This could be the most expensive thing you didn’t know about..

Most people are unaware of how much money they’re losing to investment fees—simply because no one teaches us how to spot them, let alone avoid them.

So, let’s break this down clearly.

Let’s say you begin investing $400 per month at age 25, and your portfolio earns an average annual return of 10%. That’s a fairly standard projection.

Now here’s the difference that fees make:

If you invest independently using something like a low-fee index fund (with fees around 0.2%), by retirement you could be sitting on approximately $2.1 million.

But if you go through a financial advisor or managed fund charging 2.5% in fees (which is surprisingly common), that total drops to $1.13 million.

That’s nearly $1 million lost—just in fees.
Not lost to poor performance. Not lost to market downturns.
Lost to the cost of letting someone else do what you could do yourself.

And it doesn’t stop there.
With $2.1M, you could comfortably withdraw $85,000 annually in retirement.
With $1.13M, your safe withdrawal drops to $45,000.

That’s a $39,000 annual income gap.
It could mean the difference between choice and compromise:
– Freedom to travel, upgrade your home, or enjoy your lifestyle…
– Versus cutting costs, living frugally, and worrying about whether your money will last.

The harsh truth?

That money didn’t vanish. It was redirected—into someone else’s pocket.

And this is exactly why learning how to invest on your own is not optional anymore.
It’s essential.

The good news? It’s not as hard as it seems.
It’s just that most people were never shown how.

That’s exactly why I created my Invest in Yourself Workshop — to help you take control, build confidence, and keep your wealth where it belongs: with you.

I’ll walk you through the basics, the strategy, and the tools—step by step.

Reserve your spot here.

Because there is absolutely no reason to hand over hundreds of thousands (or millions) in fees when you’re more than capable of managing your own wealth.

Let’s make sure your money works for you, not for someone else.

See you there,
Jaya

Your Freedom Figure: The Fast-Track to Financial Independence

Let’s talk about the number that puts you back in control.

Your Freedom Figure is the amount of money you need invested to give yourself options — the freedom to walk away from anything that drains you, limits you, or no longer aligns with the life you’re building.

It’s not just about quitting a job you don’t love — it’s about creating the ability to choose how you spend your time, where you work, who you say yes to, and how you live.

This number = peace, power, and possibility. And the best part? You have more control over how and when you reach it than you might think.

So, How Do You Calculate It?

Enter: The 25x Rule
Here’s the simple formula:

Take your annual living expenses and multiply them by 25.

This gives you a solid estimate of what you’d need invested to live off your money indefinitely (based on the 4% safe withdrawal rule). Example:

• Spend $50K/year → Freedom Figure = $1.25 million

• Spend $75K/year → Freedom Figure = $1.875 million

• Spend $100K/year → Freedom Figure = $2.5 million

Sounds like a lot? Don’t panic. Because here’s the truth most people miss…

You Don’t Need to Save That Much — You Need to Invest It

Trying to save your way to seven figures will take forever.
But investing? That’s where the magic happens.

When you invest your money — whether through shares, property, or funds — it starts to grow on its own through compounding returns. That’s how you build wealth faster.

Look at this:

• Invest $1,500/month at 10% → You could reach $1.1 million in 20 years

• Invest $500/month at 10% → That’s $300K in 20 years

Your investment rate doesn’t just influence how much you accumulate — it determines how fast you get there.

More Investing = Less Needed & Less Time

Here’s what most people don’t realise: the more you invest, the less you’ll need to reach your goal — and the sooner you’ll get there.

Example:
Person A

• Saves just 5% of income

• Needs $1.78M invested

• Reaches it in 41 years

Person B

• Saves 30% of income

• Needs $1.31M

• Reaches it in 21 years

That’s 20 years saved and nearly half a million less required — just from being more intentional with investing.

There is no need for extreme budgeting or sacrificing joy. Just chose not to overpay for things you don’t truly value.

• Why pay premium rent when you could live beautifully for less and invest the difference?

• Why finance a luxury car when a quality one gets you there just the same — and frees up thousands to invest?

• Why throw money at things that don’t move the needle when you could put that cash towards freedom, travel, and lifestyle upgrades that you actually care about?

Every smart money choice is a step closer to your Freedom Figure.

So… How Soon Do You Want to Hit Your Freedom Figure?

You can choose to wait 30–40 years to reach it… or start now and collapse that timeline dramatically.

And the best part? You don’t have to figure it all out alone.

In my eBook, Your Garden of Eden: Create Your Own Financial Freedom, I walk you through:

• How to calculate your Freedom Figure

• Where to invest to grow your wealth faster

• How to structure your finances for long-term freedom

Click here to grab your copy now.

Because freedom doesn’t come from guessing — it comes from knowing your number, having a plan, and building it with intention.

If You See Yourself as Broke, Then That’s What You Will Stay

Let’s have a real conversation.

If you’ve ever felt like you were finally making progress — you were saving, earning more, maybe even starting to build momentum — only to find yourself slipping backwards again…

It’s not because you’re bad with money.
It’s not a lack of discipline.
It’s because deep down, you may still see yourself as someone who struggles financially.

