Things To Do When You’re Broke: Smart Moves to Stay Productive and Positive

Written by: Kim PinnelliPosted in: Earning Money
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Feeling broke can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. Many people face this challenge, and it’s more common than you think. This post will guide you with practical things to do when broke, from saving smarter to earning extra cash.

Keep reading for simple steps that actually work!

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Shift Your Mindset First

Your thoughts shape your actions—and actions lead to change. Start small but stay consistent; mindset shifts can open doors you didn’t notice before.

Accept your current reality

Face the facts about your finances. Being honest with yourself is the first step forward. Pretending things are fine won’t help tackle credit card debt, overdue bills, or student loans.

It’s okay to feel upset or stressed, but don’t let shame take over.

Being broke does not define you as a person. Many people have faced financial instability and recovered. Remind yourself of past struggles you’ve overcome. Take a deep breath and accept where you are now without judgment.

This acceptance helps you focus on repayment plans and creating better financial goals for the future.

Focus on progress

Take small steps every day. Set clear financial goals and break them into smaller tasks. Celebrate wins, like paying off a small debt or sticking to your budget for a week. Progress happens through consistent actions, not overnight results.

Track improvements with tools like apps or a simple notebook. Even tiny changes matter, such as saving $10 or cutting one unnecessary expense this month. Treat money-making as a fun challenge instead of something heavy, just as Mark Silver suggests.

Change is possible for everyone if you focus on steady improvement each day!

Practice daily gratitude

Focus on what you have. Write down three good things each day to remind yourself of the positives in your life. This could be as simple as sharing a meal with someone, accessing free WiFi, or discovering a helpful resource.

Appreciating small wins can ease stress and make tough times feel lighter. Gratitude boosts mental health, helping you stay positive during financial struggles. Recognize community resources or support from friends as blessings, not burdens.

Avoid comparisons

Comparing yourself to others can hurt your progress. Social media often highlights wealth and success, but it rarely showcases struggles or debts, such as student loans. Judging your worth by someone else’s life limits your options and creates frustration.

Focus on your own goals instead of measuring against six-figure earners who may also face financial stress, such as medical bills or high rent. Limit time spent on content that pressures you to feel inadequate.

Your journey is unique, and valuing it helps you grow without distractions.

Assess and Prioritize Your Finances

Take control by listing your needs, cutting extras, and building a simple budget—small steps matter.

Take inventory of what you have

Gather all your bank statements, bills, and debts in one place. Know exactly what cash you have on hand or in accounts. List any savings or emergency funds available. Include non-monetary resources like skills, connections, or tools you own.

Write down every income source, no matter how small or irregular. Check for items you can sell to make quick money, like old gadgets or furniture. Consider using task management apps to stay organized as you track assets and expenses over time.

List essential expenses

Focus on rent, utilities, and food first. These are critical for your basic needs. Separate them from non-essential expenses, such as streaming services or dining out. Look at past statements to find recurring essential payments, such as medication or childcare.

This helps you see what’s truly necessary.

Track these costs to figure out your monthly minimum income. Create a bare-bones budget that prioritizes only essentials. Review this list regularly as life changes may shift what counts as essential for you over time.

Cancel or pause subscriptions

Check your bank or credit card statements for recurring charges. These small monthly costs can add up to hundreds of dollars yearly. Cancel anything you don’t truly need, like streaming services or gym memberships.

If canceling feels too harsh, pause them instead.

Contact service providers directly to ask for discounts or temporary holds. Many offer reduced rates if you explain your financial struggle. Utilize free options, such as library eBooks, YouTube tutorials, or public WiFi, as alternatives to paid services.

Set a reminder every few months to reassess what’s worth keeping.

Create a bare-bones budget

Cut all non-essential spending. Focus only on what you need to survive, like rent, food, utilities, and debt payments. Pause subscriptions or memberships that are not necessary right now.

Every dollar should have a purpose.

Track every expense with a spreadsheet or budgeting app. Set strict limits for things like groceries or gas. Review your budget weekly and adjust if needed. This method is temporary but helps until your finances improve.

Make Quick Cash (Even in Small Amounts)

Sell things you no longer use—declutter and earn at the same time. Offer simple services, such as running errands or babysitting, to bring in quick cash.

