“It’s not that I can’t; it’s that I don’t need to”: The video of a Cuban woman in the U.S. regarding her spending is making waves

A Cuban woman in Las Vegas goes viral on TikTok for her focus on spending for peace and stability rather than unnecessary luxuries. Her message resonates with Cuban migrants about financial priorities.


A Cuban woman living in Las Vegas with her husband has taken TikTok by storm with a video where she clearly and candidly lists the things she doesn't spend money on. "It's not that I can't, it's that we don't need it,” says @camsoria19 as she explains why she doesn't invest in salon nails, expensive perfumes, luxury makeup, or financed cars.

Their approach takes a different route: to invest in what provides them with peace and stability. A rental in a place that feels like home, comfortable furniture, tools for their online work, durable footwear, education that generates income, and, above all, support for their parents. Everything designed to build, not to impress.

“The environment also influences,” she states, convinced that living surrounded by tranquility helps more than any impulsive purchase. And for those wondering if they allow themselves any indulgences, she replies that yes, but in a mindful way: an occasional treat to recharge energy, without incurring unnecessary debts.

The most striking advice was clear and direct: “Do not reward yourself with unnecessary things for the efforts you have yet to make. Invest in your future and you will have everything you desire, but from a place of peace, not from debt.”

The reactions came quickly. One user wrote, "I work and study, but I enjoy the process because you never know when it's your last day on earth." Another shared with laughter, "I do spend on perfumes; I don’t want to miss out on that." There was also someone who felt inspired: "I am changing my mindset, and this video helped me."

Disagreements were not lacking. One woman shared her story: “That’s what I used to say, but look at me now, he kept the house we saved for and I’m not even doing my hair... now I live day by day.” Meanwhile, another user defended her weekend routine: “As a single mom, my kids and I do eat out on Saturdays. I need it.”

The video has created a space for dialogue about priorities, consumption, and well-being, especially among Cuban migrants who face the dilemma of saving for the future or indulging in pleasures that were impossible in Cuba. In any case, the publication achieved what few do: it made people think and connect.

Frequently Asked Questions About Saving and Conscious Consumption for Cubans in the United States

Why did @camsoria19 decide not to spend on certain luxuries in the United States?

@camsoria19 decided not to spend on certain luxuries like salon nails, expensive perfumes, and luxury makeup because she prefers to invest in what brings her and her husband peace and stability, such as a comfortable home and tools for her work. Her focus is on building a stable life rather than maintaining appearances, which includes supporting her parents and thinking about the future without falling into unnecessary debt.

What financial advice does @camsoria19 offer in his viral video?

The main advice from @camsoria19 is to invest in the future from a place of peace rather than debt. She recommends not rewarding oneself with unnecessary items for efforts that have not yet been made, and instead focusing resources on what truly contributes to personal and financial stability.

What has been the community's reaction on TikTok to the video by @camsoria19?

The reaction has been mixed; many people felt inspired by @camsoria19's approach and have shared how they are changing their mindset regarding consumption. However, there were also disagreements, with some individuals defending their spending choices on luxuries or experiences they consider essential for their well-being.

What challenges do Cuban migrants face in the U.S. regarding consumption and saving?

Cuban migrants in the U.S. face the dilemma of saving for the future or indulging in pleasures that were impossible in Cuba. This challenge is amplified by family expectations to provide financial support and the pressures of high living costs, which necessitate careful management of available resources.

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Izabela Pecherska

Editor at CiberCuba. Graduated in Journalism from the Rey Juan Carlos University of Madrid, Spain. Editor at El Mundo and PlayGround.