And whether we realise it or not, we act in alignment with our identity — not our intentions.

Self-sabotage isn’t always loud. Most of the time, it looks like:

• Making just enough to get by, but never quite pushing past survival mode

• Building up savings, then something “unexpected” always wipes it out

• Watching others build wealth, but feeling like “that’s not for me”

• Putting off investing, ignoring your accounts, or waiting until you “feel ready”

And it all happens without us even being aware — because it’s not just about money. It’s about who we believe we are.

If you were raised around stress, scarcity, or survival…
If you grew up hearing things like “we can’t afford that”…
If your experience with money has always felt heavy, uncertain, or just out of reach…

Then being broke stopped being a temporary situation and started becoming part of your story.

And until you rewrite that story, no amount of budgeting or “trying harder” will create real, lasting change.
Because we always return to what feels familiar — even when that familiarity is keeping us stuck.

That’s exactly why inside my 3-month financial coaching program, we don’t just talk about money.
We build the foundations for real, long-term change.

Yes — I’ll teach you how to invest with confidence, pay off debt, grow your wealth and take control of your financial future. But we also work on shifting the internal patterns that have held you back.

We unpack the beliefs that aren’t serving you.
We rebuild your identity around security, power, and financial clarity.
And we create new habits that actually stick — because they’re built from the inside out.

Because when you stop seeing yourself as someone who’s stuck…
And start seeing yourself as someone who’s capable, strategic, and financially powerful — your reality shifts.

If you’re ready to break the cycle and move forward — for good — I’d love to invite you to read my eBook as your blueprint for wealth creation.

Inside, I will walk you through how to shift your relationship with money, how to build wealth even if you’re starting from scratch, and how to finally feel financially free.

Click here to download the blueprint.

No pressure. Just a genuine starting point to take control of your finances — and your future.

You’re not bad with money. You’ve just never been shown the whole picture.

Let’s change that — together.

Why No Amount of Budgeting Is Fixing It

If you’ve been doing all the “right” things with your money — budgeting, cutting back, tracking every dollar — and still feel like you’re not getting ahead… I want you to know something important:

It’s not about the math. It’s about what’s underneath it.

Here’s what I mean.

Most people think if they just find the perfect budget, spend less on small things, or finally stick to a plan, they’ll start feeling financially secure.

But money isn’t just naumbers on a spreadsheet.

It’s emotional. It’s psychological. It’s often deeply subconscious.

And if no one’s ever helped you unpack what’s really behind your money habits, then no amount of budgeting will shift the bigger picture — even if you start earning more.

Let’s break it down:

• Struggling with impulse spending? That’s often tied to emotional habits — like using money to feel good, avoid discomfort, or escape stress.

• Avoiding your bank account? That’s not laziness — that’s likely a shame response.

• Find it hard to save even when you can? That might come from old beliefs about not being safe, worthy, or supported.

• Putting off investing? That’s often fear — fear of losing money, making mistakes, or not feeling like you know “enough.”

This isn’t about willpower. It’s about wiring.

Most of your beliefs around money were shaped before you even had the power to earn it — usually before age seven. And without realizing it, those patterns keep playing out in the background.

So, more information alone won’t fix it.

Because until your body actually feels safe with money — not just your mind — the tactics don’t stick.

That’s why in my financial coaching program, we don’t just focus on the practical stuff (although we absolutely cover how to invest, manage debt, and build wealth properly). We go deeper.

We look at the reasons behind your patterns.
We work through the emotional blocks, the fear, the guilt, the self-sabotage.
We help you rewrite the script you didn’t even know you were following.

And yes — I even bring in a therapist to support this work. Because real financial transformation isn’t just strategy. It’s integration.

So if you’re ready to stop trying to “fix” your money with more spreadsheets — and actually shift the way you think, feel, and act around it…

If you’re ready to finally feel safe, capable, and confident with your finances...

I’d love to invite you to apply to work with me.

Click here to apply to the mentorship program. No pressure. Just a real conversation about where you are now, what’s keeping you stuck, and whether we can get you to where you want to be.

You’re not bad with money. You’ve just never been taught the full picture.

Let’s change that.

3 Big Forex Misconceptions (You’ll Want to Unlearn ASAP)

Whether you’re just getting started or you’ve been in the trading game for a while, chances are you’ve come across a few common beliefs about forex. Some have a grain of truth... but these three? Total myths. Let’s break them down:

Myth #1: “If I keep trying, eventually I’ll succeed.”

Let’s be blunt: the forex market doesn’t care how many hours you’ve put in.
This isn’t a Disney movie — you don’t get rewarded just for effort. You could watch the charts 24/7, sacrifice sleep, and skip every social event, and still blow your account if you’re not trading smart.

Success in trading doesn’t come from hustle alone — it comes from developing actual skill. That means:

• Sticking to a strategy

• Learning from your data

• Managing risk like a pro

The market doesn’t hand out gold stars for trying hard. It rewards consistency, control, and clarity. So instead of “try harder,” ask yourself: am I actually getting better?

