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15 Things Broke People Do Every December That Millionaires Totally Avoid
Welcome to Daily Reality NG, where we break down real-life issues with honesty and clarity.
December is here again, and if you're like most Nigerians, you're probably feeling that familiar pressure. The pressure to spend, to impress, to keep up with everyone else's December vibes. But here's what nobody tells you: the way you handle your money this December will determine whether you start 2026 broke or building wealth. Let me be honest with you—there's a reason some people enter January strong while others are already borrowing money by January 5th.
I'm Samson Ese, founder of Daily Reality NG. I've been blogging and building online businesses in Nigeria since 2016, helped over 4,000 readers start making money online, and my sites currently serve 800,000+ monthly visitors across Africa. I've watched December destroy people's finances year after year, and I've also seen how millionaires navigate this season completely differently. The patterns are clear, and I'm here to show you exactly what separates those who end the year broke from those who end it building wealth.
The December That Changed Everything for Chidi
Let me tell you about my friend Chidi. December 2022, he was earning ₦450,000 monthly from his tech job in Lekki. Good money, right? By all accounts, Chidi was doing well. He had a nice apartment, drove a decent car, and people looked up to him.
But then December came. And like many Nigerians, Chidi felt this overwhelming pressure to "show" that he had arrived. His village people were expecting him. His friends were posting their detty December plans on Instagram. His girlfriend was dropping hints about Christmas gifts. The pressure was real.
So Chidi did what broke people do every December—he started spending like there was no January. He bought a new designer outfit for ₦180,000 because "it's December now." He took his friends to a club in Victoria Island and spent ₦250,000 on one night because he wanted to "flex." He sent money to every family member who called, even the ones he barely spoke to all year. He bought Christmas gifts he couldn't afford to impress people who didn't even care.
By December 28th, Chidi's salary was gone. Not just gone—he was in debt. He had borrowed ₦150,000 from two different loan apps at ridiculous interest rates. His January rent was due in three days, and he had exactly ₦35,000 in his account.
Fast forward to December 2024. I ran into Chidi at a coffee shop in Ikeja. We got talking, and he told me something that stuck with me: "Guy, I learned the hard way that December spending is a poverty trap. All those people I was trying to impress in December 2022? They weren't there for me in January 2023 when I was broke and stressed. Now I handle December differently."
The truth is, many Nigerians know this struggle. Every December, we see the same pattern repeat: people spend money they don't have to impress people who don't care, then suffer in silence throughout January and February. Meanwhile, the people who actually build wealth? They're doing December completely differently.
If we talk am well, the difference between ending December broke and ending December building wealth comes down to 15 specific behaviors. And I'm going to show you every single one.
Want to know the truth? The difference between broke people and millionaires isn't just how much money they make—it's what they do with it, especially during December. While one group is busy "showing" everyone that they've arrived, the other group is quietly positioning themselves for massive wins in the new year.
Here's what nobody tells you: December is either a wealth-building opportunity or a financial graveyard. There's no middle ground. The habits you form this December will either launch you into your best year yet or keep you trapped in the same broke cycle you've been in.
Let's break down exactly what broke people do every December that keeps them broke—and what millionaires do instead that keeps them winning.
💸 1. Spending Money to Impress People Who Don't Care
This is the number one wealth killer in December. Broke people spend money they don't have to impress people who aren't even paying attention. They buy expensive clothes for one-time events, rent cars for Instagram photos, book expensive hotel rooms just for content, and fund lifestyles they can't sustain.
Real Talk: The Victoria Island Club Scene
I know a guy—let's call him Tope—who works in Yaba and earns ₦280,000 monthly. Every December, Tope transforms into "Big Tope." He shows up at clubs in Victoria Island, buying bottles of champagne he can't afford, tipping big to impress people he barely knows, posting Instagram stories with the caption "December vibes ✨"
In one December, Tope spent over ₦400,000 trying to maintain this image. That's more than his monthly salary. How? Loan apps, borrowed money from friends, and his entire Christmas bonus. By January, "Big Tope" was back to being "Broke Tope," avoiding calls from lenders and eating garri for dinner.
