Well said Bukola. Loved the last one. I hear “do what you love or follow your passion and the money will come” lie too often. As you said we live in a capitalist society with actual markets.
Tell me you're a child of immigrant parents without telling me you're a child of immigrant parents.... consider not following your passion 😄!!!! I completely agree and am happy that now we're starting to have conversations about reconsidering your passion as being separate from your job / career
My daughters (ages 12 & 13) watch every one of her videos. That's the difference you have made down here in New Orleans - they want to be software engineers. Your parents raised a beautiful child ❤️
My boyfriend and I were literally discussing this earlier today. I'm Afro-Caribbean and when I was a teenager discussing my passions with my parents, the first thing out of their mouths was, "But that doesn't make any money." My siblings and I were constantly reminded that we needed to focus on getting the 💰.
If you are an immigrant I will highly discourage the so called “not so good majors” especially if you go to a regular college (non ivy or top 50). if you really look at those who often major in those, they come from money, are not aware or just don’t care much about earning a certain amount of money. As for immigrants we have no time to waste nor do we have that luxury. And the argument that “oh, you can major in anything and work in tech/ high paying job” may be true but it will be extremely hard to pivot, you will waste so much time trying to break in, if you even make it. Save yourself time and tears and major in something that can earn you big money, You will thank me later! Besos ❤️
@@destinyadam1868 no one wants to tell people that we live on earth and life is getting more difficult by the day. We should strive to make our life more comfortable and enjoyable and that’s really hard, damn near impossible with empty pockets. Ask anyone that’s struggling financially and they will tell you.
@@helloworlddie you are speaking nothing but FACTS. This generation is just sugar coating everything and makes it seem like money doesn’t matter, just follow your passion and you’ll be fine. Unfortunately this isn’t the case for many. Especially immigrants kids that come with a whole lot of pressure and battles to fight.
On number 3, I remember being told at one point that soon we will come into a time where having a side hustle isn't a luxury but a necessity. I'm only high school but, I feel that popularizing this idea of having a side hustle or doing all these things to make money is more sad than motivating. Because what it truly means is that the average job does not allow one to live comfortably, and that's more of a failure on our world's end.
I totally agree that lifestyle inflation can be a great thing. I now pay a much higher amount for rent but I moved into a neighborhood that has the #1 public school in the city. So I do not have to pay for my daughter to go to private school. We have a roomier place. We’re also in a lively and enjoyable location. It’s one of the best decisions.
The renting vs owning is a no brainer. The money you pay for rent, you are NEVER seeing again. NEVER. At least with owning, you see most of that money again and even potentially MORE money than you spent.
Yea, I can’t agree with point #1. But if you’re young I don’t think there is a rush. Personally, I would be strategic when it comes to renting in expensive cities
This depends on the state you're in. In NYC, this is not a no brainer. A mortgage will cost way more than renting. Houses without renovation do not necessarily appreciate either. Property taxes also do not go away just because you own.
I agree so much with the argument that not all lifestyle inflation is bad!! I’ve been taking the bus everywhere for both years i’ve been in college so far and I’ve recently purchased a car and from the few days i’ve traveled to work by the car, the much higher cost of transport was sooo worth it to me. I can absolutely justify spending more money on transport if it means I save an hour of my time every day, don’t have to carry my heavy laptop the whole time and the part i’m looking forward to the most - i won’t have to wait for the bus in winter and freeze my bum off anymore. That was just to add to your already solid point🥳 i’m always supportive of spending more if it means something positive for your mental or physical wellbeing
As a liberal arts grad, I'd add an addendum to that last point. I'd say follow your passion but follow it smartly. When I was in university I was so focused on academia, I wasn't thinking about my long-term career goals. I'd say do internships, see what your passion is actually like. Maybe you think you know what it would be like, but you don't actually know. Ask people who have your dream job what other sources of support they have. When I was in grad school, the people who usually did the best were people who had spouses they could rely on for income. That's not something you'd find in a college brochure. Follow your passion, but make sure you have support cause it will be difficult. To my peers who got into lucrative fields to make money, most had at least one nervous breakdown or transitioned to a different field entirely.
Getting into Real Estate is trash in NY so I can see what you’re saying. But for my southern folk, get into it if you can. Great points in this video🔥🔥🔥
I used to think having multiple sources of income was the way to go, but at this point in my life I just want one job that can pay me enough to live comfortably, buy what I want, while only working 40hrs a week.
I agree with all of your assessments Bukola, no tomatoes over here. Focusing on doing one tech job well and investing in the stock market is more effective than having several side hustles, in my experience, and gives more time to actually enjoy your life. And I agree with your comments about following your passion: if you like art and creativity, do it as your hobby to unwind, and do something adjacent like UX design to pay the bills and save for early retirement. Lots more time to follow your passion if you're already financial independent. Good advice, thanks for sharing your content with the world.
YESSS I used to be PLAGUED by the "follow your passion" work narrative. At some point in my 20s, I realized this wasn't an attainable strategy if I wanted any sort of quality of life, and am so glad I let myself pursue something I wasn't "passionate" about but that was way more financially secure. It's definitely a privilege to be able to seek that out in your work life, and we don't all have that luxury. Also, really appreciate you being real about the realities of pursuing side hustles/multiple "passive" income streams. If it's not truly passive, I'm not interested LOL
I’m happy that I purchased my home. I’m not really afraid of getting things fixed if need be because I have warranties. Plus I don’t want to wait on landlords or apartment maintenance. I love the freedom of doing what I want to my home as far as changes but I say do what makes more sense for you and makes you happy. Good video.
I have been thinking about how multiple side hustles are exhausting and you just confirmed my thoughts. It takes times to manage so many different projects. I am deffo planning to keep it at under 2. This way I can still live a slower paced life and enjoy the present moments more, than working none stop. ✨
A friend of mine is a CPA and he says this all time. Focus is your greatest asset. I've been considering moving to Software to increase my income to the $200K+ range (Around $100K right now from Small Business) When you have one focus, you can optimize your time way better. You become wealthy with Focus. The multiple side hustle myth comes from the internet course industrial complex.
