By Tokiso TKay Nthebe
Nothing excites me more than money conversations—because, let’s be honest, money touches every part of our lives. Whether you acknowledge it or not, your financial decisions determine your quality of life. That’s why being intentional about your financial well-being is no longer optional—it’s essential.
As we step into the second quarter of the year, I hope you’ve shaken off the financial “hangover” from Q1. Now is the perfect time to reset, refocus, and take actionable steps to stop living from paycheque to paycheque.
Break the ‘More Month Than Money’ Cycle
It is disheartening to see salaries stagnating while the cost of living rises. According to FNB South Africa (2022), many people spend up to 80% of their salary within just five days of getting paid. That’s alarming—but not surprising.
The good news?
You can break the cycle. It won’t happen overnight, but with consistency and a plan, you can move from barely surviving to finally thriving.
Practical Steps to Take Back Control:
1. Track Every Loti
Start by calculating exactly how much you spend each month. This step is non-negotiable. List your expenses—from rent and transport to airtime and groceries. Then compare this to your income.
Tip: Use budgeting apps, a spreadsheet, or even pen and paper. The goal is clarity.
2. Cut Back or Earn More
Once you know where your money is going:
- Reduce non-essential spending—eating out, subscriptions, spontaneous shopping.
- If cutting isn’t enough, find creative ways to boost your income. Can you freelance? Tutor? Bake? Rent out a room? Your skills can make money.
As shared in The Reporter’s article “Do not cut down expenses, increase your income!”—if you can’t cut it, create it.
3. Start a Simple Savings Habit
Many people, including Basotho, say they don’t have enough to save. I get it—but here’s the truth: Not saving is costing you more. Saving is not about the amount—it’s about the discipline.
Start with LSL100 a month. Over time, work your way up to cover 3 to 6 months of expenses (e.g., LSL5,000 x 6 = LSL30,000). It’s not about how fast, but how faithfully you do it.
4. Tackle Debt Strategically
High-interest debts (credit cards, personal loans, store accounts) are silent wealth killers.
Create a repayment plan:
- Focus on paying off the most expensive debt first.
- Avoid taking on new debt unless absolutely necessary.
- Refinance or consolidate if you can negotiate better terms.
5. Work on the Root Cause – You
The biggest obstacle? It’s not the economy or your salary—it’s you. Your habits, your mindset, your decisions.
If you’re serious about change:
- Reassess your lifestyle. Do you need to downgrade temporarily?
- Say no to peer pressure. You don’t have to keep up with anyone.
- Rebuild your relationship with money. Learn. Reflect. Adjust.
You need to make changes to see changes (Spotebi.com)
Final Thoughts: Progress Over Perfection
Financial transformation takes time, but it begins with a decision—to be intentional, to be different, and to believe that you are worthy of financial peace.
Every small step you take today brings you closer to freedom tomorrow. Start now. You’ve got this.
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
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