Considering the absence of legal coercion, the surprising thing is that men have for so long and, on the whole, so reliably adhered to what we might call the breadwinner ethic.
—Barbara Ehrenreich
Remember when you could buy a carton of noodles without flinching at the price? Or when eggs were so cheap, your folks never argued how many you ate in a day, or how your mother would buy baskets upon baskets of tomatoes, peppers and onions in earnest anticipation to feed you and incoming guests without screaming over how much stew you poured on your rice? Ah remember? Those were the times to be had. When parents as breadwinners did not count every kobo, pinch every naira, asked for a total breakdown of how and why money on basic amenities (for your information deodorant is now six thousand plus) are looking like you took a trip to Dubai and back overnight. Yes these are the financial perilous times we live in, where the breadwinner, be they common or not, must now ration or make a choice on what to eat and not to eat, what can be sacrificed and what can’t.
As much as many may laugh (either your pockets are very deep and this makes no sense to you, or your pocket is so broken the only valid reaction is a sad I-can’t-believe-this-is-real laughter…either way a laugh was laughed) or deeply sigh at this write-up, we must understand that, yes, times are indeed hard, but how hard has it truly become?
We are currently living in a world where the prices of basic amenities seem to be shooting to the stars faster than NASA can get a rocket into space while chasing squirrels on a caffeine bender. Today’s humble breadwinners (women in this age are breadwinners too, no longer does the stereotype hold that only men are the providers) are unfortunately finding themselves caught in a constant tornado-whirlwind none needed romance of financial woes and existential dread (these days it feels like defeat). What was once a simple task of working, earning, accurately budgeting, putting food on the table, and having a little extra to splurge on life’s little decadent pleasures (some travel, some get ice cream, some have a cold beer…to each his/her own indulgence) has now evolved into the worst kind of hunger ProMax game of financial survival, where now the odds are stacked too high against those brave enough to take on the role of provider-in-chief a.k.a. the breadwinner (heaven help those who even take care of others outside their immediate circle or family).
If you are new to reading any article I have written…welcome to that article section that gives you alternative insights and perspectives into daily societal cases and issues, while teaching you how to either appreciate scenarios or possibly prevent them. To the old, having you here is always a plus. So let us dive right into it, shall we? Let us dive into the mad-hatting wonders of money, consequences, and possible solutions of “Being Breadwinners: The Struggle And Temptations”.
This will be served hot or cold, let your mind decide! Remember, deep breaths, and let’s jump, shall we?
Breadwinning, Crime and Time
In a home where there is an able-bodied husband, he is expected to be the breadwinner – Ezra Taft Benson
The world we, as people, live in at the moment, some will say is becoming less and less conducive for anyone to make plans, have goals or see the much needed light at the end of the tunnel, and unfortunately this is all currently thanks to the ever-increasing cost of living, coupled with the relentless march of consumerism, has turned the simple act of providing for one’s family (or self…because single people matter, too) into a Herculean task of epic proportions. People are starting to get desperate, and when I mean people for this context I mean breadwinners.
Many breadwinners are in a constant struggle to keep up with the seemingly unending rising waves of expenses that sap what little resources one has, because of the economic downturn. This has given a leeway for the gritty dark underbelly of society to now proudly rear its ugly head (in some desperate cases, can you really blame them. Please, we do not support crime of any kind; we are just seeking a balance between understanding and judgement). As desperate times now call for desperate measures, some are turning to less-than-legal means to make ends meet (because hunger cancels rational thought and makes the irrational rational). From petty theft to white-collar crime, the excessive and very overwhelming pressure to provide can drive even the most law-abiding citizen to unreasonable actions. Let us look at the top five easy to fall into crimes that breadwinners often find themselves in.
1. Petty Theft
Some breadwinners may feel compelled to resort to petty theft such as shoplifting (bread here, egg there) or stealing from their workplace. As much as empathy will leave a snail trail for those caught, one must understand that this can lead to criminal charges, fines (imagine looking for bail money when you have nothing to eat that pushed you towards this act in the first place), and even jail time. It’s important to remember that the consequences of getting caught far outweigh the temporary relief of stealing.
2. Prostitution and Possible Trafficking
Here the thin line between rational thought and desperation are very blurred. A lot of people will regard this only as a woman’s problem, yet in the world we live in at the moment, men fall into this category, too. When amenities and supplies become unavailable, both the good and the bad align. Most unfortunately either traffic their children, wives or resort to selling their own bodies. The need for temporary relief can unfortunately lead many down this path. There are societal and judicial consequences when caught, and let’s just agree that the internet never forgets.