I agree with not following your passion. When I was 14 my boyfriend at the time would tell me his dreams of being a famous drummer one day. I remember telling him "yeah, but that career choice is impractical. There's only a small chance that you'll make money from it." Eventually we broke up. I grew up and forgot the logic I once had. I graduated high school with the intent to become a famous singer. It's been 7 years since then and I've released some songs/music videos, but made no money from them. Finally this year I realized I didn't follow my younger self's advice and I'm halfway through my twenties, broke af. I'm going back to school now for neuroscience. Having a path to a future that I know makes money has me feeling much more secure than when I was trying to make it as a singer. Now I just do singing as a hobby.
Good Luck! Education is often a way up and/or out of bad decisions or situations. It was fortunate and smart that you had self-reflection and change your situations. You will succeed because you practice critical thinking. Bravo!
Honestly, I don’t agree with the advice, as a musician, there are a lot of spots right now for talented drummers, well musicians overall. The issue was the notion of being famous. Becoming a session musician is valid since they make a lot of money, the travel, but aren’t really famous. Don’t focus on the fame aspect focus on building a career and networking would have been better advice for him.
I disagree with the real estate point. I understand this video is from your perspective living in a city so it makes sense why you may think this way, but that is not indicative of real estate as a class of investments which is what you're implying in this video. It is a great investment, even in those high cost living areas because unlike renting when you pay down your mortgage you gain equity in the asset that is the property, no amount of paying rent will gain you equity so your apartment comparison in New Jersey is a moot point because you did not factor in any equity that you get. Owning will always be cheaper than renting in the long term because of the fact that you gain equity and real estate appreciates in value. Mortgages should be looked at as a " savings account" that you can live in because short of something bad happening the value of the land you own appreciates overtime and by extension the real estate on top of that land. There are tax advantages to real estate as well to include the 1031 exchange allowing you to sell an appreciated house without triggering a tax event. Not to mention that the property in itself can generate income by renting it out and having tenets pay for mortgage and associated fees. Doing that is literally making other people pay off an asset that you own
I agree, but I think she was trying to make the point that was echoed in points 2, 3, and 4 about enjoying your quality of life. Owning is more expensive than renting currently so if people buy a house, they'll be house poor and won't live the lifestyle the my want to for 5+ years. Yes, it will have *a lot* more equity than renting in the end, but it's not as viable as it was 20+ years ago (or even 3 years ago). But I agree that "isn't a good investment" wasn't the right choice of words there.
I'd say she is right. She did say unpopular opinion so no surprise not all agree. Measure real estate "adjusted for inflation" historically it is not as high as you think. It may hold value well and be a good hedge against inflation longterm, yes. A professional investor may achieve serious economies of scale from running a large portfolio but for the regular investor with 1-5 properties (which is what we are talking about here) an investment in S&P 500 probably returns better on average historically with less stress but of course some ego loss from not "owning" something physical. Standard Rule of thumb if you live in a place for less than 5 years you should probably rent it.
I soo agree with you. My rule of thumb is mental health always comes first. Then find a job enough to pay your bills. Then start a side project something you are very passionate about. Then make sure you can relax, entertain yourself, enjoy life, Moderation is key.
I don’t agree with point #1. I still think that real estate is a great investment. But it should be a very thoughtful decision that includes lifestyle. Run the numbers to get an affordable mortgage (ask your agent for help, don’t use all of the money the bank approves you for). I also waited until I wanted to sit still for a little to buy (as I have no desire to be a landlord at this time). I live in a condo. Not my forever home, but I’m building equity. Value has already gone up in two years.
I agree on lifestyle inflation. I save and invest, but I cap it at a certain dollar amount because I like being able to enjoy some of it and to be there for my family. If I saved everything and spent nothing I don't think I could face being in this same profession for 20+ more years. We're not getting this time back, and some things are better to invest in before your 40s and 50s, like your health and relationships.
Excellent video! All your points are great although it does surprise me that renting is more cost effective than homeowning given the equity you build owning your own home. I'd also expect a landlord to charge the full mortgage cost plus extra to a tenant negating any difference between the tenant renting or owning the same property.
Hi Bukola, this was a great video! The point that I agreed with the most was # 4. I think sometimes when we’re young, we’re made believe that if we just do what we love, money will come and unfortunately that is not always the case. Thank you for talking about this :)
Can't agree more to every of these. Time, happiness, flexibility and predictable income are so much undervalued. Funny that here in NYC lots of musicians I previously knew were very actively performing at events, and *barely* making a living teaching kids instruments on the side, are now real estate agents 😆
Generational wealth and realestate is not focused on owning a personal home. It is more focused on owning buildings like complexes or multiple rental properties. Things that bring you money.
Good advice. My passion was playing football. The only problem was that I was a borderline athlete that needed extra time to get to the next level. Instead of sacrificing CS degree, I decided of be a full time student. I always have the what if’s when facing challenges in tech. My nephew in college now has decided to go all in on football and getting a Business Administration degree instead of STEM.
You are absolutely right but I’d say it’s also all dependent on where you’re looking. But I’ll say owning a home it’s definitely not a walk in the park
The fourth advice is good. Sometimes I struggle between passion (which I don’t even know or haven’t explored) or staying ur co-worker at Google for the stable paychecks. But there really shouldn’t be any struggle for me as I do need the money to support my parents and my siblings and having the “following ur passion” idea in my head just made me feel guilty as it seems that I’m not living my one and only life as I should. Let’s admit it, most of the people don’t have the privilege to pursue ur passion in this capitalism game.
Everything you say makes sense and I fully agree with all of the above. Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts on making money because many people are still misinformed about how money actually works. But things get more complicated when we talk about family people with children. The constant change of residence and school can be very stressful for them, and we have to be realistic about this. For those who never plan to have a family, well, this is just a dream life, but life definitely changes after having children, and owning a home becomes more of a necessity rather than a luxury. In general, I think that modern capitalism is definitely a great environment for single people and not very family friendly.
