How a 30-Year-Old Earns $27,000 Monthly: 5 Expenses She Always Avoids

In April 2020, I embarked on a journey to transform my passion for creating art into a lifestyle brand called DomoINK. Initially a side hustle.

DomoINK has blossomed into a thriving business, now earning me around $27,000 a month in passive income at the age of 30. The brand celebrates diversity through art, home décor, apparel, and gifts, and recently, we've expanded our offerings with a hair accessories line in partnership with Goody Tru, available at Walmart. Our products are also featured in Target, HomeGoods, Macy’s, and Urban Outfitters, both in stores and online.

Despite my comfortable earnings, I maintain a frugal lifestyle, always on the lookout for deals, discounts, and ways to save money. Here are five expenses I consciously avoid:

1. Alcohol

I’ve never developed a taste for alcohol, and this has proven to be a financial advantage. Not only do I save money when socializing, but I also avoid the high costs associated with drinking.

2. Luxury Designer Items

Even though I can afford designer clothes, I choose comfort over luxury. Working remotely has made me realize the limited need for an extensive wardrobe. My preference for casual wear, like sweatpants, means I rarely wear the designer pieces I already own. Observing the unworn clothes with price tags still attached in my closet, I understand that investing in designer items isn’t a financially wise choice for me.

3. Gambling

Living in California, just a few hours away from Las Vegas, it would be easy to indulge in gambling. However, I’ve seen too many friends and family members lose more than they’ve gained at casinos. This early exposure to the pitfalls of gambling has deterred me from ever trying it. Instead, I prefer to invest my money in the stock market, which has historically yielded solid returns.

4. Extended Warranties

Through personal experience, I’ve learned that extended warranties often aren’t worth the extra cost. They come with numerous exclusions and limitations, making it difficult to file a successful claim. For example, when my couch started tearing, the repair wasn’t covered under the warranty I had purchased. Now, I set aside a monthly fund to cover repair or replacement costs for my belongings, eliminating the need for extended warranties.

5. Professional Manicures and Pedicures

Before the pandemic, I used to spend over $150 a month on salon manicures and pedicures. During the pandemic, I decided to learn how to do my nails at home. With an initial investment of $60 for supplies, including a UV LED nail lamp and gel nail polish set, I’ve mastered the art of doing my own manicures and pedicures. I haven’t visited a nail salon since, which has significantly reduced my monthly expenses.

By consciously avoiding these expenses, I’m able to save more and invest in what truly matters to me, ensuring long-term financial stability and growth for my business and personal life.