Real Stories: Saro
What colour are you wearing?
Equity! I love this colour!
What do you think is the biggest financial challenge facing women?
The gender pay gap, particularly when considering the amount of unpaid labour women typically carry which results in a large discrepancy when it comes to retirement savings and super. Also to function (not even thrive) as a woman is just more expensive. For example, the fact we have to pay tax on sanitary products or that seeing a gynecologist costs hundreds of dollars is wild to me.
Who taught you about money growing up? Was it discussed in your family?
Oddly I have now had to teach myself as an adult. It wasn't discussed as much as I wish it was growing up. I wish personal finances were taught more at school. I find it strange that I was taught to differentiate equations but not how to do my personal tax...
At what age did you become financially independent?
I think 22? That's when I moved out of home.
What advice do you wish you could have given your younger self regarding money?
I wish I'd seen a financial advisor the second I started working full time and made a more thought out plan rather than trail and erroring my way through my finances. For a long time I thought financial literacy was just a talent some people had but it's a sk
Do you feel in control of your money and spending?
More so recently as I've gotten older, yes. But they've definitely been some unexpected experiences that have taught me some good lessons.
“For a long time I thought financial literacy was just a talent some people had but it’s a skill that needs to be taught and cultivated somewhat constantly.”
Do you have any stories of money regrets?
Not really regrets. Although I'm still working towards being financially where I want to be.. But I've learnt a lot about myself. I wish though I'd advocated and negotiated more for salaries, even when I started. I think often for women we're taught (either consciously or subconsciously) to just be thankful for what recieve and then end up being under paid for roles, jobs or opportunities because it's seen as 'aggressive' or 'bossy' (or insert any other ridiculous stereotype) when we actually push for what we need and deserve.
Do you worry about money?
Yes unfortunately, but I'm trying my best to change that!