Abdul finally got his raise. His bills celebrated first.
An extra $500 a month. New spending: $540. Somehow, success left him with $40 less breathing room.
Pocket Drama brings everyday money choices to life through original comic stories. Meet Abdul, Alice and Elmo—and the little decisions that become very real bills.
Watch the episode
Read the comic
Follow the six scenes below. Tap any panel to open the full-size image.
The money lesson
A raise creates possibilities. New recurring commitments decide how much of that possibility stays yours.
In Abdul’s fictional example, the additional monthly costs are a $200 car payment, $60 insurance, $140 delivery, $100 shopping and installments, and $40 subscriptions. Together, they total $540 a month.
$500 extra take-home pay − $540 extra spending = $40 less each month. His existing income and expenses stay unchanged in this example; it does not tell us his total budget or debt.
Before adding commitments, decide what you want extra income to change. Review spending you can adjust, and check the terms and consequences before changing a car contract.
Your turn
What would you do first with an extra $500 a month?
Next: The Discount That Cost Her.
Fictional story. Illustrative monthly amounts.
Continue reading
PIPO 009 — When Enough Becomes Invisible — on comparison, wanting more, and recognizing what already matters.
PIPO 001 — The Courage to Think Independently — on questioning familiar assumptions and making choices with your own judgment.
Pocket Drama — Everyday choices. Real money lessons.
Cosimo von Batie
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