I’m fascinated by what makes people tick and that’s why I initially chose a career in journalism and later in communications (which also involves a lot of talking and finding out information). I’ve always loved the whole idea of finance and financial markets. The share market represents to me a series of stories. Companies are living organisms and have their histories too. Investing is both a science and an art and you can never know enough about it. One thing that struck me is that women tend to miss out a lot on experiences in this area. It’s only in the last decade that we’re catching up. The psychology behind money behaviour especially applies to women and that’s where the first book started from.
Thinking financially about?
Like most women my age, I’m thinking a lot about superannuation right now and whether we’ll have enough for later. I don’t plan to stop work anytime soon but I’d like to save more. We still have a young daughter so there’s a lot to come financially and every other way.
Planning?
To clean up my office anytime now and the house (I never quite manage to perfect the minimalist look!)! I’d like to finish my second book fast. I try to keep my investment knowledge up to date. There’s always something new to know.
Laughing about?
Hamish and Andy on 2DAYFM make me chuckle while I’m doing endless taxi runs with my daughter. The dog’s antics are a close second.
Reading?
I love novels, such as those by Geraldine Brooks and Anne Patchett’s Truth and Beauty – a story about how far you’re prepared to go for friendship. I also enjoy biographies and narrative non-fiction, such as Po Bronson’s books which are based on insights gleaned from stories of ordinary people. I read far too many magazines and books about finance and property but love a good fashion flick too. In between, I seek out new recipes to cook.
Wishing for…
More women to get to grips with their money in order to make the best choices. I hate seeing women struggle in isolation and hearing about financial hardship that could have been avoided if only they had understood the situation better.
Most interesting time in my life…
was going from a highly paid job in the finance service sector to a lowly paid job with a major charity. That year, I helped raise $1 million for the group while eating lamingtons with countrywomen, knocking on doors for funds and hanging out with a comedian who had also opted out to do something real and right for a period. I had to re-orient myself to living on a tight income and learn not to buy too much stuff. Everyone should consider a charity sabbatical or a career sea change!