<prompt> Human: I am curious what causes this. My sister is always struggling with bills, as an outsider and someone who has been observing for a long time. Its not that they dont get paid, well maybe some dont, I havent pryed, but its always a struggle, and life always goes on. Why is it so hard for people to get only 1 month ahead? This would mean no more late fees or rushed days of making payments. It would be huge really, at least with the struggle. I dont think I can help in this situation, but maybe I can have some more clarity of it. Thank you  <response>: There was a good cracked article on this , some of it is self inflicted, other is just life.Essentially once you get into living paycheck to paycheck it becomes a lifestyle .If you get a windfall tax return you will spend it all immediately on TV, cell phone ect.Why because its your lifestyle you always spend all you money by your next paycheck.Also because you have no money you cannot make good financial buying choices. At the grocery store they are selling something for 5 a piece or 3 for 10...you buy one because you an need that extra 5. ...you keep fixing your old car that breaks down every month because you cant afford a newer that may be cheaper in the short run. 