After nearly 11 years of engaging with readers across many publications, I realised that while there are many books that cover the theory behind creating a financial plan and offer encouragement to do so, what was really needed was a money book that offers practical advice on how to implement a money plan.
What has been a labour of love over the last year has now resulted in the book Maya on Money: Implement Your Money Plan which went on sale this week.
The information in this book is inspired by the questions that people from all walks of life have asked me over and over again – those day-to-day money questions like:
- How do I budget?
- How do I pay off my debts?
- Which is the best bank account?
- Can I afford a house?
- Where can I invest?
I have drawn on the many conversations with readers that I have had the privilege to engage with over the years, and the result is this book. I hope it helps you on your money path.
I will be presenting a Maya on Money forum at the Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS) in Illovo, Johannesburg, on 5 March. All are welcome to attend – you just need to register.
The book is available at any good bookstore and online through Kalahari.com, Takealot.com and Raru.
I would however like to offer my regular readers a chance to win a copy of the book so they can start to implement their money plan. In the comments section of this article, tell me the one money question you really need answered.
Looks like a great follow-up to The Total Money Makeover, look forward to reading it.
Had the 5th March not been my birthday, I would have attended the forum at GIBS, but will be spending the time with family that evening.
If (or rather when 🙂 ) my family or friends ask what to get me for my birthday, it will be your new book!
All the best with the new book launch
Regards,
James
I have two books as a giveaway and as it is your birthday it seems fitting to send ne to you. Your family and friends should probably buy a copy for themselves too! Although maybe only after they have spent money on your presents…
Thanks Maya, was really good news to hear about the 2nd book. I will certainly encourage family and friends to buy the book, but it will also be a great gift idea for their birthdays.
Hi Maya.
I thankfully have no debt, am employed and have some money/shares for retirement. I know the amount saved is insufficient, as I would like to have a reasonably comfortable (not extravagant) retirement standard of living.
I am looking for good shares that will assist with reasonable but steady dividend payments. The catch – I want shariah compliant shares/investments. Also, as I only have 3 years before retirement, my new investment cannot be long term.
Do you have any recommendations on dividend paying shariah compliant shares, and where I could place a small annual fixed term investment with a great return?
Regards
SA
Hi Maya
I am brilliant at drawing up budget. Brilliant at making plans to pay off my debt (student loan, credit card). I even make provisions every month for money that I should be saving for things like annual car services, annual memberships, etc.
The problem? I don’t stick to it at all. At the end of every month, when I look at my financial position, my net is always in negative. I normally then just set all the savings I should have to zero, in effect wiping them out to cover my “overspending”. And that is with my credit card staying maxed out.
I know I should stick to my budget the same way I know I should exercise 3 times a week. I don’t do either.
So my question is: how do I put a realistic budget in place and then stick to it?
Thanks
Darienne
PS I will definitely be attending your talk at GIBS (even though I can’t afford it ;-p –> I’m hoping the investment in the talk will have great returns!)
Well Darienne your post has won you the Maya on Money book so hopefully that leaves some cash available for the GIBS forum!
The best way to stick to your plan is to give yourself no choice.
1. The first debit order off your salary should be to your savings – have a debit order going into your credit card and student loan, an automatic transfer from your cheque account to savings account for big expenses and a debit order into longer term savings. What you don’t have in your bank account you can’t spend
2. Cut up your credit card or at least give it to someone (without the PIN) so you can’t use it. Close down all your credit lines like store cards etc. The temptation to spend on your card is just too high.
3. You may want to try the envelope strategy described in my book until you get your spending under control
The thing is, when you start to take control you pay off your debts so quickly – you can turn around your finances far sooner than you realise and that in turn will keep you motivated.
Haha thanks Maya 🙂
I am opening a savings account as we ‘speak’ 🙂 (my first one!).
Looking forward to the book and your talk 🙂