It also depends on the market you are buying in. I airbnd a property I purchased after I purchased a bigger one that generates me income as well as covers the mortgage on that property. I can see how it would be more difficult in NYC- I actually lived there for many years and had bought and sold a home there.
Bukola, you're wise beyond your age (like I know how old you are 😀). But seriously, all of your advise are spot on, especially the last one on following your passion - strategically if you must. Too many "gurus" led people down that path for their own quick gains in the capitalism system as you mentioned. Following one's passion sustainably takes time, effort and yes, money. So one needs some source of income to even support their passion. I just subscribed, you're really good 👍🏿
Yea I'm one of those went to school for graphic design and now do UX lol. Which I have no regrets on thankfully. I think for me, I knew that just going to art school was not going to be the highest paying career but I was strongly interested in pursuing it anyway. I guess that's that pAsSioN folks be talking about. But I was mad strategic about finding the job I wanted first and then lining up my studies to match; end up adding marketing as a minor...and then later web development as a second major 🥲it all worked out though but man it's kinda hard to have TOO many interests you want to pursue too. I actually didn't disagree with any of your takes tbh though, you gotta play the game to win. The game is capitalism.
Love your content! Your content really helped me find myself as a new Tech RUclipsr that switched careers to the tech industry recently. I'll keep watching your future videos!
I agree with all of your points. One that really hits hard for me is not following your passion. I really wanted to become an airline pilot when I was a teenager and even attended an aeronautical college for a couple of semesters after graduating high school. After realizing how much debt I'd be buried in, I decided to switch to mechanical engineering. After a long, winding road, I'm now enrolled in an SDE training program and about 3 months away from OJT. Looking back, it wouldn't have been smart to take on all of that debt, especially considering the current state of the airline industry, where a lot of pilots are overworked and underpaid. With an SDE salary, I'll probably be able to at least get my private pilot's license and fly in my free time.
My parents both grew up very poor, but were able to build wealth through real estate. With that being said, they ultimately did this in military cities that aren’t nearly as expensive as big cities. The market in those cities was also way different in the 80s than right now
Such a great video, Bukola! I very much agree with most of your perspectives, especially the ones about side hustles and passions. I am Jamaican American and my parents talked me out of every creative career LOL (I wanted to be a dancer). I went to school and got a more practical degree, did internships, and now I make almost $70k. That doesn’t put me in the super duper high-earner category BUT I help my family and have almost $30k in retirement, about $21k in high-yield savings / personal investments, HEALTH INSURANCE 🤧🤧🤧, and I can afford to *consistently* take dance classes and pay team dues. But more importantly, I don’t feel like I’m digging myself out of a hole every month. I wouldn’t change a single thing! I hope all our black sisters and brothers realize that following your passion without any regard for practicality is not something WE can do unless we are the few of us who have generational wealth (aka a paid-off house to inherit and live in if ish hits the fan). Congratulations on everything you’ve accomplished, Bukola!! So happy to see it!! 🥰🥰🥰
About Renting is always cheaper than Buying. I don't agree 100%, it will cost more to acquire of course, but you can sell it after some years eventually for more than you bought (even if we take inflation into account) it can feel like you were renting for free during all those years, but when you renting, you pay that rent that money is gone forever.
I think financial rules for today's young people have changed so much compared to our parents generation (and that generation specifically) so it's good to revisit to see what is still true. I agree that buying real estate is not today as doable or valuable as in the past, especially when you review the growth in value in some metropolitan areas. However, I do think lifestyle creep is the thing that will result in the financial demise for young people. Previous generations didn't have the same reasons to spend money compared to today (e.g. Starbucks or any premium coffee places didn't really come to most cities until the 1990s; back then you didn't really buy pricey beverages like that on the go like you do today) and they certainly weren't spending the same amounts of money on things like entertainment, fast fashion wasn't what it is now, etc. The issue in the future isn't going to be not being able to take money with you when you die; I think it might be running out of it before you do. I'm gen X and I worry about money all the time
I really enjoyed this video, I wish I would have saw this video in my 20's. I believe my age group was the follow your passion age group ( graduated college in 2010). I actually lived in New York and pursued dance as a career. While I had some interesting experiences, I kind of wish I would have just went to law school lol, but I'm currently pursuing a career so I guess better late than never :)
You are not mentioning the most important factor between owning and buying a property. The Psychological factor. When you own the house, it is yours. No one can evict you, what ever your future financial situation. You will always have that piece of mind that the house is yours till death.
Everyone talking about owning property…. how many of us have money to own in NYC and carry on the lifestyle we want? Renting and focusing on other investments may be the right strategy rather than getting hung up on buying an 800k-1.4 mil condo 1 bedroom in NYC. Or being severely limited in what you can buy and the neighborhood you can buy it in. I think what’s important is to know who you are, your goals, values, and priorities. And make the investment decisions that are correct for you and your lifestyle.
I appreciate the honestly with not following your passion! You have to be the top 5% of so many artistic passions to make them work, sometimes there's compromise or other routes that involve both money and passion 🧡 lol as I wrote this you mention UX UI which is exactly what I did instead of art 🤣
#1. yup. you want job flexibility, hard to have if you own a home. When you're young you want to be geographically mobile. Maintenance, taxes, insurance are real and you have to account for that. You're not throwing money away on rent. That apartment brings utility.
New subbie :) i have to agree with the multiple streams of income. side hustles take away so much time from building your life, sleep, your health and rest. It's always best to find ways to maximize the income you can get from your main job.