Meanwhile, his colleague Amaka—who earns the same salary—spent December differently. She went out once or twice for budget-friendly celebrations with close friends. She dressed nicely but didn't break the bank. She enjoyed December without trying to prove anything to anyone. By January, while Tope was stressed about debt, Amaka had ₦150,000 saved and was starting a side business.
What Millionaires Do Instead:
Wealthy people don't spend money to impress strangers. They spend strategically on things that bring actual value—quality time with family, meaningful experiences, investments that will pay off. If a millionaire buys something expensive in December, it's because they genuinely want it and can comfortably afford it, not because they're trying to prove something on social media.
Many Nigerians know this struggle. The pressure to "show" in December is real. But here's the harsh reality: the people you're trying to impress aren't paying your bills in January. Your landlord doesn't care about your December flex. NEPA doesn't give you free electricity because your Instagram was popping in December.
🚨 2. Taking Debt Just to "Flex" in December
This one is deadly, and it's becoming more common every year. With the rise of loan apps in Nigeria, it's now easier than ever to borrow money you can't pay back. And broke people are taking full advantage—in the worst possible way.
They download Carbon, Palmcredit, FairMoney, and five other loan apps. They borrow ₦50,000 here, ₦100,000 there, all to fund a December they can't afford. The thinking is: "I'll pay back in January when I collect salary." But January comes with its own expenses—rent, school fees for those with kids, increased transport costs, New Year resolutions that need funding.
The Loan App Trap
A recent report by Vanguard Newspaper revealed that Nigerians borrowed over ₦2.5 trillion through digital loan platforms in 2024. A huge chunk of this borrowing happens in December.
But here's what they don't tell you in the ads: these loans come with interest rates between 15 percent to 30 percent per month. If you borrow ₦100,000 in December at 20 percent monthly interest and can't pay in January, by March you owe ₦172,800. That's 72 percent more than you borrowed—just to flex for three weeks.
What Millionaires Do Instead:
Wealthy people never borrow money for consumption—only for investment. If a millionaire takes a loan, it's to buy an asset that will generate more money than the loan costs. They never, ever borrow money to fund a lifestyle they can't sustain.
The truth is, if you need to borrow money to enjoy December, you can't afford that version of December. And that's okay. There's nothing wrong with having a quiet, budget-friendly December. What's wrong is borrowing yourself into a hole you'll spend all of 2026 trying to climb out of.
📊 3. Entering December Without a Clear Budget
If we talk am well, most broke people have no idea where their money goes in December. They just spend, spend, spend until the money finishes. Then they look at their bank account on December 29th and wonder: "Where did all my money go?"
No budget. No plan. No spending limits. Just vibes and emotional spending. This is financial suicide, especially in a month as expensive as December.
Real Example from Lagos
My neighbor Ada earns ₦320,000 monthly. In December, she collected her salary plus a ₦150,000 Christmas bonus—₦470,000 total. She had no budget, just a vague idea that she wanted to "enjoy" December.
December 5: Sent ₦50,000 to family without planning → Balance: ₦420,000 December 10: Bought new clothes and shoes → ₦85,000 spent → Balance: ₦335,000 December 15: Went to club with friends → ₦45,000 spent → Balance: ₦290,000 December 18: Contributed to office Christmas party → ₦25,000 → Balance: ₦265,000 December 22: Traveled home for Christmas → Transport ₦35,000 → Balance: ₦230,000 December 24-26: Christmas gifts, food, church offering → ₦120,000 → Balance: ₦110,000 December 28: Realized rent (₦180,000) is due in 3 days → Panic mode
Ada spent ₦360,000 in less than a month without even realizing it. Why? No budget. No tracking. No plan.
What Millionaires Do Instead:
Successful people plan their December spending in November. They create a detailed budget: gifts (₦X), travel (₦X), entertainment (₦X), family support (₦X), savings (₦X). They know exactly how much they can spend and stick to it. When the budget for entertainment is exhausted, they stop entertaining—simple.
