How to get rich without too much sweat for people who are struggling financially

I often hear people say, 'Why am I poor? Why are Africans poor, even though they live in the midst of abundance? A couple of years ago, I ran a Money Workshop program at the start of the recession and I was amazed at how educated people dealt with money/investments. Many people do not have a clue about how money is made and multiplied... I thought about all these things carefully and this is what I say:

1. Improve yourself with education/training/apprenticeship/practise
2. Everyday learn something new especially as you get older
3. Have a big dream, a purpose, MIND YOUR OWN BUSINESSES or find a meaningful career you love and work hard
4. Stay focused
5. Move in the right circles, be friendly but firm and network non-stop
6. Be encouraged - get over disappointments quickly and move on
7. Be persistent - never, ever give up on your dreams
8. Aim high, set goals, be determined, be bold
9. Up grade your communication skills - take writing/public speaking lessons
10. Help as many people as possible - the more people you help the better - solve their problems
11. LOVE others, support them and have FUN
12. Be patient - it takes time for good things to blossom
13. Share your knowledge - don't be selfish and keep everything to yourself
14. Look the part - presentation matters - look your best at all times
15. Be better than the last time - correct mistakes
16. Invest and re-invest - Always save a fifth of your income for investments
16. Be excellent at whatever you do, BE THE BEST and your economic status will gradually change."

#MorinOkenla #EnrichAfrica #iShineMagazine© 2014

Personal Finance for Students: Money Saving Tips

Photo Credit: Telegraph

With high student finance, many students struggle to get by. The costs of tuition are high in the face of the recession and inflation.  Despite this, students don’t have to despair because there are many ways they can use to save money and, even have fun while doing so.

1.)     Select a good and cheap bank

These banks will not waste your money in account fees and other unnecessary avoidable expenses. Having a bank that offers free online banking for students is also critical at ensuring you keep check fees in check.

2.)     Get credit cards that do not attract annual fees and interest rates

Getting these cards is not always so simple-you have to deliberately shop around for them. Saving on the credit cards also requires you pay debts on them immediately in order to avoid high interest rates. If you can't do this then forget having  credit card.

3.)     Reduce spending on food and beverages

Rather than eat out at expensive restaurants, consider some fast foods.  Join up with friends and buy fresh food, drinks and household items  in bulk from local stores.

4.)     Buy used textbooks instead of new ones

Use the different textbook price comparison sites online to buy books as this will save you money.

5.)     Buy a good coffee maker

You don’t have to spend on useless coffees at coffee shops. If you can tuck a nice coffee thermos in your backpack you will maximize savings.

6.)     Stock up on snack foods

This is eventually cheaper than buying from coffee shops and fast food spots. It’s always cheaper. Moreover, doing this makes them more portable than you imagine.

7.)     Don’t buy bottled water

Instead, buy yourself affordable and easy to carry water bottle for refilling. If the water in your area is crappy, buying a water filter is an asset you can carry along with you rather than buying bottled water.

8.)     Take advantage of students discounts

This sounds like a good idea when you’re in college. There are several retailers who offer discounts to student customers. If you have a student shopping discounts card, use it or limit your shopping to offer days and during festive seasons. This can save you a lot of money in discounts and offers.

9.)     Buy used products whenever it’s possible

Get your products on eBay or craigslist to ensure that the prices are significantly lower than if you bought new. Sometimes, buying used is better than buying new and you should take advantage of the savings.

10.)     Consider getting free entertainment than paying for it

Go watch TV, screen free movies with friends on campus, go for touch football or rugby with friend, play tennis, or go swimming.   Keeping looking out for deals and you can save a fortune.

By Kayleen and Morin 

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