This week's Money Diary is for anyone who's ever felt like their relationship with money was shaped long before they earned their first paycheck.

Growing up, money was always part of the conversation in her house. But not in a good way.

She watched her mum give up career opportunities, financial independence and choices, while money was treated as something that belonged to someone else. And without realising it, she carried those lessons into adulthood. Spending became freedom. Saving felt impossible. And for years, she bounced between worrying about money and avoiding it altogether.

At 31, things look very different.

She's earning around $130,000 a year in mining recruitment, has built her savings to $60,000, started investing, and is on track to hit $90,000 in savings by the end of the year. Not because she's perfect with money, but because she finally realised that financial security isn't about restriction. It's about choice.

We chat about growing up in a household where money created tension, the spending habits that took years to unlearn, the pressure to buy property when everyone around you seems to be getting ahead, and why she's determined to create financial independence for herself, even while in a loving long-term relationship.

This conversation felt like such an important reminder that your money story doesn't have to end where it started.
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Acknowledgement of Country By Nartarsha Bamblett aka Queen Acknowledgements.

The advice shared on She's On The Money is general in nature and does not consider your individual circumstances. She's On The Money exists purely for educational purposes and should not be relied upon to make an investment or financial decision. If you do choose to buy a financial product, read the PDS, TMD and obtain appropriate financial advice tailored towards your needs.  Victoria Devine and She's On The Money are authorised representatives of Money Sherpa PTY LTD ABN - 321649 27708,  AFSL - 4451289

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