Myth #2: “Discipline is all you need.”

Yes, discipline matters. But it’s not a magic shield.

You could be the most disciplined person alive — but if your strategy is flawed, if you haven’t practiced enough, or if you haven’t figured out what trading style suits you… guess what? You’ll still lose trades.

Sometimes markets just don’t behave. News drops, black swan events happen, or your edge simply isn’t there that day.
Being disciplined helps you handle those situations better. But it doesn’t guarantee you’ll avoid them altogether.

So yes, be disciplined — but back it up with preparation, testing, and the right tools.

Myth #3: “Your emotions are your biggest enemy.”

Not quite. Emotions aren’t the enemy — unmanaged emotions are.

You’re human. You’re supposed to feel something when a trade goes sideways. Stress, frustration, self-doubt… it’s all normal. The real issue is when your emotions start driving your decisions instead of your system.

But here’s the thing: emotions usually flare up after poor trading — not the other way around.

• Trading without an edge? That’ll mess with your confidence.

• Ignoring your risk plan? That’ll spike your stress.

• Taking random trades? Cue the regret.

So instead of trying to be a robot, focus on building a process that keeps your emotions in check before they spiral.

If you’ve believed any of these — you’re not alone. We all start somewhere. But trading isn’t about working harder, being perfect, or silencing every emotion. It’s about mastering the craft, one lesson at a time.

So, which of these myths have you fallen for?

And more importantly — which one are you ready to let go of?

Should You Use an Automated Trading System? Here's the Real Story.

Yes, trading can be emotional, time-consuming, and sometimes downright overwhelming. That is why automated trading systems (also called algo trading) have become so popular. These systems use pre-programmed rules to automatically place trades, helping you remove the guesswork, the stress, and the constant screen-watching from your day.

But while they offer incredible advantages, they’re not a magic solution. Like any tool, they work best when you understand how to use them properly and what risks they present.

How Automated Trading Works

In simple terms, automated trading systems are built using algorithms: coded instructions that tell a program exactly when to enter or exit a trade. Most systems are based on technical indicators like moving averages, RSI, MACD, or price action strategies. Once the criteria are met, the trade gets placed instantly. No hesitation. No second-guessing.

Here’s the basic flow:

1. Create the strategy – you build or buy a trading plan and convert it into code.

2. Generate trade signals – the system looks for entry/exit setups based on the rules.

3. Execute trades – orders are placed automatically when the signal triggers.

4. Manage risk – stop losses, trailing stops, and take profits are all coded in.

5. Back test – run the system on historical data to see how it would have performed.

Sounds good, right? Let’s look at where it shines and where you need to stay sharp.

What’s Great About Automated Trading

1. No More Emotional Decisions

Fear, greed, hesitation—these things ruin good trades. With automation, you're sticking to a system that doesn't get spooked or greedy.

2. Consistent Execution

You get discipline. The strategy runs the same way, every time. No impulsive changes, no "I'll just try this once" moments.

3. Lightning Fast

These systems can react in milliseconds. That means you catch opportunities you’d probably miss if you were clicking manually.

4. Back testing Before You Go Live

You don’t need to fly blind. Most systems let you test on past data so you can fine-tune before risking real money.

5. Multi-Tasking Made Easy

Automated systems can run several strategies across multiple pairs, markets, or timeframes at once. You can diversify without burning out.

Where Things Can Go Wrong

1. You Still Need to Watch It

“Set and forget” doesn’t really exist. Markets evolve, and systems can malfunction. You’ll still need to check in, tweak, and adapt.

2. Tech Glitches Happen

A power cut, internet drop, server error, or a bug in the code can cause unexpected losses or missed trades.

3. Over-Optimising Kills Performance

Some traders tweak their back tests until the system looks perfect on paper—only to watch it fail live. That’s called “curve-fitting,” and it rarely works in real time.

4. It’s Not Always Cheap

Getting a reliable system (especially one that’s custom-built) can cost time and money. Plus, you may need to pay for data feeds, VPS hosting, or ongoing updates.

Real Talk: Case Studies That Tell the Story

When It Works

High-frequency trading (HFT) firms have mastered the art of automation. These companies use ultra-fast systems to execute thousands of trades a day, taking advantage of micro-changes in price. While it’s not something most retail traders can do, it shows the power of speed and strategy at scale.

When It Goes Wrong

Take Knight Capital in 2012. They deployed a new trading system that had a coding error — one that went completely unchecked. Within just 45 minutes, they racked up over $440 million in losses, nearly bankrupting the company. One small glitch. One overlooked test. That’s all it took.

Regulations and Ethics

Regulators like the SEC and FCA keep a close eye on automated trading. Systems must operate fairly and transparently, and there’s increasing pressure on platforms to prevent manipulative tactics like spoofing. If you’re building your own system, make sure it doesn’t violate the rules—intentional or not.

The Future of Automation in Trading

We’re heading into a world where AI and machine learning will take automated systems to the next level. These tools are starting to learn from the data, adapt to changing conditions, and even self-optimize over time. Plus, blockchain tech could make trades faster and more secure.

