THE BEGINNER'S GUIDE TO RUNNING LAPS AROUND THE ECONOMY

CATCHING UP WHEN INFLATION IS ALWAYS OUT TO SET A NEW PB CAN FEEL IMPOSSIBLE. PUT THESE 11 EXPERT-APPROVED LESSONS INTO ACTION TO DUCK AND WEAVE AROUND YOUR MONEY WOES

- KIERAN LEGG

WE'RE ALL HEADED TOWARD A DIFFICULT RETIREMENT. According to the National Treasury, just 6% of South Africans have saved up enough to weather the slings of outrageous fortune (or lack thereof) lurking in the shadows of our Golden Years. Bottom line: the economy has us all on the ropes.

"It's a problem of six inches," says Bruce Whitfield author of The Upside of Down: How Chaos and Uncertainty Breed Opportunity in South Africa. "That is the approximate distance between your ears. You know what you need to do because every sensible book about money boils down to that basic principle." That fundamental concept? Consistent saving over long periods in a world that's equally terrifying and unpredictable. The reality is that investing in your future is no different from prepping for a marathon. "Nobody competes in an endurance event without a training programme and a buddy to keep them motivated and focused on their goal," adds Whitfield.

Stick to a plan and take it one step at a time that's the only way you'll ever see the finish line. Whitfield's new show, The Financial Freedom Pod, sees him team up with financial advisor Warren Ingram to guide guys through the incremental changes necessary to achieve financial success. "Get a buddy, start a club, meet regularly, have robust conversations about investing and put away money consistently in good times and in bad," he summarises. "It's not that hard. Like fitness, it doesn't happen without effort and commitment but the rewards will set you free."

Pick up the pace: the easy reps on the following pages will help you max out your money mileage.

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