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FIREside chat with Natalie Scott: "I have a monthly money date"

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FIREside chat with Natalie Scott: "I have a monthly money date"

Hi! Could you introduce yourself?

I’m Natalie Scott, a Certified Money Coach, who specialises in mindset. My ethos is to educate, elevate and empower people with the right tools and resources to save, invest, earn more money and banish their limiting beliefs. I have a personal finance platform Natalie Scott Empowers where I post weekly content!

 

Which personality type did you get? Did you find the results to be accurate?

The Explorer: Savvy Spender. Wow the test got my money personality down to a T, can’t say I agree with the ‘not so good stuff’ though!

What inspired you to start a social media presence about personal finance? For completely new readers, what is the “tl;dr” of your brand?

After making one financial post and the engagement blowing up, I knew this is what my audience wanted more of, so I continued. Having worked in the fashion industry I saw a lot of people throwing their wages to fashion, living paycheque to paycheque and having no savings to show for themselves. I knew speaking about this online was the best way to raise awareness and it did!

My brand focuses on educating, elevating and empowering Millennials and Gen Z on their personal finance journey!

What is your relationship with personal finance? - If applicable, how has that defined your current pursuits? What changes have you made that have helped? How has it changed over time?

I used to describe myself as an avid saver, until I realised I was more of a hoarder. (Someone who saves/collects money and never spends it). This led to me having impulse splurges which always did more harm than good. I knew this yolo attitude towards my finances wasn’t sustainable so I gradually changed it. I created several money pots (fun fund included) and separated money with different accounts. This eradicated any guilt I had with spending my money and saving it.

What’s the worst money advice you’ve ever received?

Someone suggested throwing all of my savings into a random crypto! I DIDN’T! Never take advice from anyone who hasn’t done what they’ve suggested.

Also someone told me, putting your money into a savings account is the best place for it...erm my guess is no one ever told them about the beauty of investing!

Is there a specific financial goal you are working towards right now? What steps are you taking to achieve that goal?

I like to give myself saving goals each year. This year was £10K and I managed to reach that in September. I’d like another £10K by the end of Summer, let’s see!

What do you most enjoy spending on? Or any guilty pleasure you can share.

I live for experiences!!! I love a good holiday (can’t wait to get on a plane), the theatre and eating out. (I will always turn down drinks for dinner every time)!

How often do you check your finances?

Definitely check my bank account once a day, I’m nosey and like to see what’s going on, even if there’s no update hahaha.

I evaluate my finances every month by having an intense wealth date. This consists of updating by net worth, planning for the month ahead and checking my investments.

 

What specific tips would you have for someone who is starting completely new to personal finance?

Get into the habit of paying yourself first (PYF). Whatever you earn, always treat yourself like a bill and pay into your future self (this could be a house fund, holiday etc). 

Make sure you have an emergency fund, no matter what. Generally 3-6 months of your expenses. This gives you a financial cushion if an emergency occurs or if you want to quit your job.

Oh and never ever opt out of your workplace pension, you’re literally saying bye to free money!

What's your stack? (Accounts, credit cards, apps or other tools)

Budgeting: I’m an old school girl and love to use my Google sheets for my finances. Although, I have heard great things about the Emma app and would recommend it.

Everyday: I love Monzo for separating my money and for their incredible pots that keep me on track.

I’m currently loving the Juno app, it’s literally the duolingo of finances and goes through every financial hoop we’d ever need. From an emergency fund, to buying your first home, it’s all there!

Investing: Trading 212, HL

Saving: Premium Bonds

Cashback: Quidco

Credit: Check My File

Follow Natalie on Instagram: @nataliescottempowers


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