By Tokiso TKay Nthebe
Introduction: Why Financial Preparedness Matters More Than Ever
Retrenchment is no longer a distant risk. In 2025, many professionals—especially those in NGOs and donor-funded projects—have faced unexpected job losses due to funding cuts.
The ripple effect?
Financial strain on families, communities, and local economies. But while you can’t always control external events, you can control how prepared you are.
The “Starve Yourself” Mindset: What Trevor Noah Taught Us
In an episode of his podcast What Now?, Trevor Noah shared how he proactively prepared to leave The Daily Show while embracing the experience.
He called it “learning to starve yourself“– not in the literal sense, but in being disciplined when you do not have to.
Why?
To give yourself freedom and options when life changes.
“Things can end anytime. How many of us can truly say we’ve exercised our choice to end the thing when we could?” – Trevor Noah
What Does It Mean to ‘Starve Yourself’ Financially?
It’s about practicing intentional frugality to build resilience. Here’s how:
Build an emergency fund (at least 3–6 months of expenses).
Cut back on non-essential spending and fight lifestyle inflation.
Invest in new skills to stay competitive.
Always have an exit plan—side hustle, freelance skills, or alternative career paths
Don’t delay personal dreams or depend entirely on one job or income source.
Why This Matters for NGO and Donor-Funded Professionals
Working in development sectors or foreign-aid-funded programs can feel stable—until it’s not.
If you’re in a high-risk sector:
- Begin reviewing your financial obligations today.
- Evaluate income diversification opportunities.
- Start conversations about future plans and goals now.
Final Thoughts: Choose Preparedness Over Panic
Financial wellness isn’t about fear—it’s about freedom.
By adopting a mindset of restraint, planning, and purpose, you prepare yourself to leave any situation—job, relationship, or business—on your own terms.
Start small. But start now.
Stay Trailblazing.
Related Resources:
Watch Trevor Noah’s Podcast Episode
Join the TKO Financial Wellness WhatsApp Channel for weekly money tips
Tokiso TKay Nthebe is an author, podcast host, financial coach and lead advisor at TKO Financial Wellness & Advisory who is passionate about financial wellness, education and financial planning.
For more visit www.tkofinancialwellness.com or email info@tkofinancialwellness.com