Best Practices for Using an Automated System

• Know Your Strategy: Whether you built it or bought it, make sure you understand how it works and what triggers it uses.

• Keep Learning: Markets change. Stay updated, stay educated.

• Monitor and Maintain: Run regular checks and don’t assume everything is running fine just because you’re not getting alerts.

• Test Thoroughly: Use back testing and demo trading before you ever go live with real money.

Final Thoughts

Automated trading can give you a major edge. It removes emotion, adds speed, improves consistency, and opens up time and opportunity. But it’s not foolproof — and definitely not hands-off.

If you’re thinking about using automation in your trading journey, make sure you understand both the upside and the risks. With the right setup, it can be one of the most powerful tools in your wealth-building toolkit.

How Do You Know When You're Ready to Switch From Demo to Live Trading?

Let’s be real — trading a demo account and trading real money are two very different games.

One has no emotional weight. The other? Your heart’s racing, your palms are sweaty, and suddenly you're questioning everything.

So how do you know when you’re actually ready to go live?

It’s not about how long you’ve been demo trading. It’s about whether you’ve built the habits, confidence, and consistency that can hold up under pressure.

Here’s what to look for:

You’re Consistently Profitable Over Time

And no, not just over a lucky week.
Look for consistent profitability over 2–3 months, using a defined strategy. That means:

• Your wins are larger than your losses (positive risk-reward)

• Your losing trades follow your rules — not emotional decisions

• You can spot patterns in your performance (not just random results)

You’re Treating Your Demo Like It’s Real Money

If you're still revenge-trading, over-leveraging, or skipping your plan — you’re not ready.
The best sign that you're nearly there? You're disciplined even when there's no money on the line. You follow your trading rules, log your trades, and track your performance.

You’ve Got a Solid Trading Plan

Before going live, your plan should cover:

• Entry and exit criteria

• Risk management (lot size, stop losses, max drawdown per day)

• Trade journaling and review

• A backup plan when the market gets weird

Going live without a plan is like skydiving with a half-packed parachute.

You Know What to Expect Emotionally

You’ve simulated wins. You’ve simulated losses.
Now ask yourself: How do I handle both?

If you’ve been able to:

• Stay calm after a loss without chasing the market

• Stick to your plan after a winning streak

• Log your emotions and learn from them

You’re mentally ready for the next level.

You’re Not Rushing It

The moment you start thinking, “I need to go live because I’m bored / impatient / need to make money,” — hit pause. That’s pressure, not readiness.

Go live when you feel grounded, not desperate.

So, What’s the Best Way to Start?

Start small.
Even if you’re confident, don’t go in full throttle. A micro lot on a live account will trigger real emotions — but with minimal risk.

Set a max loss limit.
If you hit it, you step back and reassess. No questions asked.

Continue journaling.
You’re not done learning — you’re just entering a new phase of it.

Bottom Line:

You’re ready to go live when:

• You’ve proven you can follow your plan

• Your demo results show real consistency

• You’re managing your emotions, not reacting to them

• You’re stepping into live trading with structure and self-awareness

Don’t rush the switch. But don’t stay in demo forever either.
There’s only so much you can learn without real stakes.

When you’re ready — go in with confidence, manage your risk, and treat every trade like a lesson.

Because this is where the real growth begins.

Trading Term of the Day: Risk-Reward Ratio

Let’s talk about one of the most important concepts in trading — and one that separates strategic traders from emotional ones.

The risk-reward ratio is how you measure whether a trade is actually worth taking. It compares how much you stand to gain if you’re right, versus how much you could lose if you’re wrong.

In short — it helps you decide if the trade stacks up.

What Is the Risk-Reward Ratio?

The risk-reward ratio is a simple tool to help you weigh up the potential reward of a trade against the risk involved.

Instead of trading on gut feeling or hope, this gives you a clear picture:

“Is this trade worth it — or not?”

It’s one of the most powerful risk management tools you have, and it plays a huge role in whether or not you stay consistently profitable over time.

How to Calculate It

Here’s the simple formula:

Risk-Reward Ratio = Potential Profit / Potential Loss

Let’s say:

• Your potential profit is $500

• Your potential loss is $250

That gives you a 2:1 ratio — meaning you're aiming to make twice what you’re risking.

As a general rule, most traders aim for a risk-reward ratio of at least 1.5:1 or 2:1, depending on their strategy and style.

Why It Matters

Here’s why the risk-reward ratio is a non-negotiable part of smart trading:

• It helps you make better decisions. You stop jumping into trades based on emotion and start assessing them based on logic.

• It keeps your losses manageable. Even if you don’t win every trade (and no one does), strong risk-reward setups can still make you profitable.

• It creates long-term consistency. With a solid risk-reward strategy, you can afford to be wrong sometimes and still come out ahead.

• It builds emotional control. When you know your edge, you’re less likely to panic or chase losses — and that keeps your decision-making sharp.

Tips for Using Risk-Reward Ratios Effectively

1. Set your minimum. Know your baseline before you take any trade. For example, you might decide never to enter a trade with a risk-reward lower than 1.5:1.

