School doesn’t teach us how to manage our money. While rent, insurance, and Postmates gouge our wallets, we’re expected to figure it out as we go. It’s overwhelming to sort through all our expenses, but here are some tips to manage financial anxiety and worry less about money on a daily basis.

Talk to friends and family

We all have that one friend who seems to have an unlimited budget. Going along with their hangout plans and food choices means economy toilet paper and dollar store steak the rest of the month!

Remember that if you get along with your friend on a fundamental level, the actual setting of your hangout shouldn’t matter.

Sometimes it’s embarrassing to talk about money, but setting spending boundaries can be really helpful. Be transparent with your loved ones about what you can contribute or afford without suffering in other parts of your life.

They shouldn’t want you to feel stressed over whether you’ll get drinks tonight, or eat lunch today, and if they shame you for your situation… that’s a good way to tell they don’t have your best interests at heart, so no shame anyway.

Check in with yourself

Research on mindfulness has shown it can strongly reduce anxious feelings, and financial anxiety is no different. Checking in to see how you are feeling and what exactly triggered those anxious feelings can help. Was it seeing the total for those plane tickets home? Or checking your bank statement? Are you feeling guilty, sad, or ashamed? Make it a point to consistently practice these mindfulness techniques of checking on your body, on how you are feeling, and why you are feeling that way. Downloading an app like Headspace, meditating daily, or just taking a quiet moment to hear your own thoughts can help bring you peace despite the tight wallet.

In addition to mindfulness, continue taking care of yourself! Self-care is incredibly important, so make sure you still take time to partake in those habits that keep you going.

You don’t have to go broke, to have a good time

Everyone has struggled with finances at some point, and you are not alone in your struggle. Remember that at the end of the day, taking care of yourself is of the utmost importance. Seek help when you need it, be mindful of both your spending and yourself, and enjoy the freedom of living within your means!