How to plan your finances and investments – The Worksheet
What would you like your income statement to look like? We don’t need to tell you to stop spending and start saving, you already know that. Whenever you go an a spending spree, you’ll definitely feel a pang of purchasing remorse, and even feel much worse when your bank statement arrives at the end of the month. You don’t necessarily need a banker to help you manage your expenses, it is impossible to save and invest, if you don’t have the surplus to save and invest. So how do you create capacity, manage your obligations, and achieve your financial goals? This worksheet will inform you of your funding needs and help you reach your investment goals. Topics this guide will cover: Identifying your investment goals Financial questions every woman asks themselves Personal income statement With the aid of this worksheet generated from our webinar with Samke on managing your personal finance and investments you’ll be able to identify your financial inflows and outflows and also strategize towards planning your finances. To have access to this worksheet, fill the form below to join our community and also get access to amazing weekly contents from us. [ninja_forms id=113]
Is your personal growth stunted? 5 signs that it might be
[bctt tweet=”Sometimes we get stuck because we haven’t learned anything new, these tips should help” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] What to do when you’ve lost your mojo We all want to become the best we can be. But what happens when you’ve lost your mojo? There’s a chance that your personal growth might be stunted. There’s no shame in that, it happens to the best of us: sometimes you just get stuck and it feels gross. Here are some signs to help you tell, and some quick simple ways to overcome it. 1. You’re really comfortable right now Life is fine. Like, just fine. Everything is just okay. You’ve got a good steady rhythm at home, at work and in your relationships but it’s been steady like that for A WHILE… to the point of standing still. You look around you and feel the buzz around you, but you’re on the outside. While being in this position isn’t necessarily bad, it’s not amazing either. It’s just —you guessed it— fine. You’ve stopped growing. Ask yourself: When did I last get excited about creating something new and of real value? If you’re struggling to find an answer, it’s time to change. Why not take on a new challenge? Join a society at university, or a network at work. Volunteer at a local charity that your care about or look for opportunities to give your skills to budding entrepreneurs. All you have to do is reach out and ask —over the phone, in person or using social media. It’s all there ready and waiting for you. 2. You’re bored at work Even when we’re in our dream jobs, work can sometimes be less than glamorous. There’s always that one activity that you’d rather skip. When you face this boredom or frustration you need to…. Ask yourself: Is it time to move on, or do I just need to do something different where I am? Next, have a conversation. With your boss, your manager or your team (if you are the boss/manager) about new opportunities or projects that you can try out. Of course, the way you ask depends on your role at work, so take that into consideration. Once you’ve identified these new personal growth goals you can set monthly or weekly goals to drive your progress. Many of us make great 1-5 year plans but struggle to translate them into our daily hustles. 3. You don’t leave conversations feeling inspired, motivated or energized You can’t remember the last time you learned anything of value, every conversation feels the same. I get it, it’s happened to me before. But too many people blame others, they claim that there aren’t ‘enough people to have intelligent conversation’ with. Well, before you blame others for anything in life, always look at yourself. Be the change you want to see in the world. Ask yourself: What do I bring to the table? If you’ve followed personal growth steps 1 & 2 above, you may eventually have something new to bring to your conversations. Once you’ve done that, you can start planning how you expand your horizons and your network. The age-old saying goes, ‘your network is your networth’ and if you haven’t made any new friends lately, maybe it’s time to go to an event, #SheHive or conference to get the conversational juices flowing again. [bctt tweet=”Before you blame others for anything in life, always look at yourself” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] 4. You know as much as you did yesterday, and the day before that… and the day before that Sometimes we get stuck because we haven’t learned anything new. Personal growth involves your body AND your brain. We all have our niche —whether it’s fashion, tech, finance, politics or anything in between. But we can all benefit from knowing a little bit of everything across the board. Some employers call this being a ‘t-shaped’ person, someone who has deep knowledge in a few areas and broad knowledge across many others. These types of people can work well in many situations and are typically more employable. Ask yourself: When was the last time I learned anything new? The good news is that in the age of Google, a lot of information is $free.99 – shout out to SLA for this free guide right here. You can learn most of the basics on a shoestring budget, or no budget at all. What have you got to lose? 5. You lack energy and feel sluggish Sluggish. What a word, sounds horrible right? You might feel chronically tired, or that you’re living life in slow motion. Sometimes this is because you’ve been working too damn hard, but other times it’s caused by the fact that you aren’t doing much at all. If it’s the latter, the final thing you can do to boost your personal growth is actually get moving. Ask yourself: How can I shake up my routine in some way? This might be something really small like changing the route you take to work or your night-time beauty routine. It could also mean becoming more active. YES, I do mean going to the gym, joining a sports team or doing a class. A little sweat never hurt anyone! It sounds kind of crazy, but the more you work out, the more energy you have for other areas in your life. So, no excuses. Try these recommendations out and let us know how they work for you. Doing something new is scary, but life begins outside of your comfort zone. So does personal growth. You’ll be challenged in a new way, and you’ll develop into a more well-rounded person in the process.