Sell unused items online

Go through your things and find items you don’t use. This could be clothes, books, gadgets, or furniture. Even small items can bring in some quick cash. Use local online marketplaces like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace to sell them fast.

Take clear photos of each item. Write honest descriptions so buyers know what they’re getting. The money you make can go toward essential expenses, helping ease financial stress while also decluttering your space.

Offer to run errands, babysit, clean, or tutor

Offer to help with errands, babysitting, cleaning, or tutoring. These jobs don’t require a lot of money to start and can provide quick cash. Let your neighbors or local community know you’re available.

Post on forums like Nextdoor or Facebook groups for more visibility.

Use your skills to stand out. If you’re good at math or a subject, offer tutoring sessions. Parents often pay well for babysitters they trust. Set fair rates based on what people charge in your area.

Word-of-mouth referrals can also help you find steady clients quickly!

Look for day gigs

Day gigs can bring quick cash when funds run low. Check gig economy platforms like Uber, DoorDash, or TaskRabbit for rideshare driving, food delivery, or handy work. Local classifieds also list one-off jobs such as event setup or yard work.

Seasonal opportunities, such as holiday retail or festival staffing, may also be beneficial.

Keep your schedule flexible to grab last-minute offers. Reliability matters most in day gigs; showing up on time and doing quality work increases your chances of getting hired again.

Even small jobs add up fast if you stay consistent!

Explore freelance platforms

Check out platforms like Upwork and Fiverr to find freelance gigs. These sites allow you to offer services such as writing, graphic design, data entry, or virtual assistance. You can start with little to no upfront cost by showcasing skills you already have.

Set up a profile that highlights your experience and abilities. Apply for small projects first to quickly build your portfolio. Quality work often leads to repeat clients and better-paying jobs.

With consistency, freelancing through these platforms can help cover expenses or pay off personal loans faster.

Use Free or Discounted Resources

Take advantage of what’s available in your area—you might be surprised at the options. Many places have free tools, help, or programs to make life easier when money is tight.

Community pantries or food banks

Visit local community pantries or food banks for free groceries and meals. Many programs don’t ask for much paperwork, making it easy to get help. Churches, charities, or civic groups often run these services nearby.

Do a quick online search to find one close to you.

These resources offer quick relief during challenging times. You can also check if they provide ongoing food aid based on eligibility. There’s no shame in using these programs—they’re here to support you.

If possible, consider volunteering there as well; it can help build connections while giving back.

Free WiFi at public places

Public places, such as libraries, offer free WiFi and computer access. Many libraries also host classes or workshops, giving you even more value at no cost. Use the internet there to search for jobs, learn new skills, or connect with helpful resources.

Local community centers often provide free internet, too. Schedule regular visits to these spaces. This access can help you stay updated on opportunities while saving money on data plans.

Free learning platforms

Free learning tools can help you grow skills without spending a dime. YouTube offers an endless array of educational videos covering job-related skills, languages, and more. Many public libraries provide free access to online learning resources, including LinkedIn Learning and Coursera courses.

Educational podcasts and free audiobooks let you learn on the go. Some websites also provide free coding lessons or basic design tutorials, which are valuable for freelancing opportunities.

Keep building knowledge; it can boost your confidence and open doors to better-paying jobs when you’re ready.

Government support programs

Call 211 for help finding local services. Programs like SNAP (food stamps), TANF, Medicaid, and utility assistance are there for basic needs. You can get support for food, housing, and healthcare.

Check Benefits.gov to explore options quickly. Apply early to avoid delays in getting help. Organize your documents to speed up approvals. Many programs have multilingual support, so language won’t be a barrier.

Focus on Self-Improvement

Use this time to build yourself—grow your skills, feed your mind, and aim for better opportunities ahead.

Read books

Visit your local library and get a free library card. With it, you can borrow physical books or access digital ones online without spending money.

Focus on books about personal finance and self-growth. These can teach you how to save, budget, or build wealth over time. Reading also keeps your mind sharp while entertaining at no cost.

Libraries often host book clubs, too, giving you a chance to learn and connect with others for free!

