Amie Baker, AFA NSW Inspire Chair, Certified Money Coach and Director Rekab Advice reveals how financial advice improves people’s lives and why she never sweats the small stuff.

1.Why a career in the financial advice profession?

Years ago I started in collections at St George bank. In most cases arrears were preventable with advice, so I found myself wanting to help. This launched me into a career of financial advice. Money is a major cause of stress – essentially, we help improve people’s lives and wellbeing.

2. Your favourite quote?

Oh gee this is hard because I have a library of quotes…. but this week this resonates with me:

“Believe you can and you are already halfway there” – Theodore Roosevelt.

3. What advice would you give to your younger self?

As a typical young woman I lacked self-confidence and didn’t value myself which resulted in poor choices in relationships and being ripped off in business so I would certainly remind myself of my value. Believe in yourself, don’t waste time worrying about what others think – you can do this!

I also wasted a lot of time fretting over things that didn’t really matter, so I would also give this advice – if it’s not going to be a problem in five years then don’t give it more than five minutes of your time.

4. One thing you’ve changed in your business during COVID-19?

I now communicate with my clients far more. During the beginning of lock down I would send out emails twice a week, updating clients with any help they may be entitled to with the Stimulus packages as they were being rolled out.

I have been far more proactive; “checking in” and making sure people are doing OK during these uncertain times, because as I mentioned earlier money is a great cause of stress.

I want my clients to know I am there for them as a sounding board, a friend and an adviser.

I have also increased my usage of technology so I can communicate regularly with clients.

 5. Your most recent ‘high-five’ moment?

Getting on with launching my Podcast and working on my money coaching / education platform Centsability – watch this space.

 6. Have you seen anything lately that made you smile?  

My children… I have a tribe and there is never a dull moment in our household, especially with a six month old in the mix of teenagers and a young adult.

7. What are you reading right now?

I have just started, The Moment of Lift by Melinda Gates, but I also have five books on my bedside table; finance books, behaviour and psychology books for research purposes.