The Shine Theory: What it is and why you need it.
[bctt tweet=”Building friendships with accomplished women is great for your business & personal network” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] What is your first thought when you get introduced to another woman? ‘She’s pretty but maybe not as pretty as me?’ or ‘Gosh, I wish my edges were that laid’ perhaps ‘Who is this? Does she think I’m cool?’ Whether it’s involuntary or not we tend to have a train of thought that borders on the competitive when we meet someone new. It even happens with people we do know, hearing good news about a friend’s new promotion or engagement can sometimes make us feel a little left behind. Well the Shine Theory, advocated by Anne Friedman, challenges you to flip the script. The basic premise is that when you meet an intimidatingly successful bad ass woman, instead of letting that little voice in your head tell you that you should feel inferior or even intimidated, send it back where it came from and befriend her! Friedman explains, ‘Surrounding yourself with the best people doesn’t make you look worse by comparison. It makes you better.’ Why the Shine Theory? We live in a society that constantly pits women against each other, as if we can’t imagine a world where two successful women can exist without being competitors. The Shine Theory encourages us to surround ourselves with women who are successful and to encourage these successes. How can we not want to see the women around us flourish and do the most? After all, we are the company we keep. But does the Shine Theory actually work? It has been tried and tested by the women in the Obama Administration with the effects fostering an important change in the way women treat each other in the workplace. It has been a long time coming but it is definitely time to change the narrative that women cannot exist in the same space without being pitted against one another. So how can you practice the Shine Theory? Well, charity does start at home. How we see and treat others is based on how we see and treat ourselves. A little self-love and self-confidence goes a long way. When you recognise your potential and your unique path, you’re less likely to compare yourself to others and resent their accomplishments. It is important to ask yourself why you instinctively take a negative approach to meeting someone new. How do you feel about yourself, your career and happiness? Your answers to this will generally reflect how you ultimately treat others. Convinced? Here’s how to start. The Shine Theory can easily be done with our friends and general social circle but it is not just limited to seeing our inner circle flourish. It is also key to make an effort when we meet someone who potentially intimidates you. This isn’t a ‘fake it till you like her’ situation. Be genuine and honest with your friendships and acquaintances, be part of a BOSS community that encourages and thrives off each other’s success.Whether it’s a tweet of encouragement or creating platforms that support another woman’s business, the Shine Theory allows all those involved to bask in each other’s sparkle. Building friendships with more accomplished women is great for building your business relationships and your personal networks. Who knows? That seemingly intimidating woman could be you next business partner. More significantly, you gain you a strong support system that pushes you to be the best version of yourself. We need friends that are smart, confident and kick-ass women who dish out the best advice and inspire us daily. Create and foster friendships based on mutual appreciation and respect in seeing each other’s triumphs as a celebration for all.
