You work. Maybe even more than full-time. You’re doing everything “right.”
But no matter how hard you grind, you’re still broke - and deep down, you know it’s not because you messed up. It’s because the system is built this way.
Let’s break it down with some real numbers.
1. Household Debt Is Crushing US
As of early 2025, total household debt in the U.S. hit $18.2 trillion - a record high.
That’s not just mortgages. That’s credit cards, student loans, car payments, medical bills - all stacked on top of each other.
On average, each household is carrying over $105,000 in debt. And that weight doesn’t just sit there - it grows. It collects interest. It follows you.
2. Credit Cards: Borrowing Just to Breathe
Americans are now juggling $1.18 trillion in credit card debt.
And the average balance? About $6,730 per person.
But here’s the kicker: if you're carrying a revolving balance of around $10,000 and only making minimum payments, you could end up paying nearly $28,000 total by the time it's done, just from interest.
That’s not financial freedom. That’s a treadmill you can’t step off.
3. Student Loans: Starting Life in the Red
Want an education? Be prepared to pay forever.
Today, 43 million Americans owe a combined $1.77 trillion in student debt.
The average student leaves school with around $35,000 owed. But by the time that’s paid off - if it ever gets paid off—it’s often double that thanks to interest.
It’s a system that says: “Learn so you can earn. But first, go into debt.”
4. Housing Is a Joke—And You’re the Punchline
In 2025, the average rent in the U.S. is about $1,625 per month. In major cities? It’s often much more.
Even studio apartments are rising faster than wages - up nearly 6% in one year. People aren’t living paycheck to paycheck - they’re living rent check to rent check.
Owning a home? That dream’s out of reach for millions. You’re not building wealth - you’re just surviving.
5. Food and Groceries: Everyday Essentials, Luxury Prices
Between 2020 and 2024, food prices rose 23.6%, outpacing even inflation.
That carton of eggs that used to be $1.50? Now it’s $4.15. Groceries feel like a splurge, not a basic need.
More than 8 million American households experience food insecurity. That’s not just statistics - that’s real families skipping meals to pay the power bill.
6. Medical Debt: Get Sick, Go Broke
In the richest country on earth, 14 million Americans owe more than $1,000 in medical bills.
Another 3 million owe more than $10,000.
It’s not because they were reckless. It’s because one ambulance ride or emergency room visit can destroy your credit score - and your peace of mind.
Total medical debt in the U.S.? Over $220 billion.
So Why Does It Feel Like You’re Failing?
Because you’re stuck in a system that runs on your exhaustion.
You’re not lazy. You’re not irresponsible.
You’re overworked, underpaid, and overcharged.
Debt is the cage.
Interest is the chain.
And “freedom” is the lie they sell you while they profit off your struggle.
The Bottom Line
You’re not alone. Millions are stuck in the same trap.
This isn’t just about personal finance - it’s about policy. About power. About a system designed to extract every ounce of labor and obedience while someone else collects the check.
It’s time to stop blaming yourself.
Because the truth is:
The game was rigged long before you started playing.
