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By Lloyd Uren*
Even if you’re not an avid TV game show fan, you’ve probably heard of ‘Who wants to be a millionaire?’ Its appeal lies in the chance of walking away much richer if you’ve made the correct multiple-choice answers. The thing is, even if you know many of the answers, there’s still a lot of luck involved.
Luck is something that you definitely don’t want to rely on if you’re planning to build your personal wealth. Ask any self-made millionaire what their recipe for success is and what you won’t hear is: Oh, I was just hoping to get lucky.
Wealth is built up over time and comes from actively working towards goals that will help you achieve the status you desire. Even if your goal is not to achieve multi-millionaire status, the habits of self-made millionaires can teach us all valuable personal finance lessons.
Here are the top 5 tips I’ve gathered from people who’ve attained millionaire status through hard work and commitment to a plan.
Reframe the conversation
You’ve heard it all before: save, save, save. But if you want to really build wealth, you’ve got to shift gears to investing. Think of saving like keeping your money under the mattress; it’s safe, but it’s not doing much.
Investing, on the other hand, is like planting your money in the ground and watching it grow over time. It’s about making your money work for you, so you can see real growth in your wealth.
One goal at a time
When it comes to getting your finances on track, trying to do everything at once is like spinning your wheels in the mud—you won’t get far. The trick is to focus on one goal at a time.
Whether that’s paying off a chunk of debt, saving up for a dream vacation, or putting money into an investment fund, give it your all. Once you’ve nailed that goal, move on to the next thing. This way, you’re not overwhelmed, and you can see the progress you’re making.
Budgeting isn’t boring. It’s your blueprint
Now, I know the word ‘budgeting’ might make your eyes glaze over but hear me out. Having a budget is like having a map on a road trip. It shows you where your money’s going, so you can make sure it’s going towards the things that matter to you.
If you apply the previous point about focusing on one goal at a time, then the need for a monthly plan makes all the more sense. A budget places you in control and helps you make smart choices about how you use your cash.
Invest in your most valuable asset
This might not be self-evident to all, but the best investment you can ever make is in yourself. Whether it’s learning a new skill, getting some extra education, or just working on becoming the best version of yourself, investing in you is a sure-fire way to increase your value.
So, whether you are an entrepreneur or working a regular 9-to-5, investing in yourself can increase your earning power – in your business or profession – which will help you move closer to your financial goals.
Sometimes, you need a pro
Think of it this way – even the best athletes in the world have coaches. When it comes to managing your money and growing your wealth, having a financial advisor by your side can make a huge difference.
They’re like your personal financial coach, helping you make the right moves, avoid common pitfalls, and get the most out of your money. If you haven’t already, I strongly suggest that you look for a financial advisor who can understand your needs and help devise a plan to reach your financial goals.
Whether you’re aiming to accumulate mega millions, or simply to retire comfortably, it isn’t about finding some secret shortcut: it’s about making smart, consistent choices with your money.
By following this straightforward advice, you’re not just hoping your dreams of wealth come true, you’re taking real, actionable steps towards making that dream a reality.
* Lloyd Uren is a junior planner at Brenthurst Wealth Granger Bay, Cape Town
Megan joined the Brenthurst Wealth team in March 2026 as an Administrative and Fiduciary Services Assistant at our Val de Vie Office in the Western Cape. Prior to joining Brenthurst, Megan gained three years of experience in the retail sector, where she developed management and client service skills.
I obtained my National Diploma in Financial Information Systems from the Cape Peninsula University of Technology in 1999 and have worked in the wealth management industry since January 2000. Over the years, I have gained extensive experience in various roles, including Portfolio Manager Assistant, Planner Assistant, and Paraplanner.
Esmarelda Isaacs-Andreas joined the Brenthurst Wealth Stellenbosch office in October 2025, taking on the dual role of Receptionist and Fiduciary Administrator.
I obtained my National Diploma in Financial Information Systems from the Cape Peninsula University of Technology in 1999 and have worked in the wealth management industry since January 2000. Over the years, I have gained extensive experience in various roles, including Portfolio Manager Assistant, Planner Assistant, and Paraplanner.
Ashley joined Brenthurst Wealth in January 2025 as Office Administrative Assistant and Receptionist for the Stellenbosch Office.
René Heystek joined Brenthurst Wealth in November 2023, as receptionist and administrative assistant in the newly established George/Garden Route office.
Michelle Heystek has built a career in the financial services over the last two decades, after obtaining her B.Com degree in Financial Management in 2005. Once she joined Brenthurst in 2006, she continued her academic journey, obtaining her Certificate in Wealth Management from INSETA in 2007, followed by a Postgraduate Diploma in Financial Planning from the University of the Free State. In 2008, she earned the Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) designation.
Anelle joined Brenthurst Wealth as a Receptionist and Administrative Assistant to Brian Butchart in the Cape Town office in December 2023. She has a wealth of knowledge from working as a liaison between Financial Advisers and clients at TMA and Absa Investment Management Services (Aims) since 1998. She obtained her B. com degree from the University of Port Elizabeth in 1997.
ADMITTED ATTORNEY | FINANCIAL PLANNER & HEAD OF BRENTHURST FOURWAYS
Sanet was appointed in April 2020, joining our Cape Town team as an Executive Administration Assistant to Renee Eagar. She has been in the financial services industry since 1990. Her previous experience includes positions at Sanlam, BJM and ABSA. She spent her last 12 years working at Alexander Forbes Private Client Wealth as a Senior Wealth Management Assistant. She has received numerous accolades over the years which include but not limited to, Alexander Forbes Client Service Excellence – Silver award in 2014,2015 and 2017. Sanet has also obtained her Certificate in Wealth Management (NQF 5) in 2012 and achieved “Best Student of the Year” from Moonstone.
Maria Smit is a Certified Financial Planner® with over 10 years of experience in the financial planning industry.