2. Use stop-loss and take-profit levels. Always define your exit points in advance — this is how you calculate risk-reward accurately and stay disciplined.

3. Size your positions properly. Your lot size should reflect your risk tolerance, not just how confident you feel about a setup.

4. Review and refine. Regularly check your trade history to see if your risk-reward targets are holding up — and adjust if needed.

The Bottom Line

Your risk-reward ratio is one of the most practical tools you can use to stay consistent, stay disciplined, and stay in the game.

When you use it properly, you stop trading based on how a setup looks — and start trading based on what actually makes sense.

It's not just about taking trades. It’s about taking the right ones — with the right risk, for the right reward.

You Make Too Much Money to Feel This Stuck

Let’s have the honest conversation most people avoid.

You’ve done well for yourself.
You’ve got the career, the income, the lifestyle your younger self used to dream about.

From the outside, it looks like it’s all handled.
But behind the scenes?

You're stressed.
You’re checking your bank balance more often than you’d like to admit.
You feel guilty when you spend — but you're not saving either.
And truthfully, you don’t really know where your money’s going.

Let me make one thing clear:
You’re not bad with money.
You’re playing a game no one ever properly taught you how to win.

I work with high-earning individuals every day — and this story is more common than you think.

If you feel like you’re making great money with little to show for it…
You’re probably stuck in one (or more) of these traps:

1. You think earning more means you don’t have to track it

There’s plenty coming in, so everything should be fine… right?
But you only check your account when something bounces or declines. That’s not freedom — that’s survival in disguise.

What’s really going on:
You’re still operating from the financial ‘set point’ you grew up with.
If you’re used to having just enough, you’ll unconsciously keep returning to that level — even when you’re earning more.

What to do:
Decide what your new minimum is.
Maybe it’s $1,000 in your account. Maybe it’s $10,000.
But set a number that tells your brain: “Below this is not okay.”
That one decision starts to shift how you think, feel, and behave around money.

2. You believe wealth means being able to spend freely

So you upgrade. The home. The car. The wardrobe. The holidays.
But even with all of that, it doesn’t feel secure — it just feels stretched.

Here’s the truth:
Wealth isn’t about what you can spend. It’s about what you keep.
If your net worth isn’t growing, the lifestyle is just surface-level.

What to do:
Calculate your net worth.
Assets minus liabilities. No shame, no judgment — just clarity.
Because you can’t grow what you don’t track.

3. You’ve told yourself everything’s just “too expensive”

Yes, the cost of living has gone up. But if we zoom out, your lifestyle probably scaled right alongside your income — without a strategy behind it.

You’ve upgraded, but not planned.
You’ve built a life that looks good — but feels tight.

What to do:
Audit your monthly expenses.
What’s fixed, what’s essential, and what’s no longer worth what you’re paying?
True financial freedom comes from flexibility, not just more income.

4. You’re “treating yourself” — but really just trying to feel better

You’re tired. Maybe burnt out. Maybe just over it.
So you shop, you book the dinner, you plan the trip — not recklessly, but to take the edge off.

What’s really happening:
You’re using money as a coping tool.
Not because you’re careless — but because you’re running on empty.

What to do:
Start tracking what you spend and why.
This isn’t about restriction. It’s about intention.
When you know what’s driving the behaviour, you can choose something different.

5. You think being smart means you should already know this

You’ve succeeded in so many other areas of life — so why is money still so hard?

So, you don’t ask.
You DIY. You Google. You try to figure it out on your own.
And you tell yourself people who invest and build wealth must be different from you.

They’re not.
They’ve just been shown how.

What to do:
Stop trying to go it alone.
If you don’t have a financial system that works for you, you’ll keep bouncing between guilt, guessing, and getting stuck.

You’ve already done the hard part — you’ve earned the income.
Now it’s time to make it work for you.

If this hit home — good. That means you’re ready for more.

Because you deserve to feel in control of your money.
You deserve clarity, confidence, and actual wealth — not just the image of success.

This is the work we do inside my financial mentorship program.

We reset your financial baseline.
We clean up the chaos.
We build a strategy that fits your life — and scales with you.

And we do it in a way that feels grounded, aligned, and sustainable.

Ready to take the first step?
Click here to apply for the mentorship program.
No pressure — just real support to help you shift from “making money” to actually building wealth.

Because you’re not here to just look successful.

You’re here to be it — on your terms.

Save Money in your Business

1. Constant yet Cheap Advertising

Advertising doesn’t have to break the bank. Get creative with your existing touchpoints. If you're sending out invoices, include a promotion or special offer. If you have packaging or bags at the point of sale, add a discount code or QR code that links back to your business. Make every interaction with your customers count.

2. Joint Venture Advertisement

Why go it alone when you can share the load? Partner with complementary businesses to split the cost of advertising or create special joint promotions. You could even cross-promote to each other’s customer bases. Just ensure any shared customer data is handled ethically and aligns with both businesses’ values.

