My Single Mom Journey: How I Became A Single Mom And Financially Stable | Tips For Money Management

My Single Mom Journey: How I Became A Single Mom And Financially Stable | Tips For Money Management
#singlemom #budgeting #moneytips
Insert your best Law and Order voice " These are the facts, and this is my story". I hope you guys enjoy this storytime. I tried to be as raw as possible. I'm human. I still make mistakes. But I am grateful for all the struggles that have led me to where I am today.
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Disclaimer: I am a certified Personal Finance Coach. Although I am certified, all opinions are based on my personal experience and knowledge. My videos should be used as a tool to help you on your journey. This is not specific advice for your financial situation and should be used accordingly.

[@MichelleElaineOfficial]

Whewww sorry about all the umm's lol. I hope that this video helps just one person know they are not their situation. You can reset bad habits, it just takes getting started.

[@tamara88557]

This was way to relatable! Ty for sharing your story, I've learned so much from this channel because of your transparency😊

[@TheMarvelousBeautyChannel1]

*Wowww! Girl you told my whole story! The only difference is you woke up a lot sooner than I did. Oh the part about relying on a spouse/partner...yeah that part didn't work out either. I was 41 when I finally woke up and started budgeting and that changed my life. In a year I was able to pay off almost 20K in debt, take 3 vacations 1 being an international trip, build a savings and in 2 weeks I am closing on a new house on the exact same salary. The biggest tip I try to give people is WRITE IT DOWN and KNOW WHERE YOUR MONEY IS GOING! After that, everything falls into place*

[@cbossy211]

My mom called it “mad money “ in case you get mad and got to go. I’m a single mom and raised 2 daughters. You are doing a great job sweetheart ❤️

[@Princess_with_an_opinion]

I’m so proud of you . I got pregnant right after high school . I felt so much shame , because my family had high hopes for me . My son’s dad and I got married and it did not workout we were too young . I became a single mom. I struggled then my mom who was my biggest support system died. I wish I had figured out how to manage my money . I was the same way . I never asked for help . I never got public assistance. I finished college and only in the last 5 years got my crap together and my son is 20. I try to encourage all the young people that I know to make better decisions .

[@ashleypoole1399]

Single mom of 5 here. We are some strong women!!Budgeting is KEY! You can absolutely make it work. 💗

[@MT-si3bu]

are you divorced?

[@ashleypoole1399]

@@MT-si3bu yes

[@ShadaeMastersAstrology]

@@ashleypoole1399 I’m also a mom of 5 and a homemaker. I’m married but things are really rocky and I’m realizing that I have to begin moving in a direction of self reliance. I didn’t plan for this and I feel so vulnerable and naive for not understanding that people change. Can you if you don’t mind share the steps you took to liberate yourself?

[@justshady]

@@ShadaeMastersAstrology learn to love your husband more. Ain’t nothing good out here for a single mom of 5

[@ShadaeMastersAstrology]

@@justshady Nothing good out in the streets. Omg you’re in my prayers be safe out there🥺🙏🏾

[@michellejones1226]

I felt this. In my younger 20s I could have set myself up for success but my emotional spending has led me down a dark path. Because I was facing relationship problems and I wasn’t close to friends and a family I would constantly shop and buy food. Smh. Now that I’ll be 30 this year and I have my son, I know that I want to get my finances together so that he can grow up seeing healthy money habits. I have been grinding for the last few months and I really believe I can have everything but my student loans paid in two years or less. God is good!

[@Kaylatrausch]

What hit me hard about this was when you said “I provided materialistic things to compensate for what was missing.” I was a single mom and that was me too! I feel for you! 💛

[@BudgetingDee]

Ain’t it a trip how we allow ourselves to assume the response from others and it keeps up harboring things out of fear? Then we get all worked up, let it out and the response is like, “uh huh, continue...” and you’re just like, “???” Lol. You better tell your story and help the sister or brother who needs it and don’t even know yet! 🥰🥰🥰 Happy belated Mother’s Day, Bae!!!

