When I was a teenager, my parents nearly had a meltdown because I spent $8 on a box of pencils. The reaction was so intense that it’s stuck with me to this day. Looking back now, I realise they weren’t just angry about the pencils—they were overwhelmed by a lifetime of financial stress. This experience shaped how I see money and, ultimately, led me to become a financial planner. I’m sharing this story to help others avoid the same patterns and struggles I grew up with.
Growing Up on a Sheep Farm in Country Victoria
I grew up in rural Victoria, on a sheep farm where life was defined by long days and hard work. There was no steady income from week to week, and we never knew if we’d have a good season. Droughts, fluctuating wool prices, and the daily grind of farm work were constant challenges for my parents, who were under immense pressure to make things work.
To give you a sense of what that meant, they often relied on loans from family just to keep things going. My parents worked hard—there was never any shortage of effort or sacrifice—but the financial rewards were modest, to say the least.
The Pencil Incident
At 16, I was given $10 by my parents to buy a single pencil for school. I walked to the local newsagency, hoping to grab one and bring back the change. Unfortunately, they didn’t sell single pencils—only boxes. The box cost $8, so I thought, “Close enough, I’ll get this box and save us another trip later.”
I brought the box home, expecting a simple “thank you” or even a shrug. Instead, I got a full-on freak-out. My parents went into an extended lecture about waste, respect for money, and how I clearly didn’t appreciate the value of a dollar. I remember standing there, feeling confused and embarrassed, wondering why they were so upset over what seemed like a small purchase.
At the time, it felt completely unfair. I couldn’t understand why they’d overreacted, especially when I thought I’d made a sensible decision. It wasn’t until later, when I was out of the house and had gained more perspective, that I started to piece together the real reason behind their reaction.
Hindsight and Hard Realities
With a bit of hindsight, I came to understand their panic. My parents were not just worried about $8—they were struggling to keep the farm running, to meet basic expenses, and to pay off family loans. They were caught in a cycle of survival, doing everything they could to avoid falling deeper into debt. That box of pencils represented something bigger than school supplies; it symbolised money they couldn’t afford to spare.
Financial stress took a mental toll on them, even though they tried to shield me from it as much as possible. But that day, with the box of pencils, the weight of their financial worries burst out. I don’t blame them for it now, and I can see how it shaped my own beliefs about money.
Realising the Impact of Financial Stress on Families
Over the years, I’ve realised my story is far from unique. Financial stress isn’t limited to people on farms or in rural areas; it affects families everywhere. Now, as a financial planner, I see it all the time. About 80% of the millennials who come to me say they want to avoid the financial patterns they saw growing up. They don’t want to worry about bills, debate over small purchases, or feel constantly anxious about money. They want a better life for themselves and for future generations.
This is my “why.” It’s the reason I became a financial planner and why I’ve remained in the industry for over 13 years. I want to help people build financial security, not only for themselves but for generations to come. I believe that with the right guidance, anyone can break free from the scarcity mindset that holds so many families back.
From Scarcity to Stability: Helping Ambitious Accumulators
Working in financial planning, I have the privilege of guiding ambitious accumulators—people who are focused on building their wealth. My clients are determined to create a stable financial foundation, not just for themselves but for their families and future generations. They want to avoid the pain and worry that many of us saw our parents go through. They want to feel confident about their finances, not stressed or afraid.
My approach is not just about growing wealth; it’s about creating a secure, resilient future. When clients come to me, we work together to set clear goals, design strategies tailored to their needs, and build a plan that reflects their values and aspirations. Financial security isn’t just about numbers; it’s about freedom, peace of mind, and knowing that you’re prepared for whatever life brings.
If This Story Resonates, Let’s Chat
If you grew up in a family where money was tight, or if you’ve felt that same stress yourself, you’re not alone. Money doesn’t have to be a source of fear or conflict. By taking control of your finances, you can break free from scarcity and start building a secure, prosperous future. I’ve seen firsthand how financial planning changes lives, and I’m here to help guide you through it.
Together, we can work towards a financial future that’s stable, empowering, and sustainable for the long term.
P.S.: If you’ve been carrying that worry and stress, like my parents did, remember that it’s okay to reach out for help. Financial planning doesn’t have to be daunting. You’re not alone on this journey.