🎭 4. Temporary Lifestyle Inflation (Acting Rich for One Month)
This is when people who live in a one-bedroom apartment in Surulere suddenly start posting from hotels in Ikoyi. People who usually take molue to work suddenly uber everywhere in December. The waiter who never orders expensive meals suddenly wants to order the most expensive items on the menu.
It's lifestyle inflation—temporarily living above your means to create an illusion of wealth. The problem? It's expensive, unsustainable, and leaves you broke when reality hits in January.
✈️ 5. Unnecessary and Expensive Travel
Travel is great. Seeing new places, creating memories—that's valuable. But broke people often travel in December for the wrong reasons: to post on Instagram, to "prove" they can afford it, to keep up with friends.
They book trips they can't afford to places they don't even want to go, just for content. Meanwhile, millionaires travel strategically—when it makes sense, when they can afford it comfortably, and when it aligns with their goals.
🛍️ 6-10. More Broke Behaviors in December
6. Impulse Buying Without Thinking
Seeing something on sale and buying it immediately without asking: "Do I need this? Can I afford this? Will I use this?" Black Friday and Jumia deals trap many Nigerians into buying things they don't need with money they don't have.
7. Giving Money Without Boundaries
Saying yes to every family member, friend, or acquaintance who asks for money in December. Not because you want to help, but because you're afraid of being seen as "stingy" or "proud." This is how people end up broke—prioritizing other people's opinions over their own financial security.
8. Neglecting Bills and Savings
Spending your December salary on enjoyment while forgetting that January rent, electricity bills, and school fees are coming. Broke people prioritize short-term pleasure over long-term stability.
9. Competing with Social Media
Trying to match the lifestyle you see on Instagram and Twitter. Forgetting that social media only shows highlights, not reality. Many of those people posting luxury December content are also broke—they're just better at hiding it.
10. Zero Planning for January
Entering January with no savings, no emergency fund, no plan for how to survive until the next salary. This is perhaps the most dangerous behavior because it sets you up for a stressed, broke start to the new year.
I used to think...
I used to think that December was just a time to "relax and enjoy" without worrying about money. That January would sort itself out. That I deserved to spend freely after working hard all year.
Until December 2017, when I ended the month with ₦18,000 in my account, owing ₦200,000 in total, with rent due in 10 days. That was the December that taught me: your December choices create your January reality.
💎 11-15. What Millionaires Do in December (That Keep Them Winning)
Now that we've covered what broke people do, let me show you what successful, wealth-building people do differently every December. These are the habits that separate those who end the year strong from those who end it broke.
11. They Create a December Budget in November
Before December even arrives, millionaires already know exactly how much they'll spend and on what. They allocate specific amounts for gifts (₦X), family support (₦X), travel (₦X), and entertainment (₦X). Most importantly, they set aside money for January expenses and savings FIRST—before spending anything on enjoyment.
Real Example: How a Millionaire Plans December
I interviewed a successful Nigerian entrepreneur (net worth over $500,000) about his December approach. Here's what he told me:
"Every November, I sit down and plan my December. Let's say I'll earn ₦5 million in December. First, I move ₦2 million to savings and investments—this is untouchable. Then ₦1.5 million goes to January bills (rent, staff salaries, business expenses). That leaves ₦1.5 million for December enjoyment.
"From that ₦1.5 million: ₦500,000 for family gifts and support, ₦300,000 for personal gifts, ₦400,000 for travel, ₦200,000 for entertainment, ₦100,000 buffer for emergencies. When each category finishes, I stop spending in that area. No loan apps. No borrowing. No stress in January."
12. They Invest Bonus Money Instead of Spending It All
When broke people get a December bonus or 13th month salary, they see it as "extra money" to spend. When wealthy people get a bonus, they see it as "investment capital" to grow.
A typical broke person with a ₦200,000 bonus: Spends ₦180,000 in December, saves ₦20,000.
A wealth-building person with a ₦200,000 bonus: Invests ₦150,000 (stocks, business, real estate), saves ₦30,000 for emergencies, enjoys ₦20,000.