[@DominiqueJonae]

This sounds so similar to my mom’s story. Love listening to strong black women who persevere. Clearly you are a hustler and it’s so inspiring to watch you! Austin is lucky to have a strong mother to look up to. Much love to you :)

[@fitzgeraldsemelfort3938]

Boys need to look up to men if not they turn out to the very men ya despise

[@denisewilson-adams6341]

One thing you ARE NOT is boring. Thank you for sharing your story. Thank you for being vulnerable and transparent. Thank you for being authentic.

[@moneytalkswithjonathanthom4150]

As a child raised by a single widowed parent of 3... I respect and appreciate your journey! Great video!

[@NdiNaija]

Girl, you brought me to tears! I'm so sorry you went through all that. I hear you on the embarrassment. My mom is still embarrassed to say that I'm divorced and now a single mom because Nigerians are all about presentation. Women and finances is a topic that's often brushed under the rug because "the man" should take care of the household. We all know it doesn't happen that way, and budgeting really made my transition reasonable. I thank God that you are standing on your feet and thriving, and that Bubba is OK. He is learning a lot from watching you. Thank you for sharing. Loads of people will be helped by this.

[@fitzgeraldsemelfort3938]

Boys need to look up to masculinity

[@ceciliajohnson8812]

My grandmother had a Secret Squirrel Fund that nobody knew about also!😉 Sending you love💐

[@eboniestevenson231]

Girl you are speaking facts! I'm a single mother of TWO kids and I had my first at 19. So I know how it is. The struggle is hard and real. And I have been budgeting since I can remember. I hate to ask anybody to do anything for me and my kids cause I take my independence seriously and I'm trying to be a good example for my kids cause I have two girls. But now since they are 17 and 14 I can breathe a little easier and I have taught them how to budget and how to only purchase when absolutely necessary but to always pay your bills first!

[@denisesimms8729]

I grew up in the Baptist church too. I would not change that even if I could. Not only did I have my first child out of wedlock, she was a one night stand. If I could turn back the hands of time, I’d surely do that part different. The father wanted me to have an abortion, but I didn’t want too. She’s 27 now and I’m so proud of her. You have such a bubbly spirit and you’re a fun to watch and learn from. Your story like mine gives God all the glory. Keep shining💜

[@JackieBudgets]

I got those standards! Lol from a Holiness Church.

[@EvelynAmbrose]

Single mom of 2 here and I enjoyed this video. Very very encouraging

[@thedupemisses5901]

I am only halfway through this video and I could swear you are telling me my story. The pregnancy at the end of the relationship (with my son), being the kid of religious parents (Pastor & 1st lady), the spending of money when in my feelings, the financial issues etc...

[@domoniquesolomon3435]

This was soooo good!!! I learned how to budget from you! I am a single mother of 3 and I was always the broke friend. I stumble across one of your videos in 2018 and it was the day that changed my life. Thank you so much

[@scheeraem346]

"to rob Peter to go pay Paul" wow that's a word *finger snaps*

[@ThomasandNia]

I just started on my budgeting journey. I am def an emotional buyer.

[@MichelleTurnz]

I am glad you told your story because a lot of young women goes through the same thing. I am glad you didn't marry him and you chose what was best for you and Bubba. Happy mothers day sis. You are an amazing woman and mom.

[@amyc.6115]

Thank you for sharing! I became a mother a year ago & now I have soooo much respect for single parents. Parenting is hard physically, emotionally and financially. I also appreciate your openness and including your abortion story. I think it’s important for women to be able to speak openly about all their choices and experiences in life. I love your channel and how you speak about being empowered.

[@JusQueenie]

Your story is so much like yours cause girl I was planning to be a auntie and that’s all. My son 7 month but I been watching your videos before he was born. Budgeting has help me so much when it come to being a single mom. I have the same mindset when it come to my money and taking care of myself. I feel you alway gotta make sure you back is covered. You doing great girl.

