Settling for Less: The Reality of Life and Our Financial Desires
Life is full of dreams and desires. We all want something better, a bigger house, quality education, smarter investments, a vacation abroad, or simply the freedom to enjoy life without worrying about money. But the truth is, life doesn’t always give us everything we want, especially not at once. This is why many of us end up settling for what we can afford, not because we don't know or want what’s best, but because reality places limits on our choices.
Sometimes, it’s easy to judge people and say they don’t have high standards or that they aren’t pushing hard enough. But behind that choice to settle is often a quiet financial decision. Take education, for example. Most parents want their children to attend top schools, learn in the best environment, and have access to every opportunity. But not every family can afford the fees, the books, the uniforms, and all that comes with it. So they settle for a school that fits their pocket, not because they don’t care, but because they are working within what is available.
It’s the same with investment. Everyone hears about profitable businesses, real estate opportunities, or stocks that could grow their wealth. But many still choose small savings plans or slow, low-risk ventures. Why? Not because they are ignorant or afraid of success, but because the capital needed for bigger investments is simply out of reach. It is safer to invest N5,000 monthly in a savings plan than to risk N500,000 they don’t have on a business that may fail.
Even in the area of enjoyment, yes, fun and relaxation, we all know what the good life looks like. A trip to the beach resort, a nice dinner in a fancy restaurant, or even a well-deserved break abroad. But when the bills pile up, and the rent or school fees are due, enjoyment suddenly looks like “wasteful spending.” People say things like “It’s too extravagant” or “We can’t afford that right now.” Not because they don’t love good things, but because they are trying to be responsible with the little they have.
Most of us don’t settle because we want less. We settle because we are working with what is within our power. We understand what’s best, but we’ve also learned to manage expectations and survive while still hoping for better. It’s easy to talk about “living your best life,” but harder when you’re balancing purpose with financial limits.
So yes, we may settle, but that doesn’t mean we’ve given up. It simply means we are choosing to enjoy what we have while still reaching for more. Life may not always give us what we want, but with patience, hard work, and the right mindset, we can still find joy in the journey. And that in itself is a kind of wealth.