3. Client Referrals

Word-of-mouth referrals are one of the most powerful (and free) marketing tools available. People trust recommendations from those they know, so encourage your customers to spread the word. A simple referral program—like offering a small discount or bonus service for every new client they bring in—can go a long way in building a strong pipeline of new customers.

4. Be An Expert

People buy from those they trust, and one of the best ways to build trust is by sharing your knowledge. Whether it’s through teaching a workshop, writing an article, or speaking at an event, positioning yourself as an authority in your industry can bring credibility and attention to your business. Yes, it takes some effort, but the long-term impact is worth it.

5. Blogging Or Social Media

If you’re not using social media to market your business, you’re leaving money on the table. Find Facebook groups, LinkedIn communities, or industry-specific forums where your audience hangs out and start contributing valuable insights. Blogging is another free way to establish authority, improve SEO, and drive traffic to your business.

6. Free Forms and Templates

Time is money, so why waste it on creating documents from scratch? There are countless free business templates and forms available online that can be customised for your needs. Whether it’s contracts, invoices, or project planners, using ready-made templates saves both time and effort—allowing you to focus on growing your business instead.

7. Hire Temp Help

Hiring full-time staff comes with a big financial commitment, especially if your business has seasonal fluctuations. Instead, bring on temporary staff during busy periods to help manage demand without the ongoing overhead costs. This keeps your business flexible while ensuring you have the support you need when you need it.

8. Hire Free Help

Hiring interns is a win-win—they gain valuable experience, and you get additional hands on deck without the cost of full-time salaries. Many universities and colleges have internship programs where students need to complete work experience as part of their studies. It’s also a great way to test potential future hires.

9. Use Independent Contractors

For tasks that don’t require full-time employees, consider working with independent contractors. This allows you to bring in skilled professionals only when necessary, saving money on employment taxes and benefits. Just ensure you’re legally classifying contractors correctly to avoid compliance issues.

10. Use the Barter System

Not every transaction needs to involve money. Bartering—exchanging your product or service for something of equal value—can be a great way to reduce costs while still getting what you need. For example, if you’re a web designer, you could offer your services in exchange for marketing support or business coaching. Think outside the box and explore opportunities where a trade makes sense.

There are many ways to save money when running a business. It’s important to pay attention to costs as every dollar you spend on your business is one dollar that doesn’t make it into your pocket. Which of these strategies will you start implementing today?

Sustainable Development Goals - Are We Reducing Waste or Wasting Our Time?

To think that I first heard about the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at a foreign exchange conference—from institutional investors, no less—really highlights how far sustainable business has come in today’s economy.

My recent visit to the United Nations Headquarters in New York left me reflecting on some important questions:

• Where does the global economy stand today compared to historical trends?

• How is the UN bridging the gap between the private and public sectors?

• Are businesses truly stepping up to drive societal change?

What Are the Sustainable Development Goals?

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were established by the United Nations as a global blueprint for a better, more sustainable future by 2030. These 17 interconnected goals address major global challenges, from poverty and hunger to climate action and economic growth.

The best part? Everyone has a role to play in making these goals a reality.

The 17 Sustainable Development Goals & How You Can Take Action

Each goal tackles a key challenge, and even small actions can make a big difference.

1. No Poverty – Support initiatives that provide resources to those in need. Donate what you no longer use.

2. Zero Hunger – Reduce food waste and support organisations that provide meals to those in need.

3. Good Health & Well-Being – Advocate for access to healthcare and support vaccination programs.

4. Quality Education – Support education programs or mentor someone in need.

5. Gender Equality – Challenge discrimination and support women-led businesses.

6. Clean Water & Sanitation – Conserve water and support clean water initiatives.

7. Affordable & Clean Energy – Use energy-efficient appliances and explore renewable energy options.

8. Decent Work & Economic Growth – Support businesses committed to ethical employment and sustainability.

9. Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure – Advocate for investment in sustainable infrastructure.

10. Reduced Inequalities – Speak up against discrimination and promote inclusive workplaces.

11. Sustainable Cities & Communities – Choose sustainable transport options and support urban greening projects.

12. Responsible Production & Consumption – Reduce, reuse, and recycle to minimise waste.

13. Climate Action – Support climate policies and take steps to reduce your carbon footprint.

14. Life Below Water – Reduce plastic use and support ocean conservation programs.

15. Life on Land – Support reforestation and sustainable farming initiatives.

16. Peace, Justice & Strong Institutions – Advocate for fair governance and vote in elections.

17. Partnerships for the Goals – Engage with organisations working towards sustainable development.

Are We Making Progress?

At first glance, these goals may seem ambitious. But progress is happening.

In the book Factfulness by Dr Hans Rosling, global data paints a positive picture of change:

• Extreme poverty has nearly halved in the last 20 years.

• Over 80 percent of the world’s population has access to electricity.

• The majority of children worldwide now receive vaccinations.

These statistics are evidence that collective action leads to real results.

During my discussions with Abraham Joseph from the United Nations, he highlighted that while challenges remain, many countries are making great strides forward. Australia is progressing in environmental care, while the Netherlands and Japan are leading in disaster risk management.