Webinar with Samke Mhlongo-Ngwenya: Planning your personal finance and investments (Mar 23)
It doesn’t matter if you’re making a little or baller is your middle name, we all have to deal with important money matters such as investments and personal finance. If you’re climbing the corporate ladder, trying to launch your own business, or managing your family independently, join us on Thursday March 23rd as we discuss personal finance and investment options for young women. We’ll be chatting with Samke Mhlongo-Ngwenya, one of South Africa’s most recognized personal finance experts who offers one-on-one personal finance consultations through her company TNC Wealth. Samke obtained her expertise in debt management and wealth creation during her 7-year tenure as a private banker, now she engages in corporate speaking, panel moderation, career management and women’s issues as well. Register below to get the exclusive link to the webinar. Some of the topics we’ll cover: What you need to understand about investments 3 financial questions every woman should ask herself Planning a budget Top 3 things to look out for when selecting an investment advisor Identifying your investment goals (safety, income and growth) Webinar Details: Date: Thursday March 23rd, 2017 Time: 12:00pm Lagos // 1:00pm Johannesburg // 2:00pm Nairobi About Samke Referred to by CNBC Africa as a “personal finance goddess”, Samke Mhlongo-Ngwenya is not just a personal finance expert, but also the youngest board member of State-owned mineral technology research council MINTEK, and founder of The Next Chapter “TNC” (coming soon) – Wealth Partners. Samke is also a personal finance consultant, corporate speaker, thought leader, media commentator, and financial inclusion advocate. Armed with an Accounting degree from the University of Cape Town, a Postgraduate Diploma in Management from Wits Business School, and an MBA from the same college completed with a research report titled “Factors contributing to over-indebtedness in black South African females”, Samke aspires to continue developing content that educates, entertains and empowers her audience.
Jacqueline Shaw: Pioneering a movement for “fashion made in Africa”
[bctt tweet=”I was inspired by the possibility of creating something new @jacquelineMshaw” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] Jacqueline Shaw is the Founding Director of Africa Fashion Guide (AFG), a social enterprise and fashion sourcing agency. She has worked and designed for various fashion companies around the world. Companies such as PUMA, Russell Athletic, Ocean Pacific, Fila and Chilli Pepper to name a few. AFG is a unique platform that promotes and supports the supply chain of Africa’s fashion and textile industry. AFG supports SME’s by offering online courses providing them with relevant skills, knowledge, understanding and opportunities to network in the African market. Jacqueline is also a published author. She wrote, curated, produced and self-published the coffee table book “FASHION AFRICA- The Visual Overview Of Contemporary African Fashion”. The book launched at The Fashion Africa Conference, which brought together key industry leaders from African fashion and ethical fashion. Since the conference’s launch, there’s been an array of high-street brands and retailers such as ASOS, H&M, NEW ERA as well as press including Financial Times, Guardian and more attending this conference. SLA contributor Neo Cheda recently met up with Jacqueline and here’s what Jacqueline had to say. What inspired you to get involved in this industry? I have always loved textiles and as a child, I used to sew and make clothes for my toys from scraps of fabric. I believe I was inspired by the possibility of creating something out of something else. Getting close up to hand-made textiles for me was a dream. I feel some textiles should not be cut or passed down but celebrated with stories for generations to keep their craft alive. What would you say is the innovative idea behind Africa Fashion Guide? We are a team of disruptive innovators. As a recent CNN Africa report said, “A disruptive innovation is an innovation that shakes up an existing market”. I have worked in a market dominated by Asia and am presenting a new market to this industry, one that has been overlooked and considered “dark”, “poor”, “bad in quality”, and “unable to perform”. I believe that Africa is a continent of future leaders. Hence at Africa Fashion Guide, we have pioneered a movement for “fashion made in Africa” and not just that but ethically, sustainably and responsibly. What challenges have you faced in the fashion industry? Fashion in itself is an industry that takes a lot more than it gives. One really has to prove themselves and that can take years. But above all, you have to maintain the belief in yourself to do well as you can face a lot of rejections too. There are also general challenges of systems and finance invested to support the industry. I found that working out of the continent, I am challenged to persuade the general industry of the African opportunity and to get them to invest in that. [bctt tweet=”Fashion in itself is an industry that takes a lot more than it gives – Jacqueline Shaw” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] How have you managed to stay the champions within Africa’s fashion supply chain? We do not do fashion shows but we are here to talk business and to get the message across that Africa is, has been and will always be open for the fashion business. We have also focused on sustainability. I personally made it my effort to research, investigate and network with this community. I am even called to talk about this internationally. With a Masters in Ethical Fashion and then completing an MSc in Social Research, I understand the importance of understanding the market and sustaining that market through responsible sourcing. Lastly, because we are consistent in what we do, we have gathered a strong following and a lot of respect too. We are not newbies to the field but have spent time digging deep to build the right foundation for building up our company. [bctt tweet=”@jacquelineMshaw here to talk business & let people know that Africa is open for fashion ” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] Advice to young women looking to venture into the fashion world: Network: Build a strong community of people, supporters, mentors and those with skills you don’t have. Always be willing to learn, be humble and know that real wisdom comes from acknowledging that you don’t know everything. Grow a steel spine because there’s a lot you will have to overlook and ignore. Many opinions could make or break you but the key is to believe in yourself. Read up on everything to do with your craft whilst perfecting it because as a mentor once told me, “The best leaders are the biggest readers”. If you’d like to share your story with She Leads Africa, let us know more about you and your story here.
