Book review 2: Welcome to Financial Freedom Ntando Maseko

Financial freedom is a very important aspect of our lives because it has a direct and positive impact on our overall wellness. 

Wellness is not only informed by healthy-living: it is also reflected in how we show up daily as our best selves. Sometimes, showing up as your best self begins with making financial wellness a priority. 

This is a disclaimer to clarify that I am not a financial expert or financial wellness coach. This reflection is based on reading, contextualizing and personal experience. However, I do recommend reading Welcome to Financial Freedom and consulting financial experts for further engagement on the subject. 

Finances–and financial freedom–are subjects that require our attention and active involvement. Conversations about money can be very unsettling because they often require transparency. Transparency around finances often traces back to one’s upbringing, because our environments shape how we manage our money. 

We learn financial habits through observation. More often than not, being exposed to unhealthy financial habits produces recklessness. Similarly, growing around lack deeply affects how one approaches money and financial decision-making. 

In many instances, the greatest challenge people face with finances is shame. Shame  prevents people from seeking out help because of the belief that the cycle will never break. Shame also shows up as embarrassment about struggling to manage your finances or carrying debt. 

In truth, you are not alone–perhaps it is time to set yourself free from this shame. Like many aspects of life, change begins with acceptance. Accepting that you need help. Accepting that unhealthy financial habits must be unlearned. These habits are often rooted in lack and uninformed decisions. 

Your enlightened self has access to resources and the capacity to make better choices. 

While changes can be uncomfortable, it is necessary for your growth. 

Ntando Maseko captures this beautifully in his book by highlighting key principles: 

1. Managing your credit profile as best as you can 

2. Taking charge of your mornings 

Managing your credit profile as best as you can 

Managing your credit profile is a critical aspect of financial wellness, although it can be difficult to implement. In African societies, black tax has significantly affected many people’s credit profiles. The burden of being breadwinners at an early age often led to financial decisions made under pressure and without adequate information. Later resulting in compromised credit records. 

In today’s age of information and exposure, we have the opportunity to change this. With the support of financial coaches and experts, we can begin rebuilding without carrying the shame of having supported our families. The conversation then shifts towards implementing healthy financial habits within our homes and communities. 

Taking charge of your mornings 

Earlier, I  mentioned the link between wellness and financial health. One way to cultivate this  connection is by taking charge of your mornings. Mornings carry hope, promise and the possibility of new beginnings. They often set the tone for how the rest of the day unfolds. 

Incorporating  simple principles such as  meditation, exercise or prayer can be invaluable. When  we are centred, we grant ourselves the grace and clarity to make decisions that can change our lives permanently. 

Sometimes, something as simple as a morning walk to clear your mind can prompt you to seek guidance from a financial advisor–opening the door to financial wellness. 

I hope you choose to cultivate financially healthy habits this year.

Book 2 of 2026.

Powerful, insightful and informative. 

Phiwe Mncwabe is a pan-African storyteller, blogger and founder of Botlhale Hub Afrika.

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