While browsing through some of my favorite bloggers, and reading their latest posts, this one from Our Next Life really impacted me. It reminded me of a common discussion my closest girlfriends and I have when we get together and start to have meaningful conversations (introduced by wine). The discussion basically outlines the following statement: “People assume that our online lifestyles are what our day-to-day realities consist of.”

And does anyone really believe that? I mean I certainly don’t spend every day of my life going on exciting adventures, and attending every event in my city (you guys already know that if you follow me on Twitter, though).

However, it’s now a normal conversation to chat about your friends-friend who is always away on luxurious vacations and out enjoying expensive dinners. It’s hard to differentiate. Sometimes even for the ones who are posting.

See here: Teen Instagram Star Speaks Out About The Ugly Truth Behind Social Media Fame

For those closest to me, they know that I am an advocate for every element of social media. It is my career, it is a lesson, and it is unavoidable. If you are not transparent with your personal brand, you are almost viewed as the “weird” one in today’s society.

But my greatest reason for sharing photos and stories of your best moments through social media, is because they will forever be on the internet (as creepy as that may be). My online profiles contain snapshots of my life that I want to remember over and over again. And if they make others joyful (or angry), then so be it.

But what Our Next Life really wanted to do with this blog post, was reflect on whether they are being fully honest in sharing all of the good and bad parts of their financial story.

I love that they shared some of the realities of their day-to-day lives, as well as their financial blunders, because it is important to discover that line of normalcy. And I want to do the same for some of my readers.

I am by no means perfect. People see me discussing financial literacy and management, and they want to hear my input, but my advice is merely just that, advice.

I am not an expert. And I still prove to find myself dealing with financial disappointments regularly.

In fact, here are some of my honest financial scenarios:

• I went over budget in March by $120

• I consistently go over-budget by $100 in entertainment (which is why I leave a buffer)

• I still need to pay off $2000 in student loans

• My wedding budget has increased by +$5000 from its original goal

• I am and will forever be afraid to spend money

As for my day-to-day life, I think I’m pretty transparent in what I’m spending most of my time doing. And that is eating, sleeping, or tweeting.

No one out there is in perfect financial form. Not even your most favorite bloggers of all time.

But the important thing is that we are all trying to learn, manage our goals, and work towards a brighter financial future. Maybe one day we’ll get the hang of it. But that doesn’t have to be today.

So if you follow Mixed Up Money for my wacky and unapologetic humour, then I’m thrilled.

But if you follow me assuming that I am a perfect financial example, then I’m sorry.

Because as much as I want to be, and as much as I would love to be seen as a financial goddess, I still have just as much of a hill to climb as you.

What are some financial blunders you’ve had to deal with lately? Let me know in the comments.

PS: A huge welcome to all of my new followers that have joined me in the recent weeks and months. If you’d like to know more about me, please send me a note or follow me on Twitter and strike up a conversation. I’m always around.

And also, check out some of my most popular posts below:

Can You Even Afford That?

My First Big Girl Job Was a Financial Nightmare

40 Things You Can Do Once You’re Debt-Free

3 Tricks I Use to Spend Less