This week marks 200 blogs written over the past five years. It provides a reason to reflect.
When I analysed the most popular blogs, I noticed they were always about my own life —often something deeply personal, an element I was working through. In particular, themes centered around the unique challenges of women. It seems people like to feel connected to another person’s struggles. I suspect that when I shine a light on the challenges of my life, people feel connected when they recognise the same challenges in their own lives.
Sharing stories deepens our connections. It doesn’t matter that we don’t have answers. Sometimes, in sharing, we find answers, but even if we don’t, connection lightens our load. This connection is important and essential on a personal level and when navigating the complexities of life and money.
When I began these blogs, I wanted to write about that intersection: the point where life and money merge and often collide. In my experience, we can be the best advisors, but if we don’t help people navigate that intersection, we won’t improve financial outcomes. The intersection is a point that merges the financial with the science of human behaviour; but it also includes values, our money stories and our pictures of the future.
Readers’ feedback is that they resonate more when I write about navigating life than money itself. I found that fascinating. It confirmed for me that money needed to be in its rightful place – an instrument to facilitate a good life. This journey of blending personal experiences with financial advice has shaped the blog and influenced my growth.
It has been one of the best things that’s happened to me. It has given me a voice. I have often doubted myself, thinking, “Who am I to think I have something to say?” Yet, I have kept going because people responded to my words. My words and my thoughts have meant something to them. Sometimes, they would say, “I needed to hear that today.” It’s helped people navigate their own lives and maintain perspective. It's connected me to random people who have found their way to the blog.
It would not have happened had I not overcome the question, “Who am I to do this?” It’s a question that never quite leaves. So many voices are out there that are louder, more eloquent, and better equipped than mine. The world of words seems overcrowded, and sometimes, it feels futile to add to that noise.
Yet, I’m resolved to keep writing. I write not only for others but also to make sense of myself. It helps me arrange what are often random thoughts into a limited, defined space. It’s a weekly rhythm that requires discipline, a discipline that has made me more observant and curious.
The clarity and perspective I Gained from it have helped me become a better financial partner to my clients, with more empathy and a genuine interest in their lives. It’s helped me speak into an industry that I believe needs to be about more than just numbers, one that needs to be more human so everyone can achieve financial freedom.
Here’s to our journey together. Thanks for being here.
Ps. I’d love to hear about your favourite blogs or what you’d like to hear more about.
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Kind regards,
Sunél