What is your book called and what is it about?
Financially Fit Women equips you with the knowledge and understanding to boost your confidence in making financial decisions. It offers practical advice on various financial topics such as setting goals, spending, investing, debt reduction and retirement planning. It encourages you to take charge of your financial future and set yourself up for success.
Tell us more about you?
I am a mother of two amazing young women, Bella and Livvy, who are both my motivation and constant inspiration. In my spare time – my two vices are competing in Ironman Triathlons and indulging in good red wine with my village at the local wine bar.
I have 20+ years in the Financial Planning industry and I have never been afraid of a challenge or to challenge the rules. In 2016, I made the leap into my own business as a result of challenging what I was being “told” I had to do for clients by my then employer. I still have these clients today; they feature in this book. I wake up every day loving what I do and knowing that I am really good at it.
I am grateful for the daily lessons in life that both my children and clients teach me. I see that as a privilege. My go-to word is “legacy” – not just for my two girls but for all of the generations of women to come.
Let us get to know you a little better by answering these quickfire questions:
What is your favourite quote? “The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched – they must be felt with the heart.” – Helen Keller
What is your favourite book? I’m assuming relatively unknown – A Life Without Limits by Chrissie Wellington (Ironman Triathlete)
Who is your role model? Hands down my grandfather for so many more reasons than I can share in a sentence – stay tuned on that (hint hint). His purpose in life was family and looking after his broader community – never letting his disability deter him.
Who in your life has inspired you the most and why? The women of my family in the generations before me (mother, grandmother, great grandmother) – all women who have had courage and strength.
What is your coffee order? Skinny latte.
Pet peeves? I’m glad you have plural here – haha.
What inspired you to write this book?
I have never been one to sit quietly when I believe that more should and could be done for people, and this book is no different. By writing this book, I am acknowledging that huge gaps exist for women in this day but more importantly I want to lead a change in the accessibility of information for all women to build both their knowledge and confidence in owning their financial lives.
How did you find the process of writing and publishing your book?
Challenging. I actually wrote it quite quickly. The challenging part was getting it to the (unachievable) level of ‘perfect’ I wanted. Other than my own issues (haha) the process was easy and supported thanks to my amazing publisher.
What surprised you most about the writing process?
The constant doubt and imposter syndrome I felt. I know I am different to so many other advisors and categorically know I am really good at what I do and still the fear was overwhelming at times.
What do you hope the reader gets from reading this book?
I hope to instill a sense of confidence for the reader (female or male). During and after reading this book, I hope that, particularly women, feel empowered with knowledge to make informed decisions about money goals, money management and achieving financial fitness.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to write a book but doesn’t know how?
Is this a trick question? HaHa. Of course, they go straight to Dean Publishing where they will be in safe and caring hands. The other advice I have (from experience) is “take a depth breath and believe in yourself”. I truly believe the best way to learn is through the sharing of stories