[@JLisaDMiles]

I’ve been getting my finances in order for about a year now. It’s means so much to watch videos where someone just keeps it real! I don’t have any children but I still believe in God for a family one day. You’re such a unique person with a wonderful story. Thank you for this video! Happy belated Mother’s Day!

[@rdking0889]

Why am I in tears? I feel like you are a fly on the wall in my house. I wish we could have a conversation, because I feel like you get me.

[@MichelleElaineOfficial]

Girl just go to my calendly and book some time with me 😘

[@lifeasqueline]

Thank you for sharing your story! Testimonials are so powerful! I understand the single mom struggles of making those hard decisions. The women in my family always had a motto of "feed the baby" I would hear it when I was younger and I never understood it until I was a mother. It's a phrase we use to keep focused and pushing when you feel like you can't even keep going. I'm so happy I discovered the financial freedom journey. Learning how to really manage and build my finances has been life changing.

[@allieg4022]

i am not a single parent, but i am in a very similar situation as you when it comes to money. i pay my bills on time, make sure i'm responsible for the "fixed expenses", but i have no savings and i can't afford to take a trip with friends and i should! thank u for sharing ur story, and being so honest with us. gives me hope for myself and, i'm watching this late but, congrats on where u r now!!

[@mya69879]

“You got them standards when you’re in a Baptist church” never related so much in my life😂

[@MichelleElaineOfficial]

Whewwww chillleeeeee you understand! “Wedlock” let you know it was deeeeepp

[@janellaalarid1848]

I don't know how any body could hit thumbs down. Takes a lot of courage to share your story. Thanks for doing this.

[@solaprose5042]

I honestly DON'T do relationships because of the unknown and the drama that can come with it. I've been happier that way with just me, myself and I, but can tell you're a survivor because of the heartache! And you've succeeded no matter the bitter hand dealt, and that's encouraging.

[@KorettaJane]

That was such a beautiful, powerful reminder that we have to change the trajectory of the bad cycles in our life. Thank you for being transparent and open to us. Blessings on you and your family.

[@DreadDoll]

Why would anyone thumbs down this video? I love this, especially being a single mom myself I can really relate you. Thanks for making this video 💕

[@risad.5291]

Thank you for being real and honest (and a little silly). My mom was a HOT MESS and leaned on me a lot when I was a teenager so I spent most of my 20's rebelling against her legacy (She passed in 2007.) and it ultimately hurt me, my daughters, and put a strain on my marriage. My husband and I have been taking advantage of these unique (unfortunate) circumstances to make some serious changes and to really focus on how we can be better and for the first time since we got married (almost 15 years ago), it finally feels like we're not about to lose everything.

[@sbridges93]

I’m not a mom well I’m a fur mommy but I love seeing videos like this it makes it more personal and makes your page more relatable and homely 💛💛💛💛 we love it boo continue being a great mommy

[@studiogreen_]

Your story is so inspiring!! This makes me want to get my shit together for real! I’m just like you when it comes to being completely independent and financially self sufficient! I LOVE to spend money as well and I’ve been wanting to do better with money! This was so great! This message was so needed! Thank you!!

[@riethomas7791]

Lawdy Sis, this sounds like my story!!!!! 😭😭 You are blessed and highly favored Sis!’ Keep pushing u are never alone or by yourself!! 🥰🥰🥰💯 you keep it real 💯 u know the struggle 4real!!

[@courtneywitherspoon8584]

Yes honey...im Baptist and a Preacher's kid--i felt you on that one. And yes to grandma's bosom money! Lol bless you sis for your story!

[@ecofriendlyhippie]

You are awesome and truly inspiring. I definitely have an emotional spending problem like you did. I make more than $50k a year on my own and live paycheck to paycheck with no savings, yet I continue to blame it on my student loan payments instead of my bad spending habits.