Make the most of yearly sales: The Guide
Ready to have the best sales year ever? “There is only one boss: the customer. And he can fire everyone in the company, simply by spending his money somewhere else”. This statement by Sam Walton is so true and clearly shows the importance of customers. To make the most sales, you should be able to understand what your customer’s needs are and take note of demanding trends in your niche. As a Motherland Mogul, you also need to know what time of the year to contact your suppliers, when to market your products and what you should do differently from your competitors. This guide breaks down the year with juicy tips on what you should be buying/selling each month in relation to the demand and the world market at large. It’s designed to be useful to both business owners and the savvy women who want to know what’s happening in the sales world. Topics this guide will cover: The best times to buy and when to sell, How to reap maximum sales from customers, and The consumer’s guide to smart purchasing With the aid of this guide, you should not only outsmart your competitors but also update your sales board like never before. Getting access to this guide is easy: just fill out the form below to join our community and get access to this guide, as well as AWESOME weekly content. [ninja_forms id=91]
How I improve my career resolutions
Are you one of those people who get goosebumps when the thought of their career goals strikes? Or do you have goals in place but it’s just not working?? It’s time to get to business. While you’re making resolutions to work out 3 days a week or stop negative self-talk, why not make a resolution to also invest in yourself and grow your career? 2017 should be your year of growth- financially, emotionally, and professionally. Since most of us spend a majority of our time at work, changing your career could directly affect personal growth in other areas of your life. Meaning, if you have a good day at work and feel professionally motivated, that evening workout and morning pep talk will be much easier to accomplish. This guide will provide you with some ideas on how to improve your work life and walk into your job every day like a boss (literally or figuratively). Topics this guide will cover: Loving your job and changing your attitude to set your 2017 up for success Sharpening your skills and investing in yourself in order to promote growth Taking control over your destiny and working towards your passion How to make sure you stick to your resolutions and turn 2017 into your year Use this guide to reach your career resolutions. Getting access to this guide is easy: just fill out the form below to join our community and get access to this guide, as well as AWESOME weekly content. [ninja_forms id=94]
6 W Words for Ignition: The Guide
Are you one of those people who get goosebumps when the thought of their career goals strikes? Or do you have goals in place but it’s just not working?? Identifying yourself and making career decisions can be daunting, to be honest. You are in this place where you feel you are just living and taking the day as it comes but with no specific plan or destination. It’s actually worse if your friends seem to have it together and know where they are heading and you have nothing to talk about. So what we have for you in this guide is something that will help you put your plans together. It’s basically some of the questions you should ask yourself when you jot goals and organise your life. At the end of this, you will be proud of what you do. Topics this guide will cover: The questions you should be asking yourself, Motherland Mogul tips, including discovering your purpose, and Eliminating things that do not move you towards your goal Is this you right now? This guide is there to make a turn around to your position and help you kick start a great career. Getting access to this guide is easy: just fill out the form below to join our community and get access to this guide, as well as AWESOME weekly content. [ninja_forms id=79]
Email course: 3 secrets to #SLAYing2017
Happy New Year! If you’re like us, you’re sick and tired of hearing “New Year, New Me!” and seeing zero changes. So how do you move from simply speaking what you want into the universe to actually moving things? We hereby introduce SLA’s exclusive email course: 3 Secrets to #SLAYing2017. How does it work? It’s simple Sign up to join our list and receive lessons directly to your email (scroll to the bottom for the form). Each lesson will come with practical advice and assignments. Yes, homework! We’re absolutely serious about making sure you really achieve those goals you’re aiming for. Do your homework, follow our candid advice and SLAY 2017 like the Motherland Mogul we know you are. When we say secret, we mean secret. So even if you’re part of our community, you still need to sign up to receive this email course. Help us spread the word: Help us spread the word about this event and you