Money isn't just about numbers; it's about the stories we tell ourselves, the emotions that drive our decisions, and the beliefs we've carried since childhood. In this eye-opening conversation with award-winning finance expert Natasha Janssens, we explore the fascinating world of money psychology and why understanding your emotional relationship with money matters more than any investment strategy. Natasha Janssens is the author of Wonder Woman’s Guide to Money, a multi-award-winning finance expert and a regular contributor in the media. She is a qualified accountant, mortgage broker, behavioural money coach and ex-financial planner with over 20 years of experience. From childhood trauma to scammer vulnerabilities, Natasha reveals how our past shapes our financial future and provides practical tools to rewrite our money story.
Key Takeaways
Your Money Story Shapes Everything
The beliefs you formed about money in childhood, whether from experiencing scarcity, hearing "money doesn't grow on trees," or watching how your parents handled stress, continue to drive your financial decisions today. Start by writing your "money bio" to uncover these patterns and challenge beliefs that no longer serve you.
Emotions Trump Logic in Financial Decisions
While we think money decisions are logical, neuroscience shows that the emotional, instinctual parts of our brain make decisions faster than our rational mind. Learning to slow down and engage your logical brain before making financial choices is crucial for long-term wealth building.
Women Face Unique Vulnerabilities
Scammers specifically target women in their 50s by exploiting fears about retirement security. Building confidence in your financial capabilities and trusting your instincts are your best defences. Remember: if someone pressures you to make quick decisions about money, it's likely a red flag.
Take Time with Major Financial Events
Whether facing divorce, inheritance, death of a spouse, or retirement, resist pressure to make immediate investment decisions. Put lump sums in term deposits or high-interest savings accounts while you process and plan. Sometimes, doing nothing is the smartest financial move.
You're More Capable Than You Think
Many women who believe they're "bad with money" are actually incredibly resourceful and capable. Don't delegate away all financial decisions—even with advisors, ensure you understand and feel comfortable with every choice being made with your money.
Moving Forward
The biggest shift happens when you realise that money isn't about perfection, it's about awareness and intentional choices. Whether you're starting from financial stress or building wealth, begin by understanding your money triggers and creating space between emotion and action.
Connect with Natasha
Website: https://womenwithcents.com.au/
Take the money type quiz at https://womenwithcents.com.au/take-money-type-quiz/ to identify your patterns, then start small: track your spending emotions for a week, question one limiting belief about money, or have one honest conversation about finances with someone you trust.
Book: Wonder Woman's Guide to Money: The Busy Woman's Guide to Money Management and Wealth Building https://www.amazon.com.au/Wonder-Womans-Guide-Money-Management/dp/0648244288
Connect with me
Book your 20-minute connection call https://calendly.com/jo--138/20min?month=2025-07
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Share your journey with me by sending me a message on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/joclarkcoaching/
Email me your success story at jo@joclarkcoaching.com.
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Here’s to redefining midlife and making our next half of life even better than the first.