Cash-strapped Australians have given up the small luxuries they must give up to stay afloat, including fresh fruit, bread and internet.
In a post shared on Instagram, She is worth the money asked people to name the things they love but “can’t justify.”
Some people reported having to give up their love of expensive gadgets, gym memberships and luxury massages.
But others admitted that they also had to give up their simple pleasures.
Expensive groceries such as olive oil, bread, cheese, salmon, chocolate, fresh fruit and vegetables – especially strawberries – topped the list.
“Bread is ridiculously expensive – almost $5 for some loaves and the cheapest is still $3,” one woman said.
Products such as dishwashing tablets, public transport and even health insurance were among the basic necessities that people now no longer have access to.
“Health insurance. I feel it in my soul,” said one woman.
Expensive groceries such as olive oil, bread, cheese, salmon, chocolate, fresh fruits and vegetables – especially strawberries – topped the list
Many Australians, fearful of inflation, have even switched supermarkets to save money, with one woman refusing to shop at Coles or Woolworths.
“Everything has become so expensive. I’ve been shopping at the market and the fresh and save in our neighborhood. So much cheaper,” she said.
‘Luckily I have Aldi, I only shop online now so I don’t get tempted in the supermarket… I hear you all! It’s getting risky,’ agreed another woman.
One woman admitted that she gave up rent and was forced to move back in with her parents because living alone was no longer affordable on her current salary.
Others said they hadn’t bought any new clothes. One mother, for example, hadn’t bought anything for herself in years.
Many young women said they no longer go to the hairdresser at all. Some dyed their own hair, while others had dark roots or simply let it grow.
“Who would have thought that your natural color, if you give it a chance to shine, is actually perfect. The best thing I’ve done this year,” said one woman.
Eating out and informal café visits – especially on public holidays or weekends – are other pleasures and conveniences that Australians often miss.
“$44 for avocado on toast and a juice this morning, $4 surcharge on Saturday, WTF,” one woman complained.
People also stopped using Botox, cocktails, expensive gadgets, home internet and Pilates classes.
But many could not believe how ‘basic’ the items were that had become unaffordable for the average Australian.
“The sad thing is that they’re not all super fancy,” one woman said.
‘“It’s sad that we have to find ways to adapt so we can afford the basics. This is 2024, not 1934,” another woman agreed.
Others said it’s not so much about giving up life’s little luxuries altogether, but being more selective about when you enjoy them.
‘I I think you can still enjoy a lot of those things if you find the right deal. I pay $1.30 for bread and I found a public gym with fitness, pilates, yoga and swimming pool,’ said one man.
“I have a pod machine, but when I get coffee I go to Woolies during the week and that nice cafe at the weekend,” he added.