Learn new skills

Pick up free skills online. Platforms like YouTube offer lessons on a wide range of topics, from graphic design to cooking. Libraries often provide free classes, digital resources, or even workshops in your area.

Choose practical skills that boost employability. For example, learn to type faster, basic coding, or social media marketing for a side hustle. Set clear goals and track your progress daily to stay motivated.

Trying hobbies like knitting or calligraphy can also lead to income opportunities while keeping costs low.

Watch motivational content

Watch free motivational videos on YouTube to stay inspired. Use public WiFi at libraries or cafes if you lack internet access at home. These videos can lift your mood, reduce stress, and help you focus on solutions instead of problems.

Subscribe to podcasts that share success stories or tips for personal growth.

Set aside time daily for uplifting content. Share what inspires you with friends or support groups, so others benefit too. Balancing these moments with actionable steps can keep you moving forward without feeling stuck.

Journal your thoughts and goals

Write down your goals to stay focused. Break them into small, clear steps you can take daily. Track progress and celebrate small wins to keep yourself motivated.

Use journaling for gratitude, too. List three things you’re thankful for each day. This boosts positivity and helps shift focus from stress to solutions. Write about challenges and brainstorm ways to solve them.

Keep it simple but consistent!

Explore Ways to Save or Stretch What You Have

Cutting costs can make a big difference when money is tight. Simple choices and planning can help your dollars last longer.

Cook at home

Cooking at home saves a lot of money. Skip takeout and expensive restaurants, and stick to simple meals. Use affordable staples like rice, beans, pasta, or eggs. These foods cost less but keep you full.

Meal prepping can help, too. Cook in large batches; store leftovers for later.

Learn free recipes online through cooking blogs or YouTube channels. Tracking your grocery spending helps avoid waste and overspending. Involve your family or roommates to make cooking fun and share costs.

Eating at home stretches your budget while supporting healthier eating habits!

Use cashback apps or loyalty rewards

Sign up for cashback apps and loyalty programs. Many are free, easy to use, and help save money without much effort. Use them when buying groceries or essentials. Apps like Rakuten or Ibotta offer rebates on everyday items.

Some stores give discounts through their rewards cards, too.

Track your points and redeem them for future savings. Share your referral codes with friends to earn bonus rewards quickly. Be mindful of what you buy, though; avoid overspending just to earn points.

Small rebates add up over time if used wisely!

Walk or bike instead of paying

Save money by walking or biking instead of using a car. It reduces transportation expenses, such as gas, parking fees, and maintenance. For short trips, walking is free and simple. Biking saves time compared to walking while remaining cost-effective.

Organize your errands efficiently to minimize the need for additional trips. For longer distances, use public transit if it suits your budget. Carpooling is another affordable option when necessary.

Walking or biking saves money while also benefiting your health! Keep track of your savings for extra motivation.

DIY repairs

Fixing things yourself saves cash and builds confidence. Start with small tasks, like tightening loose screws or fixing a leaky faucet. Free online tutorials can guide you step-by-step.

Borrow tools from friends or check community centers that lend them out.

Focus on essential repairs first to keep your space safe and livable. Simple fixes, such as patching holes in walls or cleaning clogged drains, extend the life of what you own. Keep track of your completed repairs to see how much money you’ve saved over time!

Build or Improve Your Resume and Online Presence

Polish your resume to clearly showcase your strengths. Make sure your online profiles reflect your skills and goals, too.

Update your resume

Add new skills you learned during downtime. Highlight any freelance work, volunteer roles, or courses you completed. Tailor your resume for specific jobs by matching the keywords in job descriptions.

Use numbers to show achievements, like “boosted sales by 20%.”.

Keep it clean and simple. Choose a clear font and easy-to-read format. Save a digital copy so you can quickly update or send it when needed. Ask friends or mentors to review it for extra feedback.

Regularly refresh your content to keep it current and relevant.

Create a free online portfolio or blog

Use free platforms like Wix or WordPress to build your portfolio without spending money. Share samples of your work, add links to past projects, and include testimonials from clients or employers.

