no matter what, we will always budget for at least one trip a year, even if it’s more local.

[@ohShnapss]

My husband and I are doing this too!

[@raksimoniquepersonalfinanc9514]

I love how real you are about money. It’s not perfect and if you stress yourself you’ll break. But we still have to hold ourselves accountable. 👍🏾

[@aryannaramirez8150]

I’m amazed by how perfectly timed this video is with where I’m at in my debt free journey 😭 I was feeling like my life was revolving just around money, and that I was missing out on time for friendships (I’ve even lost a friend along the way), and even worse I’ve been feeling bitter of others who are not dealing with debt. I just keep wishing others could’ve guided me to prevent me from being in this position, but I know that’s not healthy and being salty doesn’t pay off my student loans. I’m realizing now I should spend a bit of the money I earn on other goals in order to make the journey feel more bearable and satisfying instead of feeling like I’ll spending another year chipping away at debt. Thank you Aja for everything and for being the financial guide I never really had 💕

[@PenniesNotPerfection]

I’ve loved watching your budgeting journey. You’ve found a good balance and a budget can definitely let you have happiness and splurges in the midst of meeting financial goals.

[@maeganvaz]

Your zonked out dogs in the background are the CUTEST!

[@adriannakimm]

Aja! You should do a collaboration with The Financial Diet!

[@AmyRylett]

I was thinking this too! But I know Chelsea is anti-Dave Ramsey partly because of his sexist/weird hiring policies so I don't know if they'd associate their brand with someone who follows his method? (And this is coming from someone who is now on baby step 3 but doesn't particularly like Dave's politics/beliefs)

[@shauntelcampos3212]

Amy R Sexist/weird hiring policies?? I’ve never heard about this. Can you elaborate?

[@AmyRylett]

@@shauntelcampos3212 There was an article published about a year ago (titled 'Ex-Employee Reveals Internal Misogyny at Christian Financial Guru’s Company') where a former employee was interviewed about her experience working there - women are not allowed to be alone with men in any car, or elevator, there are meetings (with new female employees) that discuss what women can't wear to work because apparently men are 'visual creatures' and are told to 'go up a size' if their clothes fit them, and apparently Dave won't meet with any woman who isn't his wife. I think there's also a 'spousal interview' section of the hiring process which is just weird to me.

[@sheriyap5093]

I don't think so. The Financial Diet has a lot of fluff and advertising. I like Aja as it's own. She's more real this way.

[@4janey4]

@@AmyRylett maybe they want to prevent #metoo issues ㅡ.ㅡ so silly to complain abt a company who is taking every precaution to keep both parties safe from even accusations... i guess the alternative is to hate men for molesting women, hate men for protecting women, believe all women! 🤦‍♀️

[@xivyyyyy]

Just found your channel and am binge watching all of your videos. I have NEVER come across anyone in the social media space providing this type of informative, realistic, yet also entertaining/enjoyable content. You are not only gorgeous but are so well spoken and I just hope you know how appreciated these videos are! I will be graduating college this upcoming May and will then have to start paying back loans and start my financial journey independent for the first time, so this last year while I am in school I am trying to really educate myself on everything financial and also start saving for my future. Thank you for these videos.

[@Arvabelle]

All of these are such real things that people go through on their financial journeys. Truly appreciate your perspective as always!!

[@pnoipr8]

Your voice is one of the most soothing voices to listen to. Glad you are doing podcasts now, too. And your content is helpful and top notch too.

[@AjaDang]

have you been listening to the podcast? It's live now!

[@pnoipr8]

@@AjaDang awesome, will listen to the next episode on my way from Riverside to LA. Thanks, Aja!

[@2brokenthumbs]

So many good points especially when you talk from recent experience. Even if they remember only a few points you made, it is worthwhile to listen to your vlog. I would refrain from characterizing your decisions as sacrifices.

[@purpleisamazing1]

celebrating your financial freedom by going back and watching all your videos about finance and budgeting, ur so inspiring aja -so much love

[@michelletruong9064]

I love your budgeting videos! You’ve definitely helped me become more comfortable talking about money with my friends, and it’s been so eye opening. Thanks for always being so real with us, Aja! 💕

[@JayPalfrey]

love this! glad no earthquakes interrupted this time haha

[@AjaDang]

haha, right?!