[@Chaos_and_Creativity]

Being aware of this is the first step! Now that you are aware, you can put steps in place to make better choices. I understand because I'm the same way but now I'm trying to leave an abusive situation and realize my peace of mind is more important than anything I could buy.

[@angelisahardy2799]

You are a true blessing. I had been searching youtube for about a week looking for budgeting videos that were relatable. And I ran across yours. I bought the inserts and started to use them but then life happened. Now I'm trying to get back on track. I purchased your budget bundle. I plan on getting me some wine. Getting all my bills and my bank transaction list. And doing starting on my first month in my budget planner

[@Caiden_phx164]

Thank you for sharing your story, I am a single mother with a 4 year old and I was 29 when I became a mother. I am not starting on this budgeting journey. Thanks for the tips

[@fatimamills2249]

I'm not single mom Michelle, but as mother of three i feel you some days as mom you need some body to give you a little break. That's was a great video and you bring me little tear in to my eyes. 💓

[@mldshelly12]

Thanks for being transparent. I can relate to the majority of this. Now my daughter is a young adult and wish I would have done this sooner.

[@jayshavawn9399]

God’s timing is everything. I was suppose to hear this message right now. Thank you for sharing and through sharing you are helping me.

[@cocodakilla]

I can so see you as that supportive step mum lol! Your story is so amazing.

[@kyratrotter2158]

Thank you for sharing with us. A friend of mine put me on to you, and I'm glad he did. I'm a single mother of two, that has had a lot of those moments of being at my lowest. I'm also someone who refuses to ask for help from anyone. I'm at a point where I want things to change, I need things to change and I spent all night watching a lot of your videos. So thank you, you are inspiring and you gave me some great tips. 💜

[@MomsMoneyMindset]

Elaine Michelle, Omg I needed to hear another single mommy's story. I became a divorced single mom when my daughter was 11 months old. Thank you for sharing your story. It's so great to meet other single moms holding it down for their children and household. And I began being more budget conscious when I was pregnant and then once I entered into divorce with my daughter's father, I began cutting back A Lot and focusing more on debt freedom. Your story was not at all boring. It is nice to see where your passion for budgeting came from. Love this and love you!!

[@JustJoia]

It’s very brave of you to share your story Chelle. I pray that it’s eye opening for anyone who needs to hear it. I am so like you, not wanting to ask for help. It’s probably the hardest thing I had to do in life... get over my pride (which I swore I didn’t have).

[@loril507]

Loved the video!! I so understand what your talking about being independent however I got first hand feeling of depending on someone and if they leave you have nothing for yourself and your child/children that is not a good feeling at all so lady’s please Stash that little nest!!

[@keshabeeks5333]

I already felt like i could relate to you but you sharing your heart and experience about being a single mom its refreshing to know that a woman i watch has real life thanks for sharing keep up the great work

[@yvettecasey-hunter1504]

This video really touched me when I heard it last year. It’s impact has not diminished. Having been a single parent of 3 sons, through divorce, I can relate to what you said about not using up everything at one time. For mine, it was not being able to have the “name brand” gym shoes but more modestly priced shoes. And that grandparents had to support me in my decisions regarding these things. Having the perspective of years later, with my grandchildren graduating from high school and in college, being a mother totally dedicated to raising children with honor and integrity is so worth it. As Proverbs 31, “and her children will call her blessed.” Be blessed, EM.

[@frankybanky1]

Thank you so much for sharing, I can relate to a lot . I'm so happy you are doing so much better now. I'm now on my financial journey . My goal is to buy a house for me and my son in the next 3-4 years once I'm debt free, have a fully funded emergency fund as well as a house. down payment. Your story gives me even more hope!

[@queeniman2674]

Watching your videos really helped me with my emotional spending. I’ve learned so much thank you!

