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Author: Lyndsay Barr

Giving Back in Action: Allan and Angie Chandler

Written by Lyndsay Barr on . Posted in Client Story, Give Back. No Comments on Giving Back in Action: Allan and Angie Chandler

At Retire Successfully, we believe that achieving a sense of balance is fundamental to a successful retirement. Life encompasses many different facets, and when one is neglected, it can impact the others.

One of these is Give Back.

For Chartered clients Angie and Allan Chandler, this is exactly what their retirement has become.

Now living in Hillcrest, Allan and Angie are both retired after long and dedicated careers. Angie worked in midwifery for over 35 years, largely at Parklands Hospital in Overport, Durban, while Allan spent his career in education, most recently as headmaster of Thomas More College in Kloof.

Their introduction to the Robinhood Foundation came through Angie’s walking group, where a fellow member mentioned that volunteers were needed. They joined after Angie retired, having both expressed a desire to continue giving of their time.

Their volunteer work has become an important part of their lives. As they shared:

“Our volunteer work brings a new meaning to our lives. In a world of confusion in many ways, we are able, in part, to promote goodness, equity, compassion, kindness, care, and most importantly, humanity. Bringing joy and sustenance to so many makes us feel better about the world around us, and ourselves.”

Their involvement with the Foundation includes a range of activities. Each week, they assist with “storage” in Pinetown, where large volumes of donated goods are sorted, classified and packed. Every fortnight, more than 1,000 sandwiches are prepared and distributed to schools in need.

They are also involved in packing and distributing Gogo Bags, which include food, clothing and school uniforms for grandmothers raising orphaned children. Volunteers regularly visit old age homes in both urban and rural areas, and at year end, the Foundation hosts “Bless a Granny and Grandpa” Christmas parties at around 20 homes, with gifts, music and dancing.

Other initiatives include assisting with the building of crèches and upgrading schools. Two to three times a year, Mahala markets are held in outlying areas, where elderly attendees are invited to select clothing, linen and shoes, and are provided with food.

The Foundation also hosts fun days at schools such as Fulton School for the Deaf and Ethembeni School for the physically disabled. Angie is involved in the “Love the Babies” initiative, preparing hampers for new mothers in state hospitals, and visits Philakade Care Home for the profoundly physically disabled on a weekly basis with other volunteers, to do simple craft and pampering sessions.

Across the Foundation, volunteers also teach maths to young children and support animal care and anti-cruelty initiatives. Genuine requests for assistance are rarely refused.

Through their involvement, Allan and Angie have seen the wide reach of the Foundation’s work across different communities.

Their advice to others is simple. For those wanting to volunteer, consider reaching out to organisations in your area. There are many who would welcome your help. In KwaZulu-Natal, you can contact the Robinhood Foundation.

A woman holding a hand knitted pink and white blanket
One of the elderly grannies looking after orphaned children
Clothing packed on tables for people to look through
Robinhood Foundation packets in the hands of 5 women

Retirement Lifestyle Estate in Hillcrest Le Domaine

Written by Lyndsay Barr on . Posted in Client Story, Lifestyle Estates. 2 Comments on Retirement Lifestyle Estate in Hillcrest Le Domaine

For many people, the decision to move is not about property, but about timing and choice. A retirement lifestyle estate in Hillcrest offers the opportunity to plan that transition proactively. It allows you to move while you still have the freedom and independence to shape your next chapter. At Le Domaine in Hillcrest, KwaZulu-Natal, residents enjoy secure living, strong community connection and seamless continuity of care within one established estate.

About Le Domaine

Le Domaine is a highly sought-after lifestyle estate in Hillcrest, KwaZulu-Natal, offering approximately 700 residential units, along with an additional 64 en-suite rooms within its assisted living and frail care centre.

The estate is primarily aimed at the 50-plus age group, but is one of the few lifestyle estates that allows people of any age to purchase property, with family life actively encouraged. Homes range from bachelor apartments to spacious three-bedroom units, and demand remains high, with properties often selling within days of being listed.

Why Choose a Retirement Lifestyle Estate in Hillcrest?

Residents benefit from access-controlled security, extensive lifestyle facilities, on-site healthcare services, and prioritised emergency medical response.

Homes range from bachelor apartments to spacious three-bedroom units. This flexibility allows buyers to choose a space that suits their current needs while planning for the future.

