The day my client ghosted me after I spent my savings on new gear

Two years ago I got my biggest freelance gig yet, a fintech campaign. I was hype, bought a new laptop and camera with my savings, about ₦850k. Client kept piling revisions, delayed payment for months, then disappeared completely.

I was broke, embarrassed, and hiding from my landlord. My mother didn't even know I had spent that money. I learned the hard way: never spend what you haven't collected. Now I take 50% upfront before I touch any project.

This economy no dey carry last. Anyone else get story like this?