[@AllABOUTALICIA286]

Thanks for sharing your story. Great video. 😊❤

[@KezB]

Thank you for sharing, it's amazing that you realized you needed to change and actually did it!

[@7779311sassy]

I enjoyed your story! You are bringing me to tears because it was the same story of people very close to me. You are helping so many other young women who are coming into their own. Bless you!

[@NakishaWynn]

Whew chile! I understand on so many levels. Thank you for your transparency and sharing with us.

[@rikkipope27]

Whooooo!! Girl!! I FEEL you, like FEEL YOU!! I have 4 boys and am trying to re-write my story cus the struggle ain't it! It's a long journey and I get so discouraged at times due to other factors but I will keep pushing! We got this!! Sending you all the love and hugs!

[@mkeoppen20]

I can relate to this whole story, thank you for sharing. My daughter is six so I feel like I'm starting late but I'm excited for our financial future. Her dad is involved but has other children and is a poor financial mindset so I'm ready to step up.💕

[@shaysportal]

So happy this was recommended for me to watch. I am so new to budgeting but I am determined to stick it out and make it work

[@just__celia]

This was a great video. Thank you for doing it. I have been a single mother my son's whole life (he's 22 and graduating college). It hasn't been easy. But I always wanted to be a mom so I made it work. The world needs to see more strong mothers making it work. We get portrayed so negatively in society.

[@ncatstate]

You are always 💯! Thank you for sharing your story. 💕

[@JuneteenthBaby]

I can definitely relate. I am married we don't have any children, but I know how to take care of myself. I agree having a nest egg. Its ok. You are doing a great job and you are a great mom. I also struggle with asking for help when needed. 💜💜💜💜 much love from Dallas.

[@MissGammons]

You are so strong 💕 Your journey is such a testimony and how God is by our side even when we don’t feel it sometimes. So many will be able to feel and relate to your journey and give them hope through their storm. We can all take something from this. 💕

[@zeltael-amin5383]

great story....great advice for those who are having some difficulty in being a single, single parent or even married...loved your story...thanks for sharing it....you are such an inspiration to a whole lot of people who watch your channel...again thanks for the advice and sharing your story....kudos to all ....

[@Kiesha81]

This video relates to me on so many levels. Thank you for sharing. We all as single moms need to support and love on each other more than ever. ❤️

[@alldemmochalattesxoxo16]

Thank you for your testimony sis - I am not yet a mom but I can relate to your story about money management!

[@I_am_Enough78]

OMG this was so needed!! I am also a single mom of two and you give me hope that I will make it❤

[@tasia5152]

From one single mother to another keep up the great work! I just started planning and budgeting and your videos have been helpful! New subbie here!! On the road to my debt free journey 🙋🏾‍♀️

[@sheilalassiter8223]

That was such a great Message for women every where. Always enjoy your videos. 💜

[@TeevsTbabi]

I love this video. I started watching your videos in 2019 and you’ve help change my life on the budgeting side. I have 3 kids and a single mom with no help from the dads (only my parents )and milk definitely is expensive. My first 2 were on similac Allimentum and Enfamil AR and that stuff was almost $27 and wic only gave me 7 cans after 6months… I hate asking for help but you are absolutely right, I need to start asking because I hate to stress myself out. Thanks for sharing your story❤

[@mochamom95]

Our stories are similar. I was so ashamed for a long time. Thank you for sharing.

[@ariellebelizaire8365]

New subbie❤️! I can see being a single mother pretty soon. It’s a bit scary. But. Thank you for sharing your story ❤️.

[@MS.AndreaWC]

I definitely needed to see this. I've always been an emotional spender, and I need to do better.

[@stickers2daplan852]

So many women need to hear this thank you for sharing!

[@brandiealeman9377]

I came from Kristen's channel. I really like your channel and budget tips. Yes, girl they will try to eat you out of house and home.