Keep the content relevant to the jobs you want. Update regularly as you grow and complete new tasks. Add the link to applications or resumes for more exposure online. Your blog can also show off skills while helping you establish expertise in a niche field.

Polish your job profiles

Update your job profiles on platforms like LinkedIn. Highlight your skills, achievements, and experiences clearly. Make sure every detail is consistent across all online platforms.

Use keywords related to the industries you want to target.

Get professional recommendations or endorsements from former colleagues. Add an updated profile photo that looks polished and professional. Join groups or forums relevant to your career for networking opportunities.

Engage actively by posting updates, commenting on industry news, and connecting with professionals in your field.

Start applying for jobs

Begin sending out job applications now. Set a daily goal, like submitting five applications each day. Keep track of the jobs you apply for and note any responses or follow-ups needed.

Use free job boards, local classifieds, and online platforms to find openings that fit your skills.

Personalize every cover letter to match the role you’re applying for. Employers notice this effort, and it boosts your chances. Follow up politely after a week if you don’t hear back about an application.

Ask friends or family for referrals, too, as recommendations can make a big difference in landing interviews.

Start a Side Hustle from Home (No Capital Needed)

Turn your skills into cash from home—there are plenty of ways to start small and grow big.

Offer freelance services

Use your skills to make money online. Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr enable you to offer services such as writing, graphic design, or data entry. Start with small projects to build trust and experience.

Lower rates can quickly attract new clients.

Create a strong profile to stand out. Include precise details about what you do best, past work examples, and competitive pricing. Happy clients may return or refer others! Track completed work for future use as your portfolio grows, too.

Sell digital downloads

Create simple, useful downloads people need. Design templates for resumes, planners, or budgeting sheets. Explore trending niches, such as meal plans or workout guides. Use free tools like Canva to build these products.

Host your files on platforms such as Etsy or Gumroad with no upfront cost. Share your work through social media and online forums to draw interest. Bundle items together for better value and update based on feedback to keep customers coming back.

Teach online

Offer online tutoring or lessons in your area of expertise. Platforms like VIPKid or Preply can connect you with students. Free tools like Zoom or Google Meet make setting up virtual sessions easy.

You can teach anything, from math and languages to cooking or music.

Use social media groups or forums to market your services. Ask happy students for testimonials to attract more clients. Record lessons and sell them later as digital downloads for passive income.

Online teaching gives you a flexible schedule while earning extra cash quickly!

Try affiliate marketing or reselling

Affiliate marketing is simple to start and requires no upfront money. Join programs that match your interests, like Amazon Associates or ShareASale. Promote their products online using a blog or social media platforms.

Each time someone buys through your link, you earn a commission. Track earnings regularly to see what works and improve strategy.

Reselling offers another easy way to make cash from home. Sell unused items on sites like eBay or Facebook Marketplace. Research high-demand goods if sourcing new items for resale, such as vintage clothing or electronics.

Keep profits growing by studying trends and pricing smartly online!

Connect with People (and Ask for Help if Needed)

Lean on your network—they can provide advice, leads, or opportunities you might not see alone. Building genuine connections often opens doors to unexpected help or insights.

Reach out to friends or family

Talk openly about your financial struggles with loved ones. Be honest, so there’s no confusion. Explain what you’re going through and share how they could support you, even in small ways.

Ask for help only if needed and make sure to plan repayment if borrowing money. If cash isn’t an option, request non-financial help like shared meals or using their resources. Always show gratitude for any assistance, and when you’re able, offer them help in return to maintain balance in the relationship.

Join support groups or forums

Connect with support groups or forums to share your struggles and wins. These spaces provide emotional support, practical advice, and shared resources for financial planning. You can learn about free local services, job leads, or savings hacks from people who have been through the same challenges.

Look for groups focused on money management or career growth. Many exist online through social media or community platforms. If possible, attend in-person meetups in your area for stronger connections.

Contribute value by sharing advice or helpful information when you can. This builds trust and creates a positive exchange of ideas.

Ask for job referrals

Reach out to friends, family, or past coworkers for job referrals. Let them know you are actively searching for work. Share specific details about the kind of job you want so they can guide you better.

Keeping in touch regularly increases your chances of hearing about openings.

