Nollywood actor Timini Egbuson has revealed that he once borrowed money to maintain an extravagant lifestyle, admitting he lived beyond his means to impress others before changing his outlook on wealth and happiness.
Speaking on a recent episode of the MENtality Podcast, Egbuson said he previously spent heavily on luxury items, including an extensive perfume collection, but later realised those purchases did not bring lasting fulfilment.
The actor said the money he invested in collecting about 150 perfumes could have been put to better use by acquiring property.
“There will always be a newer watch, a newer car. I used to be a perfume collector. I had about 150. But I realised that I could have invested the money I spent acquiring perfumes in purchasing land,” he said.
Egbuson stressed that owning luxury items is not inherently wrong but urged people to examine whether their spending is driven by personal satisfaction or social pressure.
“I’m not trying to talk down on having a nice car or watch. But are you doing it for yourself or because of peer pressure? Are you genuinely happy with it? And without it, would you still be happy?” he asked.
Reflecting on difficult financial periods, the actor said he learned to remain content regardless of his circumstances, adding that projecting a perfect life online can be emotionally draining.
“There are times when I have been broke, but my energy is always the same because I found a way to be happy with whatever I have,” he said.
Egbuson also encouraged people to embrace both good and bad seasons of life rather than pretending everything is perfect for social media.
“I used to be that guy who lived a fake life and borrowed to impress people. But not anymore,” he added.