Same bonus. Completely different outcomes. One ends December broke. The other ends December richer than they started.
13. They Say "No" Without Guilt
Millionaires understand that saying "no" to requests that don't align with their budget isn't wickedness—it's wisdom. They don't give money to prove they're generous. They give strategically, to people and causes that genuinely need help, and within their means.
When someone asks for money they can't afford to give, they simply say: "I'm sorry, I can't help with that right now. My December budget is fully allocated." No long explanations. No guilt. No borrowing to give.
14. They Use December to Plan and Position for the New Year
While broke people are busy flexing in December, wealthy people are busy planning. They're setting goals for the new year, researching investment opportunities, building new income streams, networking with the right people.
December isn't just about enjoyment for them—it's about positioning. They enter January with a clear plan, specific goals, and momentum already building. This is why they consistently win while others consistently struggle.
What Successful Nigerians Do in December:
- Review their financial performance for the year
- Set clear, measurable goals for the new year
- Research and identify new business or investment opportunities
- Network with other successful people (not to flex, but to learn and collaborate)
- Read books and consume content that will help them grow
- Spend quality time with family—actual quality time, not just expensive outings for Instagram
- Rest and recharge mentally for the battles ahead
15. They Track Every Naira They Spend
Successful people don't just create budgets—they track their spending religiously. They use apps, spreadsheets, or even simple notebooks to record every expense. This awareness prevents the "where did my money go?" syndrome that hits broke people every January.
If we talk am well, you can't manage what you don't measure. Millionaires know exactly where their money goes because they track it. Broke people have no idea where their money goes because they don't track anything.
🎯 Key Takeaways
- Your December spending habits directly determine your January financial reality—there's no escape from this truth
- Broke people spend to impress others; millionaires invest to build wealth—the difference is in the mindset and priorities
- Taking debt for December enjoyment is financial suicide—the stress in January isn't worth the temporary December flex
- Creating a December budget in November is non-negotiable if you want to end the year financially strong
- Saying "no" to requests that don't fit your budget is wisdom, not wickedness—protect your financial peace
- December bonuses and 13th-month salaries should be invested, not just spent—this is how you build lasting wealth
- Social media is a highlight reel, not reality—don't destroy your finances trying to compete with illusions
- The people you're trying to impress in December won't pay your bills in January—focus on your own financial security first
- Wealthy people use December to position for the new year while broke people just party—choose wisely
- Small, consistent financial discipline in December creates massive advantages in the new year
🔧 How to Break the Broke December Cycle (Practical Steps)
Knowing what not to do is important, but knowing what TO do is even more critical. Here's your practical action plan for handling December like a wealth-builder, not like someone who will be broke in January.
Step 1: Create Your December Budget Today (Not Tomorrow)
Sit down right now and list every expense you'll have this December. Be realistic, not optimistic. Include everything: gifts, travel, food, family support, entertainment, church offerings, December dates, clothing, grooming—everything.
Sample December Budget Template:
Income: Salary + Bonus + Side Income = Total Available
Fixed Expenses (Pay These FIRST):
- January rent (set aside now): ₦___
- Savings goal: ₦___
- Investment contribution: ₦___
- January buffer fund: ₦___
December Spending (What's Left After Fixed Expenses):
- Family gifts and support: ₦___
- Personal gifts: ₦___
- Travel/transport: ₦___
- Food and groceries: ₦___
- Entertainment: ₦___
- Clothing: ₦___
- Emergency buffer: ₦___
Step 2: Delete All Loan Apps from Your Phone
Seriously. Delete them. If you can't afford something in December without borrowing, you can't afford it—period. The temporary pleasure isn't worth the January stress and debt cycle.
Step 3: Learn to Say "I Can't Afford That Right Now"
Practice this phrase: "I'd love to help, but it's not in my budget right now." Say it to friends. Say it to family. Say it to yourself when temptation strikes. No long explanations needed. Your financial peace is more important than anyone's opinion.