[@katrinal8844]

I need this so much right now. I've been budget and depriving myself for too long. I've started to loosen the purse strings, but I haven't come to terms with it as I've been frugal for so long.

[@AjaDang]

balance babe. balance.

[@deliadevin9550]

I'm really into personal finance now! Thanks for sharing these videos, they're really helpful!

[@volcompunk58]

I’ve been kicking butt on paying off my credit cards lately. Feels so good to pay them off. 💪🏽

[@AjaDang]

HELL YA!

[@kromatic3610]

Love these tips! Can't wait for your 30 fun free things to do list! Will certainly enter the sweepstakes. Grad school tuition is a seemingly endless struggle. Also, you're hair looks bomb and so healthy! 😍

[@AjaDang]

good luck!

[@Ashley_glvz]

absolutely love your channel! i'm an upcoming freshman in college for undergrad and i have to take out loans and i'm literally freaking out because i feel like it's going to take years and so much of my life trying to pay it back. but you and your videos really do help calm me down and assure it that everything is going to be okay and i'll be 110% happy bc i'll be educated and able to pay back loans!

[@brittneyparks6756]

Great topic!! I love intentionality with money! You are right on!! Thanks for sharing.❤️ I can’t wait to see your debt free scream!!!

[@lilylovedaquila]

These are great, and achievable, tips. Balance is definitely key. While working towards, or maintaining, financial stability, life still needs to be enjoyed. Your journey is so open and consistent, it makes it easy to relate, and follow. "Little wins..."

[@AjaDang]

exactly.

[@SignesTwin4ever]

I am beyond happy that I found your channel! Your videos are so inspiring😁 keep up the good work

[@arra584]

Thanks girl! This is a topic I've personally struggled with. It's hard to prescribe to Dave Ramsey's philosophy that you have to live an almost completely austere life until you get out of debt. It makes it so much harder to stay motivated. I like your ideas much better!

[@AjaDang]

I take his teachings but mold it to fit my lifestyle. You can't go all in or else you'll end up falling off the wagon. Balance is key.

[@arthrodea]

I am super excited to hear the "things to do for fun" on a budget video!! I am also really struggling with finding some balance. I feel extremely guilty to spend any money and it makes me so angry to be forking over thousands of dollars to pay off student loans.

[@AjaDang]

I was the same way and it started giving me anxiety. Find Balance.

[@heynikki3427]

As a college student, your videos most definitely help me with saving money. It inspires me to be more financially aware and responsible. Thank you! ❤

[@AjaDang]

I wish I was more financially aware in college so I'm so happy I can help!

[@MissArBell]

Your hair is looking amazing!!

[@AjaDang]

thank you!

[@ladylivinglife]

you're able to be so engaging on such a boring topic... I love it and thank you for your information!

[@AjaDang]

easy to make money interesting when you're honest and speaking from the heart!

[@Pearlygirl0]

Debt free scream! I’m so excited for when you get to do it!

[@terryphan891]

love these financial videos, very useful. Thanks Aja!

[@BlackBlood74]

Love these tips, except for the credit card one. I'm only 23 and so far have used my credit card for everything. I never get a credit card that I have to pay for, in fact, I always get one that will offer me rewards for purchases on everyday items like food at the grocery store. I understand where it can be tricky for those who are not great with money, but I always make sure to only spend what I have even if my credit card limit is $6000. They can be super useful especially if you get a bonus of $150 for spending $3000 in 3 months or something like that. I would have spent that money anyway, so i jus get that nice little bonus.

[@jonina92]

This is so relatable and useful for the average guy (like all of us)! Thank you Aja

[@chelseamccarthy9467]

Thank you so much for talking about this topic and the helpful tips! Love your channel ☺️

[@dianelolin7247]

Your makeup looks amazing!!

[@bernadettesalom1708]

Your dogs are funny!

[@Breana4889]

I cannot wait to hear you do your Debt Free Scream!! :)

[@stephanienwa8]

Breana Schadt oh that's what she said? I thought she said screen. I was like what is that.

[@Breana4889]

Yep! She follows Dave Ramsey and he has people come on his radio show to talk about how much debt they paid off and then scream "I'm debt free!" It's super motivational to listen to/watch if you want to KZbin it!

