Giving and gratitude

It’s a time of year focussed on gratitude, giving and new beginnings. But, did you know that studies have shown that people who regularly practice giving thanks are happier and healthier?According to a psychology professor at the University of California at Davis, people who regularly practice feeling thankful have an advantage when it comes to […]

Crafty Gift Ideas

When it comes to gifts they say it’s the thought that counts. While it’s great to receive the latest gadget that you’ve been eyeing for a while, it won’t be nearly as heartfelt as a one-of-a-kind handmade gift.You can save money and creatively tackle your gift list this year with some crafty gift ideas. The […]

Fun things to do for around R50 (or less!)

The holidays are the perfect time to get outside, spend time with the family and do something out of the ordinary. It’s best to find activities that are both financially and family-friendly otherwise the costs start piling up!That’s why I’ve put together this list of fun things to do in Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban […]

Online shopping in South Africa

I find it frustrating when I can’t think of a gift to give someone who is difficult to buy for. The situation is only made worse when it’s the busiest time of the year at the malls. Luckily for me, online shopping in South Africa is growing at a phenomenal rate.Not only does this mean […]

RUN YOUR PERSONAL FINANCES LIKE A BUSINESS

Many finance professionals and journalists agree that managing your finances as you would a business is the key to prosperity. Even the best business ideas can fail if the capital and revenue are not carefully monitored. Similarly, if you mismanage cash on a personal level you could find that you’re short of money by the […]

DO YOU NEED A BUY-AND-SELL?

This unfortunate situation plays out time and again in businesses around the world. The death of an active business partner places undue stress on both the business and the surviving partners.Business owners must be prepared for any eventuality that might affect their businesses, including the sudden departure of a business partner. Disaster can be avoided […]

ANIMAL SAFETY FOR GUY FAWKES

Studies show that interactions with therapy animals can decrease stress in humans. Playing with or petting an animal can increase levels of the stress-reducing hormone oxytocin and decrease production of the stress hormone cortisol. With 5 November around the corner I thought I would share some safety tips for pets and animals to reduce their […]

TIPS TO SAVING FOR YOUR CHILDREN’S EDUCATION

Investing in your child’s education is often one of the most important yet challenging saving endeavours you can undertake and as a parent you don’t need any reminding of the urgency to start planning and saving today.Having a baby has financial implications and most new and future parents need to start saving straight away if […]

HOW TO SURVIVE CHRISTMAS

Christmas is almost around the corner. If you want to survive the holiday season without sapping your bank account, now is the time to start planning. The number one rule for spending money is this: Have a plan, but don’t just have a plan – stick to it!Draw up a budget If you’ve read my […]

KEEPING ABREAST OF CANCER

October marks Breast Cancer Awareness month, the second most common cancer (after skin cancer) in women in South Africa. According to the National Cancer Registry, 1 in 33 women are at risk of developing breast cancer.Men can also develop breast cancer although they are at a significantly lower risk with 1 in 1249 developing this […]