U r a really smart young lady ... get into something that makes money... once you do that your Passion will grow.... Only thing I disagree with you on is real estate.... Too many ways being a homeowner can benefit you in life
The best thing I can add is don't put all your eggs in a "great" job. And regardless if you do..SAVE....SAVE... SAVE. Live below your means... INVEST, but invest wisely (see the current market + plus tons of other past examples). "Youth" is a great ADVANTAGE. I know a lot of you can't fathom your 40s and 50s but they can sneak up on you. You'll get your families and you'll look back and wish you would have invested some of your free time into other things that would have made your later life better. Regardless of what multiple streams mean to you, you have to sacrifice to have things in life (usually time and some things you purchased that will be gone later that your don't miss). Your sacrifice today WILL mean a lot for your future when you don't have the same energy and TIME.
I agree with the 3rd point a lot! I see a lot of people gaining an additional source of income by selling courses that are related to their main source of income. Imo many of these courses are not worth the money they cost and are effectively scams
I don’t think lifestyle inflation is what you’re describing. I understand it to mean purchasing things that you effectively hoard or use superficially to feel better about yourself. Like buying luxury branded things to show off but don’t bring you fulfillment - not things that are genuinely improving the quality of your life, like moving to a better neighborhood. I think so long as you hit your savings goal as a percentage of your total income, and your income increases, your savings and your spending could both increase and it wouldn’t necessarily be lifestyle inflation.
I don’t entirely agree with your last point regarding following one’s passion. The biggest issue with people following their passion is that they do so from a specialist context. We live in a world where being a “Jack Of All Trades” is better for financial security. Focusing on ONE thing will be a problem at some point. The issue comes down to people not doing the research into what the top earners are doing and focusing on building themselves in those ways. The key is learn the landscape, learn from those who are succeeding, and follow the path. This is how many in the music community are actually building prosperous careers in the music industry. The music industry is actually in need of great talent, it people need to be passionate and business smart and a lot of musicians aren’t business smart as they should be. As far as the art world, people would have to talk to top earners in that field to learn what they would need to do. It also comes down to understanding that “Follow Your Passion” assumes you only have one thing you are passionate about. People have a number of things they would love doing, don’t focus on one, learn how to earn from each, and then the one that works out best go with that, and let the other passions be hobbies or a second income if you want. My mentor once told me, “People tend to assume we should only do one thing, but many people have more than one talent, one or two can be sources of income and others can be hobbies, etc…but don’t limit yourself to just one thing”. I’m learning this as a musician and cyber student. I’d rather pursue both areas and build wealth in both ways than choose one over the other.
I think if the real estate is an investment property of you house hack it could be a good investment. Maybe even using the brrr method to scale but there is alottt of Risk getting all those mortgages
Real Estate only seems to be an investment when you're buying multi-family units to rent out or when you're flipping houses. The only reason I would buy a house is because I want a change in lifestyle, not because I want to get rich. As far as multiple side-hustles. I always believe that it makes far more sense for a person to pick up an in-demand skillset and switch jobs every few years, negotiating at least a 20 percent salary bump with each move. Unfortunately that strategy doesn't seem to satisfy the folks looking for a shortcut.
On that multiple sources of income... Well, I'll say, I know for sure that one stream of income can be really bad too. It doesn't have to be too much and you don't need to be actively involved in all. Maybe it depends on where you live though, anyone in Nigeria relying on just ONE, JUST ONE source of income ah... I laugh for the person 😂😂😂😂. Talking from experience.
Why wouldn't you save more money earlier in your life to minimize how much you have to work later in life? There's a basic math argument for spending absolutely as little as possible early in life to maximize the principal amount young in your life because that's much more valuable than late-life earnings I believe it's a lack of discipline in delaying gratification rather than some question of deeper values I could see her argument though, I'm not trying to say life is exclusively about money and work, just that our values are different You can also have a lot of fun more cheaply if you put your head to it, amazing how many profound days I've had simply staring at ripples in a stream, spending time with friends, or watching a great movie
The buying a place in NYC is a bit misleading. Of course it's going to cost a bunch if you want to live in a trendy bougie place in the city. But there are other places in the city that are great neighborhoods and less expensive and more possible to buy a place that costs less than renting.
Welcome Back! Hope you enjoyed this video :) let me know what you agreed with and which takes deserve tomatoes 😂
First
While watching, I was like: "Tell them, Bukola!!" 😂😂
Well said Bukola. Loved the last one. I hear “do what you love or follow your passion and the money will come” lie too often. As you said we live in a capitalist society with actual markets.
The thumbnail 😂 I had to pop my head down and zoom in well just to be sure you’re really not crying
Tell me you're a child of immigrant parents without telling me you're a child of immigrant parents.... consider not following your passion 😄!!!! I completely agree and am happy that now we're starting to have conversations about reconsidering your passion as being separate from your job / career
My daughters (ages 12 & 13) watch every one of her videos. That's the difference you have made down here in New Orleans - they want to be software engineers. Your parents raised a beautiful child ❤️
That is so beautiful ❤️
🥰
My boyfriend and I were literally discussing this earlier today. I'm Afro-Caribbean and when I was a teenager discussing my passions with my parents, the first thing out of their mouths was, "But that doesn't make any money." My siblings and I were constantly reminded that we needed to focus on getting the 💰.
We all had the same childhood 😂😂 immigrant parents applying pressure from birth 😂
@@demikpre ah you know the struggle 😅😅
as it should be. what the point of pursuing a career that hardly pays?
@@freshswagga100 To not spend half your life doing something you hate?
@@kevinsouza7744 just because your not working your passion doesn't mean you hate your job. That's the opposite extreme
If you are an immigrant I will highly discourage the so called “not so good majors” especially if you go to a regular college (non ivy or top 50). if you really look at those who often major in those, they come from money, are not aware or just don’t care much about earning a certain amount of money. As for immigrants we have no time to waste nor do we have that luxury. And the argument that “oh, you can major in anything and work in tech/ high paying job” may be true but it will be extremely hard to pivot, you will waste so much time trying to break in, if you even make it. Save yourself time and tears and major in something that can earn you big money, You will thank me later! Besos ❤️
Best comment!
where are yo from ? @Paty
@@NWAYSOS6904 I come from Paty land… joking 😂 but all jokes aside, please major in something that makes sense!
