The BRAVE new You

In some ways, I am grateful for the journey my money story has taken me on. I have spent hours of self-reflecting and even more on trying to find my purpose in the world. I have read every book on financial planning, retirement, money stories and being courageous in the face of uncertainty that I could lay my hands on. And in my hours of reflection, I have come to understand that our journeys cannot be rushed. It takes the time that it takes. And you have to stay brave even if you stumble and fall every now and again. In the words of Brene Brown, my favourite author of all times, “If we are brave enough, often enough, we will fall.”

Living a brave life is not easy. We will inevitably falter – but it is here, in the place where we reach the lowest depths of despair, that we are able to make peace with our disappointment and failure. Brene Brown says that this acceptance gives us the power to rise up with renewed hope and vigour. Being brave also means not being afraid to feel your emotions deeply, and this discomfort forms the basis of our greatest learning.

In my money story journey, I have found my life’s purpose – to share my learning about money and to assist you to put money in its right place – making sure that money enables you to live the life you really want to have, a place where money aligns perfectly with the pattern of your ideal world.

As you start your journey on changing your money story, I would like to remind you of some guidelines to hopefully make this journey just a little easier:

• Remember that money is just money. It is simply a currency. Don’t let any meaning you may have attached to money stand in your way of living a fulfilled life.
• The purpose of money is to support your life dreams. Money is the currency you use to enable your goals and desires. Money cannot bring you inner happiness or inner peace.
• As you take ownership of your money story, it is important to look after your money. I often equate money to oxygen – without it you cannot live. Money brings you choice – the freedom to choose.
• Embrace the fact that you are in control of your money story. You are not a victim of circumstance. You can control your money destiny.

I encourage you to seek advice from a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® Professional. They will assist you in planning for your life and help you draft a financial plan to support your life.

Sometimes, all you need is to be open and see life from a different angle. This tiny shift of perspective is what allows a flicker of new light in. And that’s when the magic starts to happen.