[@blqkrainbow]

Its hard when my partner isn’t on board , his. Mentality is spend it all. Any tips in order to get on the same page?

[@AjaDang]

are you married?

[@blqkrainbow]

Aja Dang no we are not , we live together and have two kids

[@Porcelynnn]

Mrsdarkness give him a wake up call, show him the numbers of how much debt & bills you have and let him know he has to think about your 2 kids. Kids are expensive and in order for them to prosper, you have to prepare for their future and your future too. Time flies and you want to have money when you retire!!!

[@auroranightz]

i have a destination wedding in cancun as well! have def been saving up for it!

[@AjaDang]

omg. why are destination weddings so expensive?!

[@catinhat95]

Hi Aja, I noticed you don't have a clothing category on your budget. Does that come out of personal items?

[@AjaDang]

it does but I HATE shopping and HATE spending money on clothes. So I'm either gifted clothes from companies or I just borrow Brian's clothes. Or he will buy them for me bc that's shit is important to him.

[@NinaThomas]

Aja, I loved this video! I too didn’t realize how much interest can go up. This video was so great because so many times we can have such a fun time without spending a ton of money, so why overspend?

[@AjaDang]

interest is the fucking devil. .

[@beomikehinde]

Love watching your videos girl 💛 One of my fav youtubers. Btw where’d you get your top??

[@catherinetan3145]

This is really helpful!

[@Glitteryspirit]

So valuable- thank you!! What degree did u get btw- and do u think a degree is worth the money?

[@AjaDang]

MA in broadcast journalism and BA in marketing. I would never say getting a degree is a dumb idea. Just do it in a smart way.

[@kathleen_fung_]

This is speaking to me so much 🙏🏻

[@ChanChan770ZZ]

SO HELPFUL

[@vanimaduray5473]

Excellent and practical video 💜

[@tostos20]

Does it matter if you don’t live in the UK to enter?

[@jcv_25]

Is the prize tax free??

[@AjaDang]

of course. I believe the law is, any "gifts" under $10,000 is tax free.

[@mette1983]

You’re the best Aja❤️

[@alessiagandolfo9305]

Really great tips !

[@maurathislessofthat4964]

Another great video! I love mint and it really does help us keep things in order financially. I'm headed out kayaking tomorrow and will be sure to post a pic on instagram. We got our mortgage under 100k and celebrated by buying a budgeted family season pass to kayak at our local state park and an annual state park parking pass. Now we get to go kayaking every week and no guilt involved as it was budgeted and is paid for already.

[@NoraTKD]

Thank you for the tips Aja. I think we all have to figure out what is important to us and balance as much as possible.

[@sweetiepie9411]

Lol yes I was young but I remember the YTK hysteria. Great video as well.

[@laurene382]

Thank you Aja, I love your videos!

[@Kevin-bj5gv]

I Love your channel

[@gretab6883]

Wow you look radiant!

[@Chosenlaur]

Great video Aja.

[@AjaDang]

thank you!

[@BT-xj4wx]

£5000 would change my life right now but it’s only open to people in the US. 😞 Do you think you’re next give away could be open to others?

[@AjaDang]

Once I'm done paying with all my loans, I plan to do a givewaway, out of my own pocket for my followers. It probably won't be as much as $5,000 but it will be open internationally.

[@katiefrolichman]

God dammit Aja, I fucking love you!!! You're my age and you are one of my mentors. I can't wait for your next video. Love and light ladybug!

[@AjaDang]

xoxoxoxo

[@ErinPurcell.design]

Student Loans... ugh. literally picking my interest rate for fall's loan as this video played. lol

[@AjaDang]

eek!

[@drvulpes6802]

I need a car however, I want to pay off my debt first before I decide to put myself in $10k+ in debt Id rather have one account that multiple accounts to pay

[@elliecbron]

Can’t wait for your debt free scream!

[@MohanadKhuraishi]

“Like” before the video even starts 😄

[@thesimplelifeofjenn5349]

I love you.

[@AjaDang]

xoxo

[@monique10j]

A fancy coffee is a want, not a need.

[@tonyj9091]

she forgets she aja beautiful dang

[@SunshineSM877]

And now i am wondering how old you actually must be??🤔😁😁