could win a Motherland Mogul or Boss T-Shirt! To qualify for this, you must be based in Lagos. Sorry, shipping’s expensive! Not in Lagos? Still spread the word & win SLA brownie points! [bctt tweet=”@SheLeadsAfrica is hosting an email course on making and achieving goals #SLAYing2017 Sign up here ” via=”no”] Not sure this course is for you? Here’s what to expect: Why New Year’s Resolutions fail. The differences between resolutions and goals and why goals are better. How to set SMART goals that you’ll work on achieving throughout the year. How to find an accountability partner. Why it’s okay to procrastinate (within reason). Worksheets to help you complete each assignment. This course won’t be available anywhere else outside your inbox. So sign up below to start #SLAYing2017 and join our community. [ninja_form id=76]
Career insights from Mo Abudu
[bctt tweet=”To be an entrepreneur, know that bright ideas are great & more wisdom from Mo Abudu” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] I believe Africa is blessed with many talented women from different industries and each has managed to carve a niche in their respected fields. Mo Abudu is one of those women who has broken the “glass ceiling” concept and risen above the perception that just because you are a woman you can’t advance higher. Mosunmola “Mo” Abudu is a 50 year old successful Entrepreneur, Media Personality, Talk Show Host, TV producer, Human Resource Consultant and founder of EbonyLife TV. She is described by Forbes as one of “Africa’s most successful women” and by CNN as the “African Oprah.” She was born in the UK and holds a Master’s degree in Human Resource Management from the University of Westminster, London. Her career started in 1987 when she worked as a Recruitment Officer. Since then she has worked with companies like Starform Group and Exxon Mobil (formerly known as Esso Exploration and Production Nigeria). In 2000, she started a privately owned HR development company called Vic Lawrence & Associates Limited (VLA). Mo Abudu is the executive producer and host of TV show Moments with Mo. She is the creator and executive producer of The Debates —a reality TV show with the aim of giving Africa a voice and is also the founder of The Inspire Africa Foundation. Mo has managed to create an image for herself in the media industry; she is known as the leader in the television industry. With all these appellations and accolades, African ladies sure have a lot to learn from her. Every lady envisions success. You grow up striving to be successful not just in your career but in your family and relationships. But success isn’t something that comes from sitting down all day doing nothing. It doesn’t come from lazing around and daydreaming either. [bctt tweet=”Execution is everything, amazing career insight from Mo Abudu” username=”SheLeadsAfrica”] Rather it’s the combined effort of hard work and determination that sets the motion for success. Shonda Rhimes said, “Dreams are lovely. But they are just dreams. Fleeting, ephemeral, pretty. But dreams do not come true because you dream them. It is hard work that makes things happen. It’s hard work that creates change.” 1. Execution “Anyone who wishes to be an entrepreneur must know that bright ideas are great, however, that is not even half of the work; execution is everything.” – Mo Abudu Mo does not joke with any one of her projects; whenever an idea comes to mind, she puts her all in order to bring it to fruition. Her advice to upcoming entrepreneurs is to be ready to do twice the work for half the usual reward. 2. Having the right information It goes without saying that “knowledge is power.” How much info do you have on your chosen career path? Do you have adequate info or are you still going around in circles? It’s necessary that you garner as much information as possible before venturing into any career. 3. Age is just a number Mo Abudu said “I’ve been a brand ambassador for Nigeria since I was age 11. Growing up in the U.K, I’ve had to defend Nigeria and when I was 40, I finally woke up and decided to do something, and that’s how the talk show came about.” We’re all familiar with the saying “age is just a number” but often times this applies to marriages. George Eliot said it is never too late to be what you might have been. With Mo Abudu age is definitely nothing but a number. At 52, she’s still letting the world know that she’s got a lot to offer Africa and that age doesn’t stand as a barrier. 4. Drive and Passion If there’s one thing that makes Mo stand out, it is her passion for giving Africa a voice. For aspiring entrepreneurs, it’s good to be passionate about your career because that will motivate you even when you don’t feel like working. In an interview with Variety Mo said, “I don’t really see my work as work…I just love what I do.” So ladies, there you have it, some of Mo’s career insights into being successful. It’s good to dream but it’s much better if you work your way into achieving them.