Max Gerstein Independant Financial Advisor

  Feeling overwhelmed with money isn't unusual—it's normal. Most of us were never taught personal finance and have stumbled our way through, hoping things would somehow improve. Maybe you've noticed that despite working harder and earning more, you never feel truly secure financially. This guide provides clear, achievable steps to start taking control of your finances right away. Keep it visible, and tick off each goal as you accomplish it. Every tick is a step towards empowerment and financial freedom. Step 1: Quick Financial Check Many people dread detailed budgeting, but there's a simpler way. Check and note your bank account balance the day before payday each month. By consistently doing this, you’ll quickly see if you're genuinely saving money or simply breaking even or overspending. This awareness is powerful, providing clarity about your real financial habits without the tedious task of tracking every purchase. Step 2: Automate Small Savings The hardest par...

Are You Financially Fit? A Personal Finance Assessment That Could Change Everything How long have you been working—and how much have you saved? Be honest. Now take that number, divide it by the years you’ve worked, and project that average forward to retirement. Still feel confident? If you stopped working tomorrow, could you live off what you’ve saved for the next 30, 40, even 50 years? For most people, the answer is a hard no. But here’s the thing: it's not because you're not earning enough. It’s because you're not paying attention. Most people believe they’re 'doing okay' with money—until they realise they’ve been winging it their whole adult life. They’ve never sat down to actually assess their financial health. They don’t track their spending. They don’t have a clear plan. And they certainly don’t know if they’re on track to retire. This article isn’t here to sugar-coat things. It’s here to hold up a mirror and make you take a hard look at your financial habits...

  It's Your Fault You're Broke: Stop Blaming and Start Taking Responsibility Living paycheck to paycheck? Frustrated by your dwindling bank account while others around you seem to be thriving and enjoying life? Here's a hard truth: In 99% of cases, it’s your fault . Your financial struggles aren't due to a lack of income, the economy, or bad luck, they're a direct result of your choices and mindset. It's time to confront this reality, take responsibility, and transform your financial future. I met a worker last week, earning 1300aed a month (353 USD) many would look at him and be like, there’s not a chance that he is saving anything, it’s impossible. He was saving… He was saving 500 aed (136 USD) each month. I was shocked, here was a man being paid very little and still managing to save over 30% of his income each month. I have clients on 100x of his income and barely manage to save at all. He is truly an inspiration, and a stark reminder of how brutal Lifestyl...