You know, I was never a huge fan of the television show Good Times, but as the years pile up and the daily grind becomes more, well, mundane, and dreams fade like distant echoes with responsibilities piling up, I find myself humming that theme song more and more.

“Keepin’ your head above water, Making a wave when you can. Temporary layoffs. Easy credit rip-offs. Scratchin’ and surviving. Good Times.”

On my less-than-cheerful days, I find myself humming this tune, the lyrics sinking deep into my core. It encapsulates the struggle we all feel at times. Yet, most days, I pause to acknowledge the blessings—having a roof over my head and the means to pay the bills. It’s a delicate dance between the Mary Poppins moments and the stark reality of adulting.

Did you know that, on average, Americans work approximately 34.4 hours per week? Despite this effort, achieving financial freedom remains a challenge for many. The concept of a “livable wage” varies across the nation, but according to the New York Post, recent statistics estimate that a single adult needs an annual income of around $57,200 to cover basic living expenses. However, that really isn’t enough once you count in children, and the rent and mortgage inflation.

While I’m grateful for the present, I refuse to relinquish my dreams of financial freedom. I deserve more than a life of merely “scratchin’ and surviving,” of juggling two jobs to make ends meet. So, I’ve decided to channel my thoughts and send positive vibes into the universe. Writing is my passion, and I aspire to turn it into a career—a means to transcend the daily grind and embrace the possibility of a future filled with abundance. Feel free to share, read, and join me on this journey. Together, let’s create our own version of “Good Times.”