Use social media platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals in your field. Post updates about your skills or projects to stay visible. Networking groups and forums can also lead to valuable leads and recommendations if approached thoughtfully.

Offer value in exchange

Offer your skills or time to others. You can babysit, clean, or help with errands in exchange for money or support. If you have a talent, such as tutoring or fixing things, use it to assist someone who may offer help in return.

Join community groups to find skill-sharing opportunities. Trade services like cooking, car repairs, or house cleaning for advice. Volunteering also connects you with people who may share resources and appreciate your effort.

Take Care of Your Physical and Mental Health

Your body and mind need you now more than ever—treat them well. Small daily actions can boost your energy and mood, even when money is tight.

Sleep regularly and exercise

Stick to a sleep schedule. Aim for 7-9 hours of rest each night, as this boosts brain function and emotional stability during tough times. Sleep helps you think clearly, manage stress better, and make smarter financial decisions.

Include exercise in your daily routine. Walk outside or ride a bike; it’s free and can help reduce anxiety while improving your mood. Moving your body also helps alleviate feelings of hopelessness and promotes overall physical health.

Simple activities like stretching at home can work wonders, too!

Eat nourishing meals

Eating healthy food keeps your body strong and your mind clear. Cooking meals at home is cheaper and better for you than eating out. Choose simple, wholesome ingredients like rice, beans, vegetables, and eggs.

These are filling, affordable, and packed with nutrients.

Skip processed snacks or fast food, as they cost more in the long run. Meal prepping can save both time and money. For example, make a big pot of soup that lasts for days or cook extra pasta to store for later meals.

Staying nourished helps you handle stress better while managing tight finances.

Avoid harmful habits

Stop tying your worth to money. Your income doesn’t define you, and this mindset adds stress. Focus on what you can control, like budgeting or learning new skills.

Skip costly entertainment or unhealthy addictions. Avoid relying on alcohol, smoking, or overspending for comfort. Use free community activities for fun instead of spending more than you have.

Practice mindfulness

Take a few minutes each day to focus on your breathing. Deep breaths can calm your mind and help reduce stress caused by financial struggles. Meditation apps like Calm or Headspace offer free guided sessions that are easy to follow.

Avoid letting negative thoughts take over. Instead, shift attention to small wins, like saving money on groceries or finding a temporary gig. Gratitude journaling also helps you notice the good in tough times, boosting mental well-being and motivation.

Plan for the Future

Set small, clear goals and take steps daily—your future depends on the choices you make now!

Set short-term goals

Break your goals into small, clear steps. Focus on something you can achieve in a week or two, like saving $20 or cutting one unnecessary expense. These quick wins help you stay motivated.

Celebrate every little success. Each step builds momentum and shows progress. Tracking these changes makes it easier to see how far you’ve come.

Create a post-payday action list

List your priorities right after payday. Allocate funds for rent, utilities, and groceries first. Set aside a small amount for an emergency fund, even if it’s just $10 to start. Track all expenses to avoid overspending.

Plan how much to put toward debts or savings goals next. Consider using cash envelopes for specific categories, such as gas or food, to stay on budget. Make adjustments as needed while maintaining focus on both progress and long-term stability.

Build financial habits

Start setting up small financial goals. Save $5 a week, even if it feels tiny. Over time, these habits accumulate and foster discipline. Use personal finance apps to track spending and stick to your budget.

Plan for an emergency fund once you regain stability. Aim for three months of essential expenses as a safety net. Stick to spending on needs over wants until you reach that goal.

Visualize your goals

Picture your future goals. Set clear and specific financial targets. Break them into smaller, manageable steps. For example, if you want to save $500 in three months, aim for $168 each month or about $42 per week.

This makes progress feel easier and less overwhelming.

Create a vision board with images that inspire you. Use photos of things like a debt-free life, savings balance, or even small rewards you’ll treat yourself to later. Look at it daily as a reminder of what you’re working toward.

Celebrate every milestone reached; this keeps motivation high while building good habits along the way!

The Bottom Line

Being broke is tough, but it doesn’t last forever. Small steps can lead to big change. Focus on what you can control today and build from there. Take care of yourself while working toward a better future.

You’ve got this!

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