I Earn ₱80K, But I Still Feel Stuck

“Okay ka na, dapat.”

That’s what people say when they hear you’re earning ₱60K, ₱80K, or even ₱100K per month.

They say you’re lucky.

That you should be thankful.

That you should have it all figured out by now.

And you are thankful.

But deep down… You still feel stuck.

You’re not lazy.

You’re not reckless.

But somehow, despite your income, you can’t shake the stress.

No savings. No freedom. No peace of mind.

Just pressure. Expectations. And the quiet guilt of “Why am I still not okay?”

When Earning More Still Doesn’t Feel Like Progress

This is one of the most heartbreaking struggles we don’t talk about enough.

You might be earning above average, but still feel:

• Financially trapped

• Emotionally exhausted

• Behind compared to peers or relatives

• Embarrassed to even admit you're struggling

The causes?

Lifestyle inflation – You earn more → You help more people → You upgrade your life → You’re still left with nothing

Cultural obligations – Family support, padala pressure, guilt from saying “no”

Lack of safety nets – Rising costs and no room for error

Silent comparison – Seeing friends/collegues abroad with cars, condos, or “success stories” and wondering why you’re not there yet

My Honest Experience

When my income went above ₱30K a few years ago, I already had a decent foundation in place.

I was saving, even investing small amounts.

But I also know that came from a place of privilege:

I didn’t have major financial burdens.

And I had the space to think long-term.

That’s why I’m not writing this to say: “If I can do it, you can too.”

Instead, I’m saying: “If you feel stuck, you’re not alone. And it’s not your fault.”

But it is your responsibility to take back control.

The Comparison Trap

I’ve had those thoughts too.

Seeing others, especially those who had gone abroad and climbed faster than I.

It made me question if I made the right choices.

But every time I zoom out, I remember this:

• I work from home

• I spend time with my family

• I have freedom that no regular 9–5 could give me

We all have our paths.

And your version of success doesn’t have to look like theirs.

What Helped Me Move Forward (And Might Help You Too)

Here’s what helped me reframe that stuck feeling:

1. Reflect on what you actually want.

What does peace look like for you? What does “unstuck” mean?

2. Know your numbers.

You might be earning enough, but if your money has no structure, it’ll disappear.

3. Focus on systems, not just goals.

Create automations. Use a budgeting system that fits your lifestyle, not just what gurus preach.

4. Talk to people who get it.

Sometimes, just knowing your struggle is real and valid can release half the pressure.

5. Play the long game.

Everything is a test of time and iteration. You’ll figure it out—if you give yourself time and strategy.

Closing Thoughts: You’re Not Alone in This

You’re not crazy for feeling stuck.

Even high earners feel lost sometimes.

Even people with “okay” lives want more.

And that’s okay.

You don’t need to feel guilty for wanting to breathe.

You don’t need to suffer in silence just because others have it harder.

If you want help building a system that brings you peace, not pressure,

Book a free 30-min call here → calendly.com/mr-ricyu/30min

Let’s get you unstuck.

One step at a time.

—Ric