[@scratchingnsurviving6699]

Your story sounds so familiar. I found myself going through some of the same struggles not so long ago. Your videos and few other KZbinrs definitely put me back on the right track. Thank you so much for sharing your story.

[@ericanavejar3439]

Thank you for sharing your story...it was very real and I could relate on so many levels. 😍 I honestly wish I would have learned hoe to budget as a teenager...my adult life would have been so much smoother😂😂😂

[@phileshajude8556]

thank you for this.. i recently ended my relationship with my 2 year old's dad.. and I've been going through it. Luckily my grandmother and mother always instilled in me to save for another day.. so on that end I'm fine and will continue to be fine. I just need to adjust to this new change and deal with the heavy emotional aspect of things.. I needed this video so much.. at the end of the day.. I will be okay!! Happy Belated Mother's Day!

[@NatalieAndersonGP]

Yes!!!!! Thank you for sharing your story. I hate it when I see a woman giving up themselves for another. be self-reliant.

[@dees_delights]

God is good, all the time!! You’re amazing for sharing your story. Stay blessed Michelle ❤️❤️❤️

[@Mindingthebizthatpayme]

Love the message. Staying on budget is key watching your videos taught me that 😌

[@IamNicoleJ]

Thanks E!! You have really inspired me to open up about my own (Married ➡️Single mother) situation. Although it’s a very personal matter, finances play a huge role in this transition as well. & I just want to encourage others because the road looks REAL cray cray right now but it will be OKAY! ❤️ Thanks again for your transparency!

[@shari_rates]

Thanks for being vulnerable and honest with your truth. The journey continues! Kudos to you. Keep the Faith.✝️

[@MichelleElaineOfficial]

Thank you soo much !!!!! It was very healing

[@juliebernard3776]

May God continue to bless you. Thanks for your bravery and the courage to share your story. I’m sure you blessed a lot of people as it blessed me.🤗

[@TheKrystolMethod]

Great video! Im not a Mom yet but I enjoyed you telling your story.

[@13bperez]

Thank you for your transparency! God is so good! You are a supermom!

[@brigettemajor7946]

Your transparency is amazing. Love you to LIFE for REAL ❤️

[@MichelleElaineOfficial]

😘😘😘 love you back 😘😘😘 thank you

[@lelablount3845]

#notificationsquad 👌🏾 thank you for being VERY transparent with us...I am a 32 year old single woman with no kids...I identify SOOO MUCH with your story...I know it's not easy but you make it make sense...I love it 🤗 please don't stop doing what you're doing. Your story blessed me

[@LovableLoveBugg]

I see relationship goals on your shelf! 💕

[@just_smile__planwith_deann1904]

Thank you!!! Not boring...more like inspiring!!!

[@michellerodarte1241]

Wow this video .... Love love love your mentality 💕 such a great person! Thank you for your advise ❤️ much needed.

[@sierracheyennee]

I love your videos! I don't have any children, but your story is great! Thank you for the story. To me it's a eye opener, your a phenomenal women! Honestly 💯

[@brwnbutterfly96j33]

Thank you for sharing! ✨💫 this helped give me the push I needed !

[@DeidraAnn]

This was so good!!

[@turkessataylor4462]

YESSSSSSS.... Single Mothers' Rock!!!!!!

[@Marquitabianca]

Love you for sharing your story boo and inspiring others!

[@pilyb28]

You're awesome Michelle! What an amazing testimony! Look at you now

[@BudgetTreasures]

Awesome video! Fellow single mom here! Keep rocking it. You are inspiring us to keep striving to be better for our babies! Thank you!

[@gotitrightonce88]

This was VERY timely! I’m an emotional spender and don’t feel so alone hearing from you! 💙💚thank you for sharing!!!!!

[@Daze_OF_Dani]

Thank you for your story....I can relate to alot of it even though my story and journey is different...I feel you!! When you said you had to over draw your account....I felt that!!😩...in a much better place now but always looking to grow!! Much love...and God bless you!!❤