@@destinyadam1868 no one wants to tell people that we live on earth and life is getting more difficult by the day. We should strive to make our life more comfortable and enjoyable and that’s really hard, damn near impossible with empty pockets. Ask anyone that’s struggling financially and they will tell you.
@@helloworlddie you are speaking nothing but FACTS. This generation is just sugar coating everything and makes it seem like money doesn’t matter, just follow your passion and you’ll be fine. Unfortunately this isn’t the case for many. Especially immigrants kids that come with a whole lot of pressure and battles to fight.
On number 3, I remember being told at one point that soon we will come into a time where having a side hustle isn't a luxury but a necessity. I'm only high school but, I feel that popularizing this idea of having a side hustle or doing all these things to make money is more sad than motivating. Because what it truly means is that the average job does not allow one to live comfortably, and that's more of a failure on our world's end.
I totally agree that lifestyle inflation can be a great thing. I now pay a much higher amount for rent but I moved into a neighborhood that has the #1 public school in the city. So I do not have to pay for my daughter to go to private school. We have a roomier place. We’re also in a lively and enjoyable location. It’s one of the best decisions.
The renting vs owning is a no brainer. The money you pay for rent, you are NEVER seeing again. NEVER. At least with owning, you see most of that money again and even potentially MORE money than you spent.
Yea, I can’t agree with point #1. But if you’re young I don’t think there is a rush. Personally, I would be strategic when it comes to renting in expensive cities
This depends on the state you're in. In NYC, this is not a no brainer. A mortgage will cost way more than renting. Houses without renovation do not necessarily appreciate either. Property taxes also do not go away just because you own.
I agree so much with the argument that not all lifestyle inflation is bad!! I’ve been taking the bus everywhere for both years i’ve been in college so far and I’ve recently purchased a car and from the few days i’ve traveled to work by the car, the much higher cost of transport was sooo worth it to me. I can absolutely justify spending more money on transport if it means I save an hour of my time every day, don’t have to carry my heavy laptop the whole time and the part i’m looking forward to the most - i won’t have to wait for the bus in winter and freeze my bum off anymore. That was just to add to your already solid point🥳 i’m always supportive of spending more if it means something positive for your mental or physical wellbeing
I tried to follow my passion for years and now I’m back at school 😂. Mark Cuban said it best: follow your efforts not your passion
As a liberal arts grad, I'd add an addendum to that last point.
I'd say follow your passion but follow it smartly. When I was in university I was so focused on academia, I wasn't thinking about my long-term career goals.
I'd say do internships, see what your passion is actually like. Maybe you think you know what it would be like, but you don't actually know.
Ask people who have your dream job what other sources of support they have.
When I was in grad school, the people who usually did the best were people who had spouses they could rely on for income. That's not something you'd find in a college brochure.
Follow your passion, but make sure you have support cause it will be difficult. To my peers who got into lucrative fields to make money, most had at least one nervous breakdown or transitioned to a different field entirely.
Getting into Real Estate is trash in NY so I can see what you’re saying. But for my southern folk, get into it if you can. Great points in this video🔥🔥🔥
I used to think having multiple sources of income was the way to go, but at this point in my life I just want one job that can pay me enough to live comfortably, buy what I want, while only working 40hrs a week.
Truth
Agreed!
Make yourself valuable, improve your career and invest in index funds
You can't live your dream working just 40 hours a week
@Dion Brooks how do you know what their dream is?
I agree with all of your assessments Bukola, no tomatoes over here.
Focusing on doing one tech job well and investing in the stock market is more effective than having several side hustles, in my experience, and gives more time to actually enjoy your life. And I agree with your comments about following your passion: if you like art and creativity, do it as your hobby to unwind, and do something adjacent like UX design to pay the bills and save for early retirement. Lots more time to follow your passion if you're already financial independent.
Good advice, thanks for sharing your content with the world.
YESSS I used to be PLAGUED by the "follow your passion" work narrative. At some point in my 20s, I realized this wasn't an attainable strategy if I wanted any sort of quality of life, and am so glad I let myself pursue something I wasn't "passionate" about but that was way more financially secure. It's definitely a privilege to be able to seek that out in your work life, and we don't all have that luxury. Also, really appreciate you being real about the realities of pursuing side hustles/multiple "passive" income streams. If it's not truly passive, I'm not interested LOL
I’m happy that I purchased my home. I’m not really afraid of getting things fixed if need be because I have warranties. Plus I don’t want to wait on landlords or apartment maintenance. I love the freedom of doing what I want to my home as far as changes but I say do what makes more sense for you and makes you happy. Good video.
I think the issue is multiple streams of income when all your income stream are not passive
Yep exactly!
I have been thinking about how multiple side hustles are exhausting and you just confirmed my thoughts. It takes times to manage so many different projects. I am deffo planning to keep it at under 2.
This way I can still live a slower paced life and enjoy the present moments more, than working none stop. ✨
A friend of mine is a CPA and he says this all time. Focus is your greatest asset. I've been considering moving to Software to increase my income to the $200K+ range (Around $100K right now from Small Business) When you have one focus, you can optimize your time way better. You become wealthy with Focus.
The multiple side hustle myth comes from the internet course industrial complex.
I agree with not following your passion.
When I was 14 my boyfriend at the time would tell me his dreams of being a famous drummer one day. I remember telling him "yeah, but that career choice is impractical. There's only a small chance that you'll make money from it." Eventually we broke up. I grew up and forgot the logic I once had. I graduated high school with the intent to become a famous singer. It's been 7 years since then and I've released some songs/music videos, but made no money from them. Finally this year I realized I didn't follow my younger self's advice and I'm halfway through my twenties, broke af. I'm going back to school now for neuroscience. Having a path to a future that I know makes money has me feeling much more secure than when I was trying to make it as a singer. Now I just do singing as a hobby.
