Woman earning ₹30 LPA lives ‘paycheck to paycheck,’ sparking debate on lifestyle

By Admin

15 Apr, 2025

In a world where financial success is often measured by income brackets, a recent social media revelation has stirred up a serious conversation about lifestyle choices, saving habits, and the concept of living paycheck to paycheck—regardless of how big the paycheck actually is.

The Viral Revelation

Narayani Gurunathan, a recruitment specialist, recently shared a striking post on X (formerly Twitter) that took the internet by storm. She revealed that her friend’s daughter, who earns an impressive ₹24 to ₹30 lakh per annum, still finds herself unable to save any money by the end of each month.

“My friend’s daughter who is earning 24–30L per annum, lives paycheck to paycheck,” Gurunathan wrote, triggering a flurry of reactions and heated debates online.

Where Does the Money Go?

Many were quick to question how such a high salary could disappear so quickly. Gurunathan explained that it’s a classic case of lifestyle inflation, where one’s spending habits grow alongside their income. While it may seem unimaginable for someone in their mid-20s to burn through such a salary, the reality is that the cost of living—especially in metros—combined with personal lifestyle choices, can quickly drain even a high income.

“At 25 or 30, it’s hard to imagine spending that much. Very hard,” she noted.

She listed out a few culprits behind the disappearing income:

• Skyrocketing urban rents
  
  

• Frequent travel and foreign vacations
  
  

• Regular outings, dining at fancy restaurants
  
  

• Alcohol and nightlife
  
  

• Gadgets and branded clothes
  
  

• EMIs on luxury cars
  
  

Need vs. Want

This viral case brings into focus the blurred line between necessities and luxuries. Gurunathan rightly pointed out that most of these expenses aren’t strictly necessary. “No savings. Foreign trips become status symbols, more about competing with Instagram posts than personal priorities,” she wrote.

It’s not uncommon for young professionals to feel pressure to “live their best life” in an age dominated by social media aesthetics. But this comes with a cost—future financial stability. Many users echoed similar concerns, emphasizing the importance of financial planning and delayed gratification.

A Wake-Up Call for Many

This real-life example serves as a wake-up call for young earners. Earning a high salary is no guarantee of wealth if spending habits remain unchecked. The incident also highlights the need for basic financial literacy, smart budgeting, and an honest reassessment of what really matters.

In an age where curated Instagram lifestyles often overshadow financial security, perhaps it's time to rethink how we define success—and whether living in the moment should come at the expense of the future.