My Money Sorted: Ema

What’s the best money advice you’ve been given?

To always save for a rainy day. It may be common sense, but sometimes things don’t go our way and we can’t always plan for that. Regularly contributing to my emergency savings in case I ever need them to fall back on makes me feel calmer about money.

Are you a spender or a saver?

Since the Covid lockdowns, I’ve definitely become a saver. Looking back at all of my impulse boredom purchases really made me re-evaluate how I was spending my money. I try not to be too strict on myself, though, and make sure I put some money aside each month to treat myself.

What’s a memorable money moment you’ve experienced?

I think my biggest learning moment was when I realised I could feel much more relaxed and safe if I split my savings into multiple accounts. Being able to budget everything individually rather than having one big savings account makes me feel more organised and fulfilled as I can plan ahead for my bigger spends.

What makes you feel sorted when it comes to your money?

I started feeling sorted with my money when I started setting goals for each of my savings accounts. I found I’m much less likely to transfer money out of my savings to go out for dinner (we’ve all done it) when I hold myself accountable and remind myself that saving will help me out later.

What money beliefs have you inherited from your friends and whānau?

To always make sure what I’m doing workwise is making me happy, no matter how much it pays. I think my perspective on money is that how much I have or make will never be the be all and end all. Money will come and go every day of our lives, but the way we treat ourselves and those around us sticks for a lifetime. I think this mindset will help me out when the future gets a bit scary to think about.

What would your bank account say to you right now?

It would 100% tell me to stop panicking and that everything will be okay. Times are tough at the moment, but we’ve managed to stick around so far!

What’s been your proudest money moment?

When I first started earning money at 15 and was able to be generous with my friends, family and charities. I had no concept of savings then, but I loved finally being able to give back to my community.

When you think about your retirement, what do you see?

To be honest, I haven’t started thinking about retirement yet, but I hope I’ll be surrounded by everyone I love and many, many animals, and hopefully living somewhere quiet, out of Auckland.