How I became an investor

Growing up, getting married, growing old together, and living happily ever after – this may be the plan many of us have. However, we know things sometimes go differently than intended and being prepared is essential.

Like many women, Leticia once dreamed of building a future with her husband. But as their relationship took a different turn, they realised they needed to follow different paths. Leticia had to start over from scratch, but this time alone.

“I always thought that achieving financial independence by myself was impossible. I grew up believing I needed a partner to grow financially together. Now I realise it’s possible to do it alone,” says Leticia Fonseca, personal finances mentor.

It was only after an extensive and complicated divorce that Letícia decided to dive deep into self-knowledge and personal development. She knew she was good with money but hadn’t realised yet that she could make a living out of her skills. But one thing she knew for sure: she had to be her own “wealthy husband.”

“Since I was a child, I’ve always had emergency funds, even before I knew what emergency funds were,” says Leticia.

TURNING POINT 

So, Leticia signed up for a Personal Finances Coaching Course in February 2019. She fell in love with it immediately, initially started helping people for free, and never looked back after that. She realised that she could achieve financial independence while assisting other people to reach theirs.

Today, Leticia is a financial adviser. She delivers financial courses and mentoring programs to women and helps them create a better relationship with their money. She teaches them how to invest wisely to reach their goals in the long run.

“Over a few years, I used my financial organisation skills to avoid debt and invest in my future. I went from a waitress to a senior marketing manager in ten years. From virtually nothing in 2005, I have established savings. I bought a flat in London, learned about investment, and set myself on the path to becoming financially free.

It’s not magic, a scheme, a cult, or a con. It’s about taking control and getting organised. Setting your intentions and developing positive habits make a big difference in the long run.”

Leticia aims to achieve total financial freedom in the next five years when she intends to live off her earnings. Today, Leticia invests 50% of her earnings in the stock market.

TOP TIPS: Self Awareness & Budgeting

Among the tips Ms Fonseca provides in her courses, she explains that the starting point towards financial independence is to be aware of your income versus your outgoings.

“Our relationship with money is directly connected to our emotions. If we learn to control our emotions: anger, fear, shame, and greed, we are halfway through achieving financial success. We must be aware of our money habits because they greatly influence whether we will be poor or rich.

To achieve financial independence is essential to understand that personal finance is 20% technical knowledge and 80% behaviour. 

Therefore, the first step towards financial independence is having a SMART goal. It’s not an easy task, but it’s rewarding. “Forget about the noise outside. Don’t worry about the trendiest investment at the moment. Spend less than you earn and start saving. Only then choose the investments that best match your profile,” Leticia explains.

And you? Have you ever wondered about your relationship with your money? How badly do you want to achieve your financial freedom?