The Power of Authenticity
Why you can and should be prioritising your personal goals!
In South Africa, the concept of Ubuntu – “I am because we are” – deeply influences our way of life. This sense of community and mutual support is woven into the fabric of our society, guiding our actions and priorities. However, while this cultural emphasis on family and community support is a beautiful and vital part of our identity, it can sometimes lead to neglecting personal financial health and goal setting.
Ultimately, to be able to live out Ubuntu, we first need to ensure our own stability and well-being. This is where the power of authenticity comes into play. Authenticity means being true to yourself. To be authentic you need to be honest with yourself about where you are, where you want to be and how you are going to get there. When it comes to personal finances, this starts with being real about your financial situation – knowing your income, expenses, debt and commitments.
The second step is about being honest with yourself about your financial limitations and potential. This includes overcommitting to others at the expense of your financial health. The final step is to acknowledge and prioritise your own financial needs and goals. Prioritising yourself doesn’t mean you are selfish; it means you are ensuring that you can support yourself and others sustainably without compromising your financial health.
HOW TO PRIORITISE PERSONAL GOALS
Ask yourself what financial success looks like for you. This could include saving for a home, education, retirement or a specific project.
Prioritising your own financial stability and personal goals doesn’t mean neglecting your cultural values of family support. Instead, it ensures that you can continue to provide support without compromising your well-being. By being authentic and honest in your financial management, you build a sustainable future for yourself and create a strong foundation to support those you care about in the long run.
By prioritising your personal finances and goals, you can lead a fulfilling life while continuing to uplift those around you.