But studying only neuroscience is not that marketable as a career unless you're in the pre-med route, no?
Good Luck! Education is often a way up and/or out of bad decisions or situations. It was fortunate and smart that you had self-reflection and change your situations. You will succeed because you practice critical thinking. Bravo!
Honestly, I don’t agree with the advice, as a musician, there are a lot of spots right now for talented drummers, well musicians overall. The issue was the notion of being famous. Becoming a session musician is valid since they make a lot of money, the travel, but aren’t really famous. Don’t focus on the fame aspect focus on building a career and networking would have been better advice for him.
I disagree with the real estate point. I understand this video is from your perspective living in a city so it makes sense why you may think this way, but that is not indicative of real estate as a class of investments which is what you're implying in this video. It is a great investment, even in those high cost living areas because unlike renting when you pay down your mortgage you gain equity in the asset that is the property, no amount of paying rent will gain you equity so your apartment comparison in New Jersey is a moot point because you did not factor in any equity that you get. Owning will always be cheaper than renting in the long term because of the fact that you gain equity and real estate appreciates in value. Mortgages should be looked at as a " savings account" that you can live in because short of something bad happening the value of the land you own appreciates overtime and by extension the real estate on top of that land. There are tax advantages to real estate as well to include the 1031 exchange allowing you to sell an appreciated house without triggering a tax event. Not to mention that the property in itself can generate income by renting it out and having tenets pay for mortgage and associated fees. Doing that is literally making other people pay off an asset that you own
I think she has a narrow understanding of real estate investment
Thank you for this comment.
I agree, but I think she was trying to make the point that was echoed in points 2, 3, and 4 about enjoying your quality of life. Owning is more expensive than renting currently so if people buy a house, they'll be house poor and won't live the lifestyle the my want to for 5+ years. Yes, it will have *a lot* more equity than renting in the end, but it's not as viable as it was 20+ years ago (or even 3 years ago).
But I agree that "isn't a good investment" wasn't the right choice of words there.
I'd say she is right. She did say unpopular opinion so no surprise not all agree. Measure real estate "adjusted for inflation" historically it is not as high as you think. It may hold value well and be a good hedge against inflation longterm, yes. A professional investor may achieve serious economies of scale from running a large portfolio but for the regular investor with 1-5 properties (which is what we are talking about here) an investment in S&P 500 probably returns better on average historically with less stress but of course some ego loss from not "owning" something physical. Standard Rule of thumb if you live in a place for less than 5 years you should probably rent it.
yup!!!!!
I soo agree with you. My rule of thumb is mental health always comes first. Then find a job enough to pay your bills. Then start a side project something you are very passionate about. Then make sure you can relax, entertain yourself, enjoy life, Moderation is key.
I don’t agree with point #1. I still think that real estate is a great investment. But it should be a very thoughtful decision that includes lifestyle. Run the numbers to get an affordable mortgage (ask your agent for help, don’t use all of the money the bank approves you for).
I also waited until I wanted to sit still for a little to buy (as I have no desire to be a landlord at this time). I live in a condo. Not my forever home, but I’m building equity. Value has already gone up in two years.
I totally agree with you on the multiple streams of income. It can get distracting
I agree on lifestyle inflation. I save and invest, but I cap it at a certain dollar amount because I like being able to enjoy some of it and to be there for my family. If I saved everything and spent nothing I don't think I could face being in this same profession for 20+ more years.
We're not getting this time back, and some things are better to invest in before your 40s and 50s, like your health and relationships.
Excellent video! All your points are great although it does surprise me that renting is more cost effective than homeowning given the equity you build owning your own home. I'd also expect a landlord to charge the full mortgage cost plus extra to a tenant negating any difference between the tenant renting or owning the same property.
I wanted to major in CT scan but I realized I would have to work in x ray first with little money. So I switched my major to health informatics.
Hi Bukola, this was a great video! The point that I agreed with the most was # 4. I think sometimes when we’re young, we’re made believe that if we just do what we love, money will come and unfortunately that is not always the case. Thank you for talking about this :)
Can't agree more to every of these. Time, happiness, flexibility and predictable income are so much undervalued. Funny that here in NYC lots of musicians I previously knew were very actively performing at events, and *barely* making a living teaching kids instruments on the side, are now real estate agents 😆
Generational wealth and realestate is not focused on owning a personal home. It is more focused on owning buildings like complexes or multiple rental properties. Things that bring you money.
Good advice. My passion was playing football. The only problem was that I was a borderline athlete that needed extra time to get to the next level. Instead of sacrificing CS degree, I decided of be a full time student. I always have the what if’s when facing challenges in tech. My nephew in college now has decided to go all in on football and getting a Business Administration degree instead of STEM.
You are absolutely right but I’d say it’s also all dependent on where you’re looking. But I’ll say owning a home it’s definitely not a walk in the park
The fourth advice is good. Sometimes I struggle between passion (which I don’t even know or haven’t explored) or staying ur co-worker at Google for the stable paychecks. But there really shouldn’t be any struggle for me as I do need the money to support my parents and my siblings and having the “following ur passion” idea in my head just made me feel guilty as it seems that I’m not living my one and only life as I should. Let’s admit it, most of the people don’t have the privilege to pursue ur passion in this capitalism game.
What about my advice
Everything you say makes sense and I fully agree with all of the above. Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts on making money because many people are still misinformed about how money actually works. But things get more complicated when we talk about family people with children. The constant change of residence and school can be very stressful for them, and we have to be realistic about this. For those who never plan to have a family, well, this is just a dream life, but life definitely changes after having children, and owning a home becomes more of a necessity rather than a luxury. In general, I think that modern capitalism is definitely a great environment for single people and not very family friendly.
It also depends on the market you are buying in. I airbnd a property I purchased after I purchased a bigger one that generates me income as well as covers the mortgage on that property. I can see how it would be more difficult in NYC- I actually lived there for many years and had bought and sold a home there.
