Things like job loss, a failed business venture or an unexpected expense can shake even the most stable financial plans. But while daunting, these moments of truth are also opportunities for growth and reinvention. And with the right mindset and practical strategies, one will be able to rebuild, and build on firmer grounds for the future. 

Step 1: Assess the damage 

First, take stock of where you are. Undeniably an uncomfortable process, but it is important to understand where you are regarding making good decisions: write down all your debts, your assets, and immediate expenses. 

Step 2: Prioritise your essentials 

When resources are tight, focus on meeting your basic needs first: housing, food, utilities and transportation. Cut back on non-essential expenses, and revisit your budget regularly to adjust as circumstances change. 

Step 3: Create a recovery plan 

Once you’ve stabilised your day-to-day finances, it’s time to think about rebuilding. Here’s how: 

Create an Emergency Fund: Gather the daily loose change first. This will grow into that safety net over time. 

Avail Financial Assistance: The short-term loans or lines of credit may be used to meet your immediate need, but use them wisely to avoid falling further into debt. 

Increase and diversify the stream of earnings through temporary or additional work, and other sources which may go in line with your professional acumen. 

Step 4: Insure your future 

Check if the setback was due to some unexpected event, a disease or accident. This reminds one of the importance of adequate insurance. Be it health coverage, income protection or personal liability insurance, being prepared for the unexpected assures peace of mind and financial stability in the future. 

Step 5: Setting realistic goals 

Recovery is not a race; it’s a process. Set smaller achievable milestones, rebuilding your confidence, while monitoring the progress. For example, pay off one debt at a time, or save a fixed amount every month. One should celebrate these wins, as that’s what keeps one going. 

Step 6: Professional guidance 

Alone, it may be overwhelming to recover financially, and you may require help to get you on the right track. Financial advisers would be in the right position to give you a customised plan for your concerns about short-term recovery and long-term growth. They would be able to advise on investing, managing your debt, or anything related to taxes that would help in maximising your resources. 

Of course, setbacks can be transformational, but not necessarily easy. 

Setbacks can really do a lot in teaching salient lessons about one’s financial habits, preparation, and how to adapt to changing circumstances. Focus on what you can control, and make conscious steps forward. This is how recovery will be affected to usher you into a future that is stronger and more secure than before. 

*Mignon du Preez is the group marketing, public affairs and sustainability executive at Old Mutual Namibia.