Polly Harding

31 | Rural Wairarapa

Describe the state of your finances in a few words.

Better than they were! I used to be shocking. And my budgeting is still pretty atrocious, but I have got better. I purchased a property at the end of last year which I was very proud of, but have definitely felt the pinch a bit more since doing that!

On a scale of 1-10, when it comes to confidence with money, where do you sit?

Maybe 6??

What do you think about overall gender equality? Where we are as women, and where we're going?

We have definitely made moves in a positive direction, but still have more work to do! There are so many incredibly bold women out there making waves at the moment and I think we need to get behind them as much as we can. Women lifting up other women is POWERFUL so show support where you can!

Do you think it’s important for women to start having more conversations about money?

Absolutely. Unfortunately for so long conversations around investing and markets and all that jazz have centred around guys... which is ridiculous and we need to balance that out because long term we have been getting screwed over. Knowledge is power!

In NZ and AUS we’re quite embarrassed about conversations around money and often avoid them. Why do you think that is?

I wonder if it is a tall poppy syndrome kind of thing. We feel shame in sharing our success which is just ridiculous and equal shame in sharing areas where we can improve (as we feel like we are a lost cause). Transparent conversations are essential for remedying this I believe and the more open we are, the more we can learn.

What has your own personal journey with finances been like?

I used to be shocking and would rely on parents to top me up monthly, which is very embarrassing, because I should have been able to survive on the money I was on. Since earning more I have been fortunate enough to save and comfortably live, but my relationship with actual budgeting has room for growth! I have always been an 'impulsive, life is for living' kind of gal which has left me at times struggling to pay for actual necessities.

Have you ever had any hairy calls when it comes to your finances?

I reckon buying a car brand new. That stuff depreciates so fast and I can't have nice things because I damage them so moving forward... second hand cars only!!!

What does financial freedom mean or look like to you?

Not being forced into decisions by default. Having options and diversity of finances so you can make your own choices and do what you want!

What's one thing you're saving for right now?

AIR B'N'B!

What do you like most about being a part of the Curve community?

Empowering to be part of such a great group of women who want to be armed with knowledge and take control of their finances. Exciting times!