"You'll Try Again Next Year": Woman Shows 12 Months' Savings Fail

• A woman’s attempt at a year-long savings challenge ended in an unexpected reveal that many found painfully relatable
• The viral video struck a chord by showing how real-life expenses can derail even the best intentions
• The TikTok video opened up a wider conversation about financial honesty and starting over for young people

One transparent salary breakdown reshaped how teachers think about their careers, showing how experience can translate into opportunity beyond local borders.

A TikTok video posted by @vanessasephesu on 14 December 2025 showed a woman opening her piggy bank after what was meant to be a full year of saving. In the clip, she cut open the container to reveal a surprisingly small amount of money inside, which appeared to be less than R50. The video was shared to show the outcome of her 12-month savings attempt and to be honest about how the plan did not go as expected. She explained through the video’s captions and narration that the savings challenge did not work out and that she would try it again the following year.

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Savings challenges have become popular on social media, with many people using piggy banks, jars or envelope systems to put away small amounts over time. The idea is often to save spare change or set amounts daily or weekly, especially for people trying to build better financial habits. However, the video highlighted how easily these plans can fail when life expenses, emergencies or simple forgetfulness get in the way, something many South Africans can relate to given the rising cost of living.

Savings challenge reality check

User @vanessasephesu’s clip quickly spread because of its honesty and humour. Many viewers recognised themselves in the situation, especially those who started the year with financial goals that quietly fell apart over time. The lighthearted way the woman shared her failed attempt made the video relatable rather than embarrassing, which helped it resonate widely across the platform.

Overall, netizens online responded with laughter, understanding and encouragement. Instead of criticism, the general feeling was that trying and failing is still part of learning. Many felt the video normalised financial struggles and reminded others that restarting is always an option.

Here’s what Mzansi had to say

Mika wrote:

“Not worth it. Qatar pays more, tax-free, with free accommodation plus monthly allowances for food and transportation.”

Love wrote:

“Remember to consider the cost of living in New Zealand. That money is not for the South African economy.”

Ausi Releh wrote:

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“The problem is, I want to get paid that amount of money here in South Africa. 😬”

Ashley wrote:

“I love how you’re not stingy with information. 🔥🤌🏽 Very demure.”

Myles wrote:

“Rent is R7 000 per week. We really need to think twice before coming.”

Tariro Roselyn Taruv wrote:

“Don’t forget the cost of living. When comparing salaries, it’s important to use a purchasing power parity calculator because your salary can sometimes do more at home than overseas.”

blessing95 wrote:

“I’ve lived there for over six years, and the cost of living is high, especially housing, but after deductions, you can still save between R25 000 and R35 000 monthly, which is better than being unemployed.”

Gulf Princess wrote:

“An agent once told me I’d be paid R100k in New Zealand, and I was shocked. I guess the Middle East will always be the better option.”

Check out the TikTok video below:

3 Other Briefly News stories related to piggy banks

• A woman’s video showing her attempt to rescue ruined piggy bank savings moved thousands online and became a symbol of perseverance and resilience.
• A young South African woman shocked social media users when she emptied her large piggy bank filled with R50, R100 and R200 notes.
• A local schoolgirl shared in a viral TikTok video the amount of money she saved since the beginning of the year.

Source: Briefly News