How Businesses Can Bridge the Gap Between Public & Private Sectors

One of the key takeaways from my visit to the UN was understanding the importance of collaboration. The UN Global Compact, the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative, encourages businesses to align operations with 10 principles across human rights, labour, environment, and anti-corruption.

For businesses wanting to take action, support is available.

In Australia, organisations such as the Future Business Council and Future Business Generation help drive sustainable business practices in six key areas:

1. Positioning Australia as a global leader in sustainable business

2. Encouraging ethical materials and manufacturing

3. Enhancing transport, energy, and infrastructure

4. Strengthening agriculture and food sustainability

5. Investing in education, science, and future skills

6. Supporting innovative business models and start-ups

These focus areas encourage businesses and individuals to take action in advancing societal goals. With thousands of members in these organisations, Australia is gaining global recognition for its leadership in sustainability.

Where Do We Go from Here?

The progress made so far is encouraging, but there is still work to be done.

The systems, resources, and networks exist to drive meaningful change—it’s up to individuals, businesses, and governments to step up and take action.

Sustainability is no longer a niche concept. It’s shaping economies, redefining industries, and influencing investment decisions. The more we integrate these principles into our businesses and daily lives, the closer we get to achieving a truly sustainable future.

The question now is: What role will you play?

How Often Should You Reassess the Market Environment?

Markets are always moving — and so should your awareness.
One minute the market’s calm, the next it’s swinging on the back of a headline, an economic release, or a sudden shift in sentiment. Welcome to the reality of modern trading — where volatility can creep in fast and unannounced.

If you want to stay ahead (or at least avoid getting blindsided), you need a rhythm.
Not one that keeps you glued to the screen 24/7 — but one that helps you reassess the environment at key moments without falling into the trap of overtrading.

Here’s how to do that in a way that’s smart, structured, and sustainable.

When to Reassess the Market:

You don’t need to over-analyze every flicker on the chart — just build in these checkpoints during your session:

1. After Major Market News

Big announcements like interest rate decisions, inflation data, or job numbers can shift the market fast. Have a routine for these moments:

• Know what time they’re coming (keep your economic calendar handy)

• Reduce your exposure or tighten your stops before the news drops

• Let the dust settle — don’t act on the first candle; wait for confirmation

2. During Key Session Changes

Liquidity and volatility often shift around session opens and overlaps. The most important one? The London/New York crossover. It’s usually where the action is.

• Before London opens: assess the overnight range

• During the overlap: look for trend continuation or momentum setups

• As New York winds down: expect slower, choppier moves — adjust your size

3. After Each Trade or Setup (especially if you're trading higher timeframes)

Each new candle (on a 4hr or daily chart) can change the outlook. Reassess once the candle closes — not mid-formation. Update your trend bias, adjust your stops, and check correlations.

4. Start & End of Your Day

• At the start: Scan the news, check overnight price action, and set a clear directional bias (long, short, or neutral) with invalidation levels.

• At the end: Review your trades, journal what happened and why, and prep for tomorrow. Don’t skip this part — it’s where real growth happens.

5. When Price Action Looks... Weird

Sometimes price moves don’t match the rhythm of the day — big spikes, unusual wicks, or strange reversals. That’s a sign something’s up (even if you don’t know what yet).

• Cut your position or go flat

• Check reliable news sources

• Don’t jump back in unless things settle and your setup reappears

How Often Is Too Often?

Reassessing is smart. Obsessing isn’t.
If you’re checking the charts every five minutes “just in case,” you’ll end up with decision fatigue, bad entries, and second-guesses.

Instead, build structure into your day:

• Scalpers: every 30–60 minutes or at news events

• Day traders: every 2–3 hours or around major sessions

• Swing traders: once or twice per day unless something big happens

Use timers, calendar reminders — whatever works for you. Then step away from the screen in between.

Sample Daily Rhythm (USD Pairs - Short-Term Trader)

Time (ET) Action

7:45 AM Pre-market scan + bias set

8:30 AM Reassess after data (e.g., NFP, CPI)

10:30 AM Mid-session pulse check — manage open trades

12:15 PM Reassess during slower lunch hours

2:00 PM Look out for surprise moves (Fed speakers, etc.)

4:05 PM End-of-day review + journaling

 Final Thoughts:

• Don’t reassess just because you’re bored or nervous — tie it to a real reason: news, session, setup, or price anomaly.

• Let your timeframe guide your rhythm. The lower the timeframe, the more often you check — but only at set intervals.

• Protect your energy. Trading is a performance game, not a guessing game. Rested minds make better decisions.

Stay sharp, stay calm, and don’t let the market rush you into trades that don’t make sense.
The goal isn’t to be busy — it’s to be effective.

The Time is Now

When you first started your business, the vision was clear. You had ambitious goals—whether it was growing a strong team, achieving financial milestones, or making a real impact in your industry.

But then reality set in.

You navigated the highs and lows, the challenges and the unexpected twists that come with entrepreneurship. You made it through the crucial first year, built some momentum, and found a level of comfort. But as time went on, you caught yourself thinking:

"I’ll push for growth when things feel steadier."
"I’ll take that next step when my team is more reliable."

