Practising dad’s lessons on the value of money
What is more important to you: fame or fortune?
I would argue that I’m yet to achieve either. When I was younger I would definitely have said fame.
Now I’m more inclined to answer fortune. But both in equal measure. Are you a saver or a spender?
That depends on what day you ask me. Generally I’m a saver, but I do have days when the urge to blow cash recklessly overwhelms me and the plastic goes up in smoke. What is your biggest extravagance?
Books, pedicures and sushi lunches. What has been your best buy?
I always get massive value for money out of my phones as I use them so extensively for work. My phone is my microphone, my notepad, my diary, my laptop, my camera and really an extension of my body. Do you invest, and if so, what do you invest in?
I do consider myself quite financially conservative and do take care to try to invest wisely. Primary investments are our bond, life policies and a tiny share portfolio. What do you regret having bought?
I have a cupboard brimming with items that I regret having bought, from a foot spa to piles of CDs that are now redundant. Do you tip easily?
Definitely. My pet hate is people who tip poorly, largely because I worked as a waitress and know just how awful it is. Even if the service is terrible I’ll tip for effort. What is the best financial advice you’ve been given?
It would have to be a lesson my father taught me about the value of money. I lost a 1c bet with him when I was six years old and despite floods of tears and banging down the bathroom door, he made me cough it up. Do you have a financial adviser, or do you look after your own finances?
I do have a financial adviser but think it is imperative that you are financially aware and capable of looking after your own money. I am also inherently cynical, which may explain why I think it’s important to be self-sufficient. I reckon everyone is a Bernie Madoff. What did your childhood teach you about money?
That it doesn’t grow on trees. My father told me that repeatedly.
He also taught me to always carry cash, so wherever I go I have a note in a pocket. Have you ever been broke?
Close, but never broke. Always have something stashed away for a rainy day. Now that you earn more money, is life better?
Well, I’m not waiting tables any more and relying on miserly tippers to survive. Although journalism isn’t exactly the most lucrative industry around. If you won R10-million, what would you do with it?
I would like to believe that I would donate a portion to charity. Then I’d pay off all remaining debt, travel a lot, hire a PA and open an independent book store with fabulous couches and delicious coffee, purely as an indulgence.