Hello,

Just 2 days ago I started a new job renovating homes at $10/hr, 35-40 hours a week. If I am not mistaken, my paycheck should be around $650-$700 every 2 weeks. I do not get paid for 3 weeks, since I started in the middle of the pay period.

First off, ensure your current checking account doesn't charge any fees: 5$ a month will add up. Find a good bank that'll offer you free checking etc; they're out there. What's more, see if you qualify for free or subsidized healthcare in your state: you don't want to get injured and gain needless medical debt -- it'll lose you the entire game. And take care of your body and brush your teeth and use mouthwash daily: you don't want to deal with distracting pain that is easily avoided.

I have a 2003 Ford Explorer that I am pretty sure will break down soon. I have all my clothes, blankets, hygiene stuff, my Laptop, Mac desktop, Xbox, TV, and shoes. I just filled my gas tank up and have about $80 cash in my wallet.

• See if your state offers to buy a broken down car; in california they'll offer up to $1500 in certain conditions. Use this to buy yourself a well maintained, low mileage honda civic or toyota corolla.
• Sell all the unessential now: items like the gaming console will weigh you down and you might inevitable lose them throughout your course. You'll be glad you used the cash for the essential and saved the rest.
• Sign up for a library card and read books like 7 habits by steven covey, etc. Unfortunately because of your parents, your mind will be clouded and it's imperative for your well being to refresh your mind with new ideas.

My iPhone is financed through T-Mobile; I used to pay my dad for the phone bills. He is probably going to shut my phone off soon. He pays my insurance and stuff as well...

I don't know how tmobile's coverage is in florida, but in california it's amazing for the price. See about the monthly plan and don't buy an expensive liability (phone) right now: check amazon for an unlocked GSM phones; consider the Asus Zenfone 2e For $70 you have a phone you'll own outright WITH NO EXTRA MONTHLY PAYMENTS :D Phones like these have everything you need to get shit done!!

I have a gym membership so I can use their showers and still be able to drive to work.

Working out will be the best stress relief to get. Don't ignore your nutrition: buy rice and beans and eat these together: they'll provide your mind and body with the essential amino acids you need at a spectacular price. Mix in some frozen veggies: they're healthier than unfrozen and waaaaaay cheaper too.

Remember that what currently is doesn't always have to be. You can break the cycle, provided you remember what you're striving towards.

PS:5 years from now when you get to that amazing place in life where you're happy and not worried about money -- be wary of emotional vampires who'll come running back into your life. You might feel selfish and run towards them. You might even feel you're undeserving of your success. But never forget you've earned and worth everything you worked for ~