3. Embezzlement
A little scheming here, a little scheming there. Breadwinners in positions of financial responsibility may be tempted to embezzle money from their employers to support their families (especially those who may be in positions to handle cash, be it physically or digitally). With the mindset fuelled by desperation, many who do not get caught believe God or luck is on their side simply because it was not noticed initially, but here is the thing; someone, somewhere always, or eventually notices. Embezzlement is a serious crime that can result in severe penalties. It’s far better to seek help from available support networks or seek out alternative sources of income rather than jeopardising or fully destroying one’s career and future.
4. Taking Loans and Not Paying Back
There is nothing wrong with securing loans, be it from people you know, available digital platforms, or even the bank. What is wrong however is not paying them back. Due to bad influences, many who take out loans in the bid not to pay it back provide fraudulent information to lenders. This is a risky route some breadwinners may consider. Aside from legal consequences such as financial penalties and ruining reputations (if you know or have fallen prey to the evil calls and texts loan apps send your contacts, then you should have a clear view of what not to do) or even broken bones (because loan sharks come in all shapes, forms, and sizes), one can fall into a cycle of debt that prolongs financial struggles even more.
5. Online Scams
Nigerians call this dubious act yahoo yahoo. Due to global advancement and the often naive use of the digital age, some breadwinners may be lured into participating in online scams or schemes promising quick and easy money. This has unfortunately caused a rise in suicides from those scammed and depression or psychotic breaks (do not break others simply because you are broken). It’s crucial to exercise caution online, avoid get-rich-quick schemes, and seek out credible financial advice and resources to navigate challenging financial situations.
Clear the Air
I worry that some politicians still think we are living in the 1950s where the man is the main breadwinner and the woman works for pin money. Actually, most families where there are two parents depend on two incomes to get by. –Frances O’Grady
Remember what was said earlier about empathy and understanding when crimes are committed; yes that still stands but as much as we want to understand that individuals (breadwinners) may feel tempted to resort to criminal activities to provide for their loved ones, we must factor in the risks and consequences associated with engaging in illegal actions because those consequences will always far outweigh any temporary relief they may provide. It is advised that breadwinners seeking help look into alternative daily revenue (being a roadside petty trader is better than a breadwinner in jail). Being resourceful in exploring legitimate assistance programs, and maintaining integrity in the face of financial adversity will be the most rewarding and essential in preserving one’s well-being, sanity, reputation, and future stability.
Conclusion
There was a time when only men could provide or work, and still a lot of countries are like that. But there’s a price to be paid for that when you’re expected to be the full-time caretaker and you’re expected to be the full-time breadwinner
— Patricia Arquette
Dear brave breadwinners (yes men, women and, in some cases, children), all is not lost! There are still viable ways to navigate this treacherous financial black-holed Kraken without resorting to a life of crime (seriously, crime does not pay; you may think it does in the beginning, but luck will not always be on your side). By budgeting, financial planning, streamlining needs and wants (what is important versus what is not important). Yes! It may not be the most exciting part of your new situation, but they can make a world of difference in ensuring that you and your family’s needs are met without sacrificing your sanity.
In addition to mentally, and physically choking the purse strings, reaching out for help is not a sign of weakness, but a display of strength. Search for community resources (this is dependent on your region), support groups, and even therapy (if therapy is too expensive, look at your inner circle for the person who will listen without judgement) can provide much-needed relief for those feeling the weight of the world on their shoulders.
So, while we laugh at online skits that make light of our current plight and gnash our teeth in recognition, let me applaud you for being resilient despite it all. This article is dedicated to you breadwinners of the world – those earnestly juggling work, family, their sanity, their faith and the seemingly never ending pursuit of financial stability. You must know that your sacrifices do not go unnoticed, your efforts are truly inspirational and beautiful in its own chaotic way. In a world filled to the brim with materialism and excess, you continue to not only rise but stand as a pillar of strength and grace as shining examples of what it means to truly provide for those you love and cater for. Keep your head up, your wallet close and tight, your needs prioritized, and your sense of humour intact (yes, laugh through the pain) for in the end, it’s not the things that truly matter, but the dedication you bring to the table each and every day. Till next time, bye.
