Akuc Marine
We rarely talk about the psychological excitement that comes with accessing credit, the feeling of suddenly having opportunities within reach, the confidence that comes with financial access, and the temptation to believe that money alone equals success.
Years ago, I took out my first loan with a clear vision: to build a home. It was a responsible goal, built around creating something sustainable. But when the money entered my account, the plan began to evolve. The dream of a home slowly shifted into the desire for a car. Then came business ideas, new opportunities, and decisions made from excitement rather than strategy. For a moment, I felt successful. I felt unstoppable. And without realising it, I started making financial decisions based on emotion instead of wisdom.
The result was a brutal, hard-won lesson: I was not managing my money from an informed point of view, Money, feelings and excitement were managing me.
The reality eventually caught up with me. Through a series of trials, errors, and lessons I wish I had learned earlier, I reached a point where everything I had accumulated was gone. That season taught me one of the most valuable lessons of my life: when you ignore the mathematics of money, money eventually teaches you the lesson.
Financial literacy is not just about knowing how to calculate figures or balance a budget. It is about discipline, decision-making, understanding risk, controlling impulses, and having the foresight to prioritise long-term wealth over short-term excitement.
Today, I am deeply passionate about financial literacy because I understand that access to money without knowledge can be just as dangerous as a lack of money.
A loan can build a home, grow a business, and create opportunities, but only when guided by a clear plan, financial discipline, and informed decisions.
Before you borrow, invest, or spend, take time to understand the numbers. Financial knowledge is not just a skill; it is a foundation for financial freedom.
I learned this the hard way.
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