What I Spent This Week as a Research Technician Making £33k

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 (after tax): £2,247‍

Household Income (if shared): £62,000‍

Do you share expenses with someone? Yes, my husband‍

Fixed Monthly Costs (your share only):‍

Rent / Mortgage: £550
Bills, Subscriptions & Utilities: £216
Transport: £25–70
Groceries & Essentials: £190
Investment Contributions: £100‍

Amount left each month after essentials (to spend, save or invest): £1,200‍

Dependents: None

Money Mindset & Financial Journey

‍Growing up, did your parents or guardians educate you around money?‍

My mum always told me it was important to save for any emergencies, so I have always saved. However, I wasn’t taught how to make my money grow or how to prevent it from losing value.‍

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

When I was in my second year at university, I got a summer job at an amusement park. I don't remember how I found out about it, but I remember going to drop off my application at the park's offices. Now that process seems quite old-fashioned. At the time, I was just looking to earn some extra money for myself.‍

Did you worry about money growing up?‍

Yes, when I was 7 years old, my father lost his job and was unable to find another one that paid more than the minimum wage. Fortunately, my mother had a job that helped cover most of the family expenses, so our lives did not change much, but seeing my father struggle and hearing his concerns made me feel anxious about money.

At what age did you become financially responsible for yourself and do you have a financial safety net?‍

By the age of 23, during my final year of university, I began covering my own expenses with a part-time job. As I was still living with my parents at the time, I didn't have to pay rent. This enabled me to save money, which I used for travelling and to pursue my dream of doing a master's degree abroad. I became fully independent when I moved to the UK at the age of 27 to start my master's.‍

Do you worry about money now?‍

Yes, my temporary contract is about to expire, and I am going to move to a permanent job with a lower salary while I obtain a new visa. I am sure that I will be able to continue covering my usual expenses without problems, but I would like to visit my country more often to see my family, and that requires having more money available to save.‍

What is your biggest money regret?‍

Keeping my savings in a bank account without gaining any interest and thinking that was the safest option.‍

What financial goals are you working towards?‍

Stop losing money, build up my emergency fund and gain more confidence in investing by learning more about finances.‍

Who is your financial role model (if any), and why?‍

I don't have a specific one yet. I guess any woman that thrives in the financial world while sticking to her values would be a model to follow for me.

‍Reflections on My Spending

‍I think my current lifestyle allows me to stick to my budget quite well, unless there's a special occasion. At home, we cook most of our meals, and I exercise both at home and in the free classes offered at work. I also prefer to buy things second-hand rather than new.

Besides, I live in a city where it’s easy to get anywhere by walking, cycling, or bus. Last month, I started cycling, which has not only reduced my transport expenses but also boosted my well-being; it was a great investment!

I feel like I could treat myself more; sometimes, I still have that feeling that I shouldn't spend on certain things. But ultimately, having a budget should help me feel confident about my finances and free to enjoy life more.

What I Spent in a Week

‍

Monday £0
No-spend day: worked from home, ate at home, and didn't shop online.

‍

Tuesday £0

No-spend day: worked from home, ate at home, and didn't shop online.
‍

Wednesday £208.50
Bus ticket: £6.00
Bike lock and lights: £22.50
Credit card payment: £180.00

‍

Thursday £2.90
Snack: £2.90

‍

Friday £29.00
2nd-hand pannier bag for bike: £14.00
Weekly counselling: £15.00

‍

Saturday £10.00
Donation: £10.00

‍

Sunday £10.50
Coffee and cake: £7.90
Half pint: £2.60

Weekly Total: £260.90