Investor Journeys—Hannah HeskettInvestor Journeys—Hannah Heskett

Tell us about your first investment!

My first investment was probably when cryptocurrencies went off. My partner and brother were well and truly into it, and after seeing their returns, I thought ‘why not?’. Cryptocurrency is an extremely high-risk investment, so with the money I’d been putting aside, I had to be happy with potentially taking a fall. At that stage, I didn't know a lot about investing. I wanted to learn more but wasn't quite sure how. 

I started making my own investment decisions when I was introduced to Sharesies. Compared to my cryptocurrency, my risk is spread out a lot more across my diversified Sharesies portfolio. It’s extremely user-friendly and makes knowing what to do seem easy. If you have questions, it’s simple to get answers and doesn't feel like such a daunting task. 

Why did you start investing?

I guess I’ve always wanted to make money—I always wanted to do something with my money that was a bit more than a savings account. After selling my first small business, I didn't want my hard work to go to waste and I knew I had to make some smart choices with money. I’d heard of Australian companies similar to Sharesies, and I’d been listening to podcasts about money, all of which indicated that investing could be my next step. I wasn't quite sure how to go about it and felt like I knew nothing. It was perfect timing that a workmate of mine told me about Sharesies and it all kicked off from there.

What do you like about having an investment?

I love that you have more power to do more with your money. Investing shouldn't be hard and it doesn't have to be. Even when I invest a small amount, I love how fun it is. Watching shares go up and down is all part of it! It feels good knowing that I'm trying to learn about investing even with small amounts and getting exposure to what investing is like. I honestly can't see a reason why you wouldn't give it a go. Investing never seemed like an option, and I guess you don't get taught a whole lot about it. If you want to do more with your money, give it a go! 

How has your attitude towards money changed since you became an investor?

Before I started, I’d never really thought about investing. Since knowing more, I love having conversations with people about it and their journeys. It’s a good way to break down the awkward stigma around money and have more open conversations. I’ve been fortunate enough to be around like-minded people within my immediate circles who have always helped push me in the right direction. I think this helps people to be more honest and think twice about what they do with money. Hopefully, it motivates people to be better with money.

What tips would you give to everyday New Zealanders who might think you need loads of money to invest?

Every. Little. Bit. Counts. It’s like secret savings and a great way to have less access to willy nilly spending. If I have money in my savings, it’s too easy to dip out of, but if you invest what you can, you really think before you withdraw it. 

I also wish I’d started earlier! I would tell my younger self to invest as much as I could afford even if it was $5 a week. It all counts. Listen to ‘The Pineapple Project’ and ‘She’s on the Money’ if you want some money motivation! They’re both targeted to young females in a fun and easy-to-understand podcast. It’s an easy way for the gals to learn more about money!

Commit to long-term habits and make the most of what you do have. Start now and make deposits when you have disposable income. Without creating these habits, I would have never been able to start a business. It started with savings, which invested in another small business, and started to have a snowball effect. Eventually, I had enough to put some money towards the ice cream truck. Prioritise what’s more important to you. I know that new dress looks fabulous now, but is it really going to help you reach your money goals?