Step 4: Unfollow Accounts That Make You Feel Inadequate
If seeing someone's December content makes you feel like you need to spend money to compete, unfollow them. Protect your mental space and your financial discipline. Comparison is a wealth killer.
Step 5: Track Every Single Expense
Use a simple notebook, your phone's notes app, or a budgeting app like Mint or Wallet. Record every ₦100 you spend. At the end of each week, review your spending. This awareness alone will cut your unnecessary expenses by at least 30 percent.
Step 6: Automate Your Savings
Set up automatic transfers to your savings account on the day you receive your salary. If your salary comes on the 25th, set an automatic transfer of your savings amount for the 26th. This way, you save before you have a chance to spend.
Step 7: Plan a Budget-Friendly December That You'll Actually Enjoy
December doesn't have to be expensive to be enjoyable. Here are real, budget-friendly ways to enjoy December:
- Have a movie marathon at home with friends instead of expensive cinema dates
- Cook and host instead of eating out at expensive restaurants
- Plan local day trips instead of expensive travel
- Do DIY gifts for close friends and family (they're often more meaningful anyway)
- Attend free events and concerts instead of paying for every entertainment
- Have a beach/park picnic instead of club outings
- Do a gift exchange with friends (everyone buys one gift within a budget)
The Reality Check:
If you follow these steps, you won't have the most "flashy" December on Instagram. You might not have as many club videos to post. Your December might look "boring" compared to others.
But in January, when everyone else is broke, stressed, and dodging calls from loan apps, you'll be sitting comfortably with money in your account, no debt, and peace of mind. You'll be able to start the new year investing in yourself instead of paying off December's mistakes.
The question is: Would you rather have a December that looks good on Instagram or a January that feels good in real life?
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is it wrong to enjoy December and buy gifts?
Not at all! December is a time for celebration and giving. The problem isn't enjoying December—it's spending money you don't have, going into debt, or prioritizing showing off over your financial security. You can absolutely enjoy December within your means. Buy gifts you can afford. Go out with friends on a budget. Travel if it fits your finances. Just don't destroy your financial future for one month of temporary enjoyment.
How do I tell family members I can't give them money this December?
Be honest and firm: I'm working on my financial goals this year, so my December budget is very tight. I can't help financially right now, but I'm here for you in other ways. Don't over-explain or apologize. Your financial stability is not selfish—it's necessary. True family will understand. Those who don't understand aren't your responsibility to please.
What if I already took a December loan? What should I do?
First, stop taking more loans. Second, create a realistic repayment plan for January and February. Cut all unnecessary expenses in January to focus on paying back the debt. Third, learn from this and commit to never borrowing for consumption again. It's not too late to change the pattern—start with this lesson and build from here.
How much of my December salary should I save?
Ideally, save at least 20 percent to 30 percent of your December income before spending anything. If you get a bonus, save or invest at least 70 percent of it. Remember: your December bonus is not found money—it's part of your annual income and should be treated with the same discipline as your regular salary.
What if all my friends are doing expensive December activities?
You have three options: suggest budget-friendly alternatives, politely decline and do your own thing, or find friends who respect financial boundaries. Real friends won't pressure you to spend money you don't have. If your current circle makes you feel bad for being financially responsible, it might be time to expand your circle.
Can I still travel in December without going broke?
Yes! Travel within your budget. Choose local destinations instead of expensive international trips. Travel during off-peak times when prices are lower. Book accommodations through budget platforms. Cook some meals instead of eating out for every meal. Travel with friends and split costs. The key is: only travel if it fits comfortably in your budget, not because you feel pressured to prove something.
Ready to Transform Your Financial Future?
Don't let another December destroy your finances. Join thousands of Nigerians building wealth through smart financial decisions and disciplined habits.
Samson Ese has been helping Nigerians build wealth online since 2016. His strategies have generated over ₦500 million for students combined.
© 2025 Daily Reality NG — Empowering Everyday Nigerians
All posts are independently written and fact-checked by Samson Ese based on real experience and verified sources.
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