Bukola, you're wise beyond your age (like I know how old you are 😀). But seriously, all of your advise are spot on, especially the last one on following your passion - strategically if you must. Too many "gurus" led people down that path for their own quick gains in the capitalism system as you mentioned. Following one's passion sustainably takes time, effort and yes, money. So one needs some source of income to even support their passion.
I just subscribed, you're really good 👍🏿
“Before you throw your tomatoes!” 😂 was sold on this video after hearing you say that
This was real, practical money talk, y’all. Word to the wise
Yea I'm one of those went to school for graphic design and now do UX lol. Which I have no regrets on thankfully. I think for me, I knew that just going to art school was not going to be the highest paying career but I was strongly interested in pursuing it anyway. I guess that's that pAsSioN folks be talking about. But I was mad strategic about finding the job I wanted first and then lining up my studies to match; end up adding marketing as a minor...and then later web development as a second major 🥲it all worked out though but man it's kinda hard to have TOO many interests you want to pursue too.
I actually didn't disagree with any of your takes tbh though, you gotta play the game to win. The game is capitalism.
Love your content! Your content really helped me find myself as a new Tech RUclipsr that switched careers to the tech industry recently. I'll keep watching your future videos!
Thank you for another amazing video! couldn't agree more, specially with the side hustles, it can be very demanding and not really worth it.
I agree with all of your points. One that really hits hard for me is not following your passion. I really wanted to become an airline pilot when I was a teenager and even attended an aeronautical college for a couple of semesters after graduating high school. After realizing how much debt I'd be buried in, I decided to switch to mechanical engineering. After a long, winding road, I'm now enrolled in an SDE training program and about 3 months away from OJT. Looking back, it wouldn't have been smart to take on all of that debt, especially considering the current state of the airline industry, where a lot of pilots are overworked and underpaid. With an SDE salary, I'll probably be able to at least get my private pilot's license and fly in my free time.
My parents both grew up very poor, but were able to build wealth through real estate. With that being said, they ultimately did this in military cities that aren’t nearly as expensive as big cities. The market in those cities was also way different in the 80s than right now
Growing up in the suburbs, it’s not cool unless you love home improvement projects and mowing the lawn and raking leaves. I hated mowing and raking.
Such a great video, Bukola! I very much agree with most of your perspectives, especially the ones about side hustles and passions. I am Jamaican American and my parents talked me out of every creative career LOL (I wanted to be a dancer). I went to school and got a more practical degree, did internships, and now I make almost $70k. That doesn’t put me in the super duper high-earner category BUT I help my family and have almost $30k in retirement, about $21k in high-yield savings / personal investments, HEALTH INSURANCE 🤧🤧🤧, and I can afford to *consistently* take dance classes and pay team dues. But more importantly, I don’t feel like I’m digging myself out of a hole every month. I wouldn’t change a single thing! I hope all our black sisters and brothers realize that following your passion without any regard for practicality is not something WE can do unless we are the few of us who have generational wealth (aka a paid-off house to inherit and live in if ish hits the fan). Congratulations on everything you’ve accomplished, Bukola!! So happy to see it!! 🥰🥰🥰
I agree with everything with the exception of real estate. Most investors are not buying 1 mil+ homes unless they're commercial properties.
You are wise. Loved this perspective
About Renting is always cheaper than Buying. I don't agree 100%, it will cost more to acquire of course, but you can sell it after some years eventually for more than you bought (even if we take inflation into account) it can feel like you were renting for free during all those years, but when you renting, you pay that rent that money is gone forever.
I think financial rules for today's young people have changed so much compared to our parents generation (and that generation specifically) so it's good to revisit to see what is still true. I agree that buying real estate is not today as doable or valuable as in the past, especially when you review the growth in value in some metropolitan areas. However, I do think lifestyle creep is the thing that will result in the financial demise for young people. Previous generations didn't have the same reasons to spend money compared to today (e.g. Starbucks or any premium coffee places didn't really come to most cities until the 1990s; back then you didn't really buy pricey beverages like that on the go like you do today) and they certainly weren't spending the same amounts of money on things like entertainment, fast fashion wasn't what it is now, etc. The issue in the future isn't going to be not being able to take money with you when you die; I think it might be running out of it before you do. I'm gen X and I worry about money all the time
Everyone should def follow the money. You can do your passion on the side.
I really enjoyed this video, I wish I would have saw this video in my 20's. I believe my age group was the follow your passion age group
( graduated college in 2010). I actually lived in New York and pursued dance as a career. While I had some interesting experiences, I kind of wish I would have just went to law school lol, but I'm currently pursuing a career so I guess better late than never :)
You are not mentioning the most important factor between owning and buying a property. The Psychological factor. When you own the house, it is yours. No one can evict you, what ever your future financial situation. You will always have that piece of mind that the house is yours till death.
Omg! You' re so right! I quit computer engineering (cuz wasn t my 'pasion'), but I think I will return.
Everyone talking about owning property…. how many of us have money to own in NYC and carry on the lifestyle we want? Renting and focusing on other investments may be the right strategy rather than getting hung up on buying an 800k-1.4 mil condo 1 bedroom in NYC. Or being severely limited in what you can buy and the neighborhood you can buy it in.
I think what’s important is to know who you are, your goals, values, and priorities. And make the investment decisions that are correct for you and your lifestyle.
I appreciate the honestly with not following your passion! You have to be the top 5% of so many artistic passions to make them work, sometimes there's compromise or other routes that involve both money and passion 🧡
lol as I wrote this you mention UX UI which is exactly what I did instead of art 🤣
#1. yup. you want job flexibility, hard to have if you own a home. When you're young you want to be geographically mobile. Maintenance, taxes, insurance are real and you have to account for that. You're not throwing money away on rent. That apartment brings utility.
New subbie :) i have to agree with the multiple streams of income. side hustles take away so much time from building your life, sleep, your health and rest. It's always best to find ways to maximize the income you can get from your main job.