The excuses pile up, and before you know it, opportunity is passing you by.

Instead of waiting for the “right time,” what if you decided that the right time is now?

Breaking Free from the ‘Not Now’ Mindset

Eckhart Tolle distinguishes between two types of time: clock time and psychological time. Clock time is practical—it helps us organise meetings, schedule deadlines, and measure progress. Psychological time, however, keeps us trapped in an endless loop of “one day, when things are perfect, I’ll…”

The reality? Everything you will ever achieve will happen in the present moment.

The past is done. The future isn’t guaranteed. The only time you truly have control over is now.

How Are You Spending Your Time?

Think about how carefully you manage your money. You set budgets, track expenses, and make strategic investments. But do you give the same attention to how you spend your time?

Unlike money, time doesn’t circulate. Once a day is spent, it’s gone forever. Yet many business owners operate without ever questioning whether their time investments are actually yielding results.

You might have the best intentions—structured plans, goals, and priorities—but then:

• A team member makes a mistake, and you have to jump in to fix it.

• A last-minute issue arises, and suddenly your day is derailed.

• A new hire starts, and you spend hours training instead of moving your business forward.

Unexpected events will always happen. The difference is how you respond. Will you keep letting distractions take over? Or will you commit to prioritising what truly moves the needle?

Make a Change Now

Your business will not grow if you keep operating in survival mode. The only way to break the cycle is to intentionally invest your time in the things that create real progress.

If you’re struggling to manage your time, stay accountable, or take the next step in your business, let’s change that.

📩 Email jaya@jayalesley.com to start making your business everything you envisioned.

The Business of Trading

It fascinates me how people perceive financial markets.

Some see them as prestigious, believing they are only understood by the highly intelligent. Others view them as risky, comparing them to gambling where money can disappear in an instant. Then, there are those who are intrigued—fascinated by the idea of making millions like they’re on Wall Street.

But at its core, the financial market is just like any other market—a place where you buy and sell to make a profit. The only difference is the product.

Your trading account is your business in another market. And just like running a successful business, managing a trading account requires strategy, discipline, and adaptability.

Here Are 5 Key Components of Trading Like a Business:

1. Maximise Your Profits Like a Business Owner

Every business has competitors, and customers choose which company they’ll buy from. The same applies to trading—when you win a trade, another trader takes a loss.

Some traders hesitate to take bigger profits because they feel uncomfortable "taking" from others, but this mindset limits success. In business, companies work together at times, but ultimately, they focus on growth and profitability.

Trading is no different. Your goal should be to maximise your profits, not just take what feels comfortable.

2. React & Adapt to the Market

A great business owner stays ahead of the game but also knows how to respond to change.

In business, feedback comes from customer reviews, system errors, or financial losses—all of which require adjustments. In trading, the market constantly gives feedback in the form of price movements and trends.

If your strategy isn’t working, react accordingly. Cut your losses quickly and let your profits run. Adapt to what’s in front of you instead of holding onto a strategy that isn’t producing results.

3. Financial Management is the Key to Survival

Trading isn’t about being right all the time—it’s about managing risk and money effectively.

Every business owner understands that financial management is essential for long-term success. Losses in trading are just like business expenses—they need to be minimised and strategically managed.

The key question is:
Do you know what it costs to ‘open the doors’ of your trading business each day?

If not, it’s time to approach your trading finances the way a business owner manages their overheads. Survival in trading, just like in business, depends on financial discipline.

4. What Can Be Measured, Can Be Managed

If business success depends on tracking performance and refining processes, why should trading be any different?

Companies that fail to meet sales or distribution targets don’t just accept failure—they analyse their supply chain, assess market demand, and adjust their strategy.

If your trading isn’t delivering the results you want, the solution is the same:

• Analyse your trades—what’s working and what isn’t?

• Refine your system—make adjustments based on real data.

• Track and measure everything—because what can be measured, can be managed.

The more you understand your trading performance, the easier it becomes to adjust, improve, and succeed.

5. Overcoming Self-Sabotage

The biggest threat to success—whether in business, trading, or life—is often self-sabotage.

People hold themselves back for many reasons:

• Fear of change and uncertainty

• Feeling undeserving of success

• Subconscious patterns that keep them in a cycle of failure

• A need for excitement, whether positive or negative

Both business and trading require calculated, strategic decision-making, not emotional impulses or a hunger for instant gratification.

To succeed, work on your mindset:

• Identify limiting beliefs.

• Reframe fear as opportunity.

• Get comfortable with change and uncertainty.

When you understand how your mind works, you gain the ability to manage your emotions, stay disciplined, and make better decisions.

Turn Your Trading into a Business

Trading isn’t about luck—it’s about strategy, financial discipline, and mindset.

When you start treating your trading account like a business, you unlock the structure, accountability, and long-term growth needed for real success.

📩 Want to learn more about business psychology, strategy, and financial management? Email jaya@jayalesley.com to take the next step.