Situated in the heart of Hillcrest, KwaZulu-Natal, the estate offers both tranquillity and convenience, with easy access to local shops, medical facilities and community services.

👉 Click here to read more about the estate.

Independent Living with Continuity of Care at Le Domaine

Meet Le Domaine resident Wendy Bezuidenhout

Wendy Bezuidenhout has lived at Le Domaine since 2007 and offers a deeply personal perspective on life within the estate. Her late husband, John, was the developer behind Le Domaine, and Wendy supported him in the vision that shaped it from the beginning. Today, she also works as the administrator of the estate’s care centre. As a result, she has a unique understanding of how residents’ needs evolve over time.

For Wendy, Le Domaine was never just about property or facilities. It was about creating an environment where people could transition through life’s later chapters with dignity, continuity, and choice. Living on the estate while it was being developed gave her first-hand insight into how important it is for residents to feel both secure and connected, without losing their sense of independence.

The Emotional Side of Moving Later in Life

One of the themes Wendy returns to often is identity. She has seen many residents struggle with the emotional shift that comes when careers end, children leave home, and long-held roles begin to change. Moving into a lifestyle estate can feel daunting, not because of the move itself, but because of what it represents. Importantly, it is not because of the move itself, but because of what it represents.

“Nobody likes change, and our homes are deeply tied to who we think we are. But my advice is always to make the decision for yourself, while you still have the freedom and health to enjoy this next chapter, rather than waiting for someone else to make it for you.”

Wendy believes timing is everything. Making the move earlier allows residents to really enjoy the lifestyle on offer, the social interaction, the activities, and the sense of belonging, rather than arriving only when care becomes essential.

Assisted Living and Frail Care in a Familiar Environment

A key reason Wendy chose to remain at Le Domaine after her husband passed away in 2020 was the continuity the estate provides. As residents’ needs change, they do not have to leave their familiar environment. Instead, they can transition from independent living to assisted living, frail care, or palliative care within the same community. They remain surrounded by friends, routines and familiar spaces.

This continuity is particularly important for residents whose families live elsewhere, often overseas. In addition, remaining in a known environment, with trusted support close at hand, brings reassurance not only to residents but to their families as well.

Community, Security and Lifestyle Facilities in Hillcrest

Wendy also values the balance Le Domaine strikes between privacy and community. Residents are free to live quietly and independently, or to participate in a wide range of social, educational, and wellness activities. From walking trails and fitness facilities to talks, music evenings, and group outings, the estate offers opportunities for connection without pressure.

Planning Your Next Chapter with Choice and Confidence

Reflecting on her years at Le Domaine, Wendy’s advice is clear and grounded in experience: plan proactively, make decisions while you still have choice, and prioritise quality of life. Ultimately, a lifestyle estate, she believes, should not feel like an ending, but rather a supportive foundation for the next chapter.

Picture showing the front entrance of the Le Domaine Lifestyle Retirement Estate Care Centre.
People taking a walk through the Le Domaine Estate grounds.
Front view of Le Domaine Lifestyle Retirement Estate building.
Back view of the Le Domaine Lifestyle Retirement Estate building.
Aerial view of Le Domaine Lifestyle Retirement Estate

La Dolce Vita: Pam and Errol’s Italian Escapade

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From the moment Pam and Errol glimpsed Rome’s ancient skyline, their Italian journey unfolded with unforgettable moments, laughter, and discovery. Travelling with a close-knit group of American friends, they blended guided tours with spontaneous exploration, savouring history, cuisine, and the simple joy of the journey itself.

A Journey Through Italy

Their group’s journey began in Rome, where they spent two and a half days exploring iconic landmarks, including the Vatican and the Colosseum. They highly recommend pre-booking “Skip-the-Line” tickets, which allowed them to skip the long queues and make the most of their time. A private guide enriched their experience, sharing stories and historical details that brought the ancient sites to life.

From Rome, they took the train to Sorrento for five days of coastal beauty and relaxed sightseeing. One highlight was a private boat trip to Capri, complete with a swim in the Mediterranean. Although the famous Blue Grotto was closed due to the tide, the dramatic cliffs and sparkling coastline more than made up for it.