Appreciate your videos! ❤
Advice no 4 !!!! say it louder for people at the back - very useful vids x
U r a really smart young lady ... get into something that makes money... once you do that your Passion will grow.... Only thing I disagree with you on is real estate.... Too many ways being a homeowner can benefit you in life
The best thing I can add is don't put all your eggs in a "great" job. And regardless if you do..SAVE....SAVE... SAVE. Live below your means... INVEST, but invest wisely (see the current market + plus tons of other past examples). "Youth" is a great ADVANTAGE. I know a lot of you can't fathom your 40s and 50s but they can sneak up on you. You'll get your families and you'll look back and wish you would have invested some of your free time into other things that would have made your later life better. Regardless of what multiple streams mean to you, you have to sacrifice to have things in life (usually time and some things you purchased that will be gone later that your don't miss). Your sacrifice today WILL mean a lot for your future when you don't have the same energy and TIME.
Love the balanced, measured, and honest-big-sister delivery of this information!
Always looking forward to your vids Bukola°•♡ Was just about to go take out the trash but that could wait 10 minutes ^_^ ♡• lmao
Hi i really like your personal finance content!!!! Love the channel keep it up
Very interesting video- respect for talking about controversial money tips so openly.
I agree with the 3rd point a lot! I see a lot of people gaining an additional source of income by selling courses that are related to their main source of income. Imo many of these courses are not worth the money they cost and are effectively scams
Everything you said really makes sense- thanks for this!
Hard truths... Multiple sources = multiple stressors too. Master your craft and invest its profits.
New video!! Focus is key to growing a business good job calling out those 5 side hustle ppl😂
I don’t think lifestyle inflation is what you’re describing. I understand it to mean purchasing things that you effectively hoard or use superficially to feel better about yourself. Like buying luxury branded things to show off but don’t bring you fulfillment - not things that are genuinely improving the quality of your life, like moving to a better neighborhood. I think so long as you hit your savings goal as a percentage of your total income, and your income increases, your savings and your spending could both increase and it wouldn’t necessarily be lifestyle inflation.
EXACTLY 💯 a home 🏡 is considered a liability, it becomes an asset when it's SOLD!
I don’t entirely agree with your last point regarding following one’s passion. The biggest issue with people following their passion is that they do so from a specialist context. We live in a world where being a “Jack Of All Trades” is better for financial security. Focusing on ONE thing will be a problem at some point. The issue comes down to people not doing the research into what the top earners are doing and focusing on building themselves in those ways. The key is learn the landscape, learn from those who are succeeding, and follow the path. This is how many in the music community are actually building prosperous careers in the music industry. The music industry is actually in need of great talent, it people need to be passionate and business smart and a lot of musicians aren’t business smart as they should be. As far as the art world, people would have to talk to top earners in that field to learn what they would need to do. It also comes down to understanding that “Follow Your Passion” assumes you only have one thing you are passionate about. People have a number of things they would love doing, don’t focus on one, learn how to earn from each, and then the one that works out best go with that, and let the other passions be hobbies or a second income if you want. My mentor once told me, “People tend to assume we should only do one thing, but many people have more than one talent, one or two can be sources of income and others can be hobbies, etc…but don’t limit yourself to just one thing”. I’m learning this as a musician and cyber student. I’d rather pursue both areas and build wealth in both ways than choose one over the other.
If there is no market for your passion then the money will not follow.
These are so true! Agree with them all.
I think if the real estate is an investment property of you house hack it could be a good investment. Maybe even using the brrr method to scale but there is alottt of Risk getting all those mortgages
Real Estate only seems to be an investment when you're buying multi-family units to rent out or when you're flipping houses. The only reason I would buy a house is because I want a change in lifestyle, not because I want to get rich. As far as multiple side-hustles. I always believe that it makes far more sense for a person to pick up an in-demand skillset and switch jobs every few years, negotiating at least a 20 percent salary bump with each move. Unfortunately that strategy doesn't seem to satisfy the folks looking for a shortcut.
Giving such amazing advice thank you for this video 👍🏾👏🏾🤗
Thank you for your great content!
Money advice 4 needs to be a biblical quote on a stone tablet for High school graduates and University students.
Thank you great insight! Great info...
Great video, I appreciate the advice 🙂.
I really enjoyed this video
Right away, I agree with the first take....
FOLLOW THE MONEY ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
An Uber driver told me that real estate works when you can own 10+ properties and qualify for a property manager to manage on my behalf.
Completely agree with all of these points!
On that multiple sources of income... Well, I'll say, I know for sure that one stream of income can be really bad too. It doesn't have to be too much and you don't need to be actively involved in all.
Maybe it depends on where you live though, anyone in Nigeria relying on just ONE, JUST ONE source of income ah... I laugh for the person 😂😂😂😂. Talking from experience.
I completely agree with every point!
A great and informative video!
I always think real estate/house is a liability. But owning a land is different story, definitely an investment, especially in great location.
Why wouldn't you save more money earlier in your life to minimize how much you have to work later in life? There's a basic math argument for spending absolutely as little as possible early in life to maximize the principal amount young in your life because that's much more valuable than late-life earnings
I believe it's a lack of discipline in delaying gratification rather than some question of deeper values
I could see her argument though, I'm not trying to say life is exclusively about money and work, just that our values are different
You can also have a lot of fun more cheaply if you put your head to it, amazing how many profound days I've had simply staring at ripples in a stream, spending time with friends, or watching a great movie
Keep your head straight
The buying a place in NYC is a bit misleading. Of course it's going to cost a bunch if you want to live in a trendy bougie place in the city. But there are other places in the city that are great neighborhoods and less expensive and more possible to buy a place that costs less than renting.
100000000% agree with all of this!!!
'It also had windows' 😂
agree with all 4 100%
Solid advice 👍
I love the video thumbnail LOL
100 percent agree with everything
Shout out to the thumb nail 😂