24/08/2026
The financial rules/beliefs I've changed since turning 35
I'm 37 now, and looking back at the beliefs I've let go of over the last couple of years…
1. Debt-free is not my highest priority.
I stopped looking at debt as something to be ashamed of. I treat it like a number — I don't feel guilty or "less than" because of it. I look at it as a tool, and the real question is how it can work for me. If mega corporations can have billions of debt and not feel ashamed then so can I.
Some of our clients take on debt for lifestyle goals, and it doesn't derail their wealth creation. Surprised? Please don't take this as a permission slip to go get a new credit card though 😂
2. Giving people money doesn't actually help them.
I don't believe it solves the real problem. Most of the time it just enables the same behaviour instead of changing it. I'd rather help through education, an introduction/referral, or by buying someone's product or service. Not handing over cash for nothing.
3. Most luxury goods are wildly overpriced and don't deliver on style, quality, or comfort.
I'm far more selective these days with designer spending. I've become much more interested in art 🖼️ — it's a purchase that keeps giving me joy for years. The other place I love spending is on our home decor or accessories. New set of fry pans that makes cooking so much more enjoyable, George Jensen candleholder for the table centre piece, or a luxury soft bed throw (actually I am saving up for this one). Much bigger ROI, because I actually use it every day.
4. Home ownership does not equal success.
I've run the numbers so many times, for myself and for clients — it's wild how much money goes into an asset that's really just for lifestyle. Will I own my house one day? Probably. I'm just not in a rush to get there.
5. I'm no longer all-in on active fund management.
I used to only use active managers in my own portfolio. As I've grown more experienced and confident, I've added passively managed funds in too — and it hasn't cost me any sleep. Yet.
What financial rule or belief have you changed recently?