What I Spent This Week as Head of Communications Making £51k

Ever wondered how others really manage their money?

In the A Week in My Wallet series, we share it all, because talking about money shouldn't be off-limits.

Every week, an anonymous member shares a week of their spending: no names, no filters, just honest stories about life's everyday financial choices.

Ready to join the conversation and help make money talk less taboo? Share your own story via our form here.

Monthly take-home pay: £2,900‍

Household income: N/A‍

Dependents: None‍

Fixed monthly costs (your share only):

• Rent: £840 (my half with a housemate)
• Utilities and household essentials: £220
• Therapy: £200
• Groceries and pet costs: £215 (I eat most meals at work)‍

Amount left each month after essentials: ~£800 for savings/investments (paid first) and ~£630 for wants (eating out, subscriptions, shopping)

My relationship with money

Did your parents or guardians educate you around money?‍

My parents did not educate me much about money, except to encourage us to stay out of debt and be frugal.

What was your first job – and why did you get it?‍

I worked part-time in my father’s small business from the age of 14 all through high school.

Did you worry about money growing up?‍

I grew up in the USA in a large family with one income (my father’s). We weren’t well-off, but it was a stable and frugal household. I’m grateful that money wasn’t a source of anxiety, though I wish I’d learned more about finances.

At what age did you become financially responsible for yourself?‍

At around 14 or 15 I had to pay for clothes and outings with friends. In college I was responsible for nearly all expenses, though my parents let me use a family car (I just paid petrol and upkeep) and kept paying my mobile phone until I was 21.

Do you worry about money now?‍

Not anymore, but it’s recent. I spent years worrying because of a financially precarious relationship with an unemployed and irresponsible partner. When I left, I had £0 savings and had to make tough choices – getting a housemate, cutting back – before rebuilding my finances.

What is your biggest money regret?‍

Waiting until 30 to start saving and investing. Had I started at 14 when I first earned money, things would look different.

I also regret sharing finances with my ex – I disengaged because he wouldn’t participate. Now I strongly advocate for separate finances in relationships.

What financial goals are you working towards?‍

I just reached my first goal: a three-month emergency fund. Next I’m building a fun/vacation fund, planning medium-term savings and investments, and checking pension contributions.

Who is your financial role model?‍

A colleague – also an expat and divorcée, but a single parent too. She has savings, real estate, investments, and a joyful “rich life.” She inspires me to pursue independence and financial freedom.

Reflections on my spending

‍I’ve tracked my spending daily for six months, cutting wherever possible. Eating meals at work helps reduce costs, and I prioritise meaningful experiences like art days, concerts, nights with friends, and a cheap walking holiday. Groceries still surprise me with how fast they add up, even though I only shop for myself a few days a week.

I’m still rebuilding, but proud of my progress.

What I spent in a week

Day 1 – Monday: £91.92
• Tate Modern Gift Shop (postcards): £5.00
• Ramen in Covent Garden with a friend: £17.89
• Annual Membership Fee (professional association): £52.00
• Sostrene Grene (hairclip): £3.78
• London Underground: £8.50
• Renter’s Insurance: £4.75

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Day 2 – Tuesday: £34.50
• Eurostar (adjusted travel dates): £10.00
• Concert ticket: £24.50

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Day 3 – Wednesday: £37.69
• Groceries: £37.69

Day 4 – Thursday: £46.68
• Apple bill (extra storage): £8.99
• Groceries: £16.78
• GoFundMe donation: £18.83
• Broadband (my half): £12.00

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Day 5 – Friday: £13.49
• Tesco (sale bin produce): £1.54
• Coffee with a friend: £3.35
• Crisps and drink for movie night: £8.60

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Day 6 – Saturday: £171.80
• Groceries: £6.80
• Refill shop (soaps, dried goods, etc.): £21.08
• My share of holiday letting: £144.00

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Day 7 – Sunday: £0
• No spending

Weekly total: £396.08

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