At 14, she was living on her own and paying her own rent. By 21, she'd discovered she was six months pregnant after being told she'd never be able to have children. At 22, she was married. And by 23? Divorced, bankrupt and raising a baby on $27,000 a year. Honestly, where do you even begin rebuilding from that? Well, this week's Money Diarist did, and her story is something else. Now in her mid-40s, she's earning $310,000 a year (plus super and bonuses), owns two properties, has built an investment portfolio and even bought a mechanics business to create a future for her son. But despite everything she's achieved, she still struggles to feel financially secure and finds it easier to spend money on everyone else than herself. We're talking about rebuilding after bankruptcy, breaking generational cycles, the complicated relationship between money and childhood trauma, and why sometimes the hardest part of becoming financially successful is actually believing you deserve it.

SORT YOUR INSURANCE: If this week's Money Diary teaches us anything, it's that you never know when life is going to throw something completely unexpected your way. And by the time you need insurance, it's often too late to get it. A huge thank you to our long-standing partner Skye Wealth for bringing this episode to life. We only ever partner with people we genuinely trust, and if you've been putting off sorting your personal insurance, consider this your sign. Find out what cover you might need and get started here.

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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 - 451289.