Tuscany was their next stop—a villa nestled on the outskirts of the medieval walled town of San Gimignano, surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. With a rental car, the group explored Florence and Bologna by day, and in the evenings, they gathered in the villa’s kitchen to cook simple meals from fresh local produce. These shared dinners became some of the trip’s most cherished moments.

The grand finale was Venice. Arriving by train and gliding through the canals by water taxi, Pam and Errol checked into a 500-year-old hotel near St. Mark’s Square—modernised inside, yet brimming with character. On departure, they discovered the ultimate travel hack: a water taxi straight to the airport, ending their adventure in comfort and style.

Pam and Errol’s Top Travel Tips for Italy:

  • Download Citymapper: This free app is a lifesaver for navigating Italy’s cities. It shows you whether to walk, take the metro, or hop on a bus—no guesswork required.
  • Book ahead: “Skip-the-Line” tickets for major attractions like the Vatican and Colosseum are worth every cent. Skip the queues and spend more time exploring.
  • Be firm with taxis: Italian taxis are legally required to accept credit cards. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.
  • Know your gondola rates: The official price is €90 before 6 p.m. and €110 after. If you’re quoted more, walk away.
  • Avoid driving in city centres: Many Italian cities have restricted traffic zones for authorised vehicles only. Entering by mistake can mean a fine of over €150.
  • Self-cater in Tuscany: Shopping for local ingredients and cooking together was one of the group’s highlights.
  • Make the most of Italy’s trains: Italy’s train system is fast and reliable and connects most major cities and scenic regions. Booking tickets in advance can save money, and travelling by train is often more relaxing than driving or flying between destinations.
  • Use an eSIM for easy connectivity: Consider purchasing an eSIM before your trip or upon arrival in Italy. It’s a convenient way to stay connected without swapping physical SIM cards, and you can activate data plans instantly on your phone. Be sure to verify that your phone is compatible with eSIMs before purchasing.

We’d love to hear your story! If you’ve been on a memorable trip and would like to share your adventure, please email Lyndsay@charteredwealth.co.za.

Building Communities by Focusing on Strengths

Written by Lyndsay Barr on . Posted in Purpose. No Comments on Building Communities by Focusing on Strengths

“Go to the people.
Live with them, learn from them, love them.
Start with what they know, build with what they have.
But with the best leaders, when the work is done,
The people will say,
‘We have done this ourselves.’” – Lao Tzu

These words, written more than 2,700 years ago, are more than philosophy for Chartered client Janine Ward, they are the foundation of her life’s work.

For nearly four decades, Janine has dedicated herself to community development across Africa, guided by the principle that people are their own best experts. This approach, known as Asset-Based Citizen-led Development (ABCD), turns traditional development thinking on its head. Instead of focusing on what’s missing, ABCD begins with what’s already there: skills, passions, relationships, land, and resources.

As Janine explains, “The key principle of ABCD is to focus on what is strong, not what is wrong.” Asking people “What do you have?” rather than “What do you need?” creates a shift in perspective that is powerful and liberating. Time and again, Janine has witnessed the light bulb moment when people realise they already hold the tools to shape their own future. “Once people reach this point,” she says, “all I do is step back and watch them fly.”

Today, Janine is helping to spread this philosophy across South Africa through Love Cities, a movement that began in her hometown of Howick and has since grown to 11 towns across the country. Each community decides on its own projects — from clean-ups to coffee shops to housing initiatives — drawing on the unique strengths of its people and resources. By uniting municipalities, businesses, faith-based organisations and residents, Love Cities creates collaborative, home-grown solutions that build pride and lasting impact. In Gqeberha, for example, Love Nelson Mandela Bay runs a “One House a Month” campaign, renovating homes, dormitories and schools, while Love Paarl has created a coffee shop that trains baristas and doubles as a community meeting place.

Janine has also reached a milestone she has dreamed of for years. Together with a group of ABCD colleagues, she has just registered the ABCD Africa Association, a platform to connect practitioners across the continent. The Association will provide a space to share ideas, success stories, resources and work opportunities, and will officially launch soon with a virtual event. You can already follow their updates on Facebook.

And there is always room for more hearts and hands. Visit www.lovecities.org.za, explore the initiatives near you, and reach out to Janine or Matt to see how you can play a part in building a stronger, more connected South Africa

Get in touch:

Janine Ward – jwinspace@gmail.com | 082 956 0048 | LinkedIn
Matt Hogarty (CEO, Love Cities) – matt@lovecities.org.za | 082 882 2019

Beyond Inheritance: The Gift of Experiences

Written by Lyndsay Barr on . Posted in Client Story, Purpose. 1 Comment on Beyond Inheritance: The Gift of Experiences

When we think about the legacy we want to leave behind, it’s not always about financial inheritance or material wealth. For many, it’s about creating lasting memories, imparting values, and sharing meaningful experiences that will be remembered for generations. Chartered clients Trevor and Rina White chose a different path when considering their legacy. Instead of focusing solely on financial inheritance for their grandchildren, they wanted to create something more personal, something that would resonate with their family for years to come. Here, they share their heartwarming journey of crafting a living legacy through shared experiences.

“While discussing our estate planning, as guided by Chartered Wealth, my wife and I decided that our financial inheritance planning would be limited to our children, allowing them to decide what would accrue to their children (our grandchildren). From the birth of our two grandchildren, one now eleven and the other eight years old, we, as grandparents, have been involved in their early childhood development. We’ve taken them to and from school, sponsored and accompanied our granddaughter to piano lessons, and our grandson to jiu-jitsu lessons.

We decided that instead of leaving them money, we would find a ‘lasting experience’ that we could share with them as a family – something our grandchildren would hopefully always remember us for, as their Oumi and Oupi!

We considered a long list of possibilities, such as pleasure cruises, skiing trips, Mauritius, the Kruger Park, or even a visit to Disney World, just to mention a few. However, none of these really ticked all the boxes. We wanted to be together as a family, actively involved, while also considering the costs and ensuring the experience was fun-filled for everyone.

Having done a barge trip on the French canals nearly a quarter of a century ago, my wife and I felt that this could be exactly what we were looking for. It combined transport and accommodation in one, with the grandchildren being old enough to act as crew members when entering and exiting the many locks along the way. They helped the lock-keepers with opening and closing the manually operated locks and cycled into the towns and villages to buy fresh provisions such as bread and milk. As a health-conscious family, the grandkids cycled alongside while one of us jogged on the traffic-free cycle routes, which run parallel to all the canals, keeping up with the boat as it made its way along the waterways.

The trip turned out to be everything we had hoped for and more. The weather was perfect, everything went according to plan, and we worked together like a well-oiled machine. The grandchildren were involved from start to finish; they were never bored and seemed to love every minute. We, as grandparents, truly believe we have given them an unforgettable experience that they will carry with them into the future. And the best part? We were able to share it with them!”

Full Steam Ahead: On Track with Passion and Purpose

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What began as a simple search for a unique rental unit for their property, Little Orchard, turned into a labour of love—the transformation of a forgotten train coach into a luxurious retreat. Clients, Jeff and Sue Lawrence, inspired by the magic of their past train journeys, discovered Coach 26806, a weathered sleeper coach in Ladysmith. Though stripped of its former glory, it still held immense potential.

Transporting the 34-ton coach to Wakkerstroom was no easy feat, but Jeff and Sue were determined to bring their vision to life. This wasn’t just about restoring a piece of history; it was about creating an experience that would evoke nostalgia and craft lasting memories. Every detail, from the Rhodesian teak floors to the custom windows and vintage memorabilia, was chosen with care and dedication.

Stepping inside the train, you can immediately feel the love and thoughtfulness that went into its transformation. The upcycled rail brackets, Sue’s handcrafted stained glass, and original South African Railways touches all contribute to a space that feels luxurious, personal, and full of history.

It’s easy to get caught up in the daily grind and forget to live with intention. But Jeff and Sue’s story reminds us of the importance of living intentionally. Their journey beautifully embodies so many aspects of the Wheel of Balance: Play in their nostalgic escape, Work in their dedicated restoration, Purpose in creating a meaningful space, Money in transforming a relic for income, Relationships in their shared passion, and Learn in preserving the train’s history.

For my husband and me, staying at this unique accommodation was more than just a weekend getaway—it was a chance to reflect. As empty nesters, we found ourselves asking, What is our next journey? What excites us now? The experience reminded us that pursuing passion isn’t always easy, but it is worth the ride.

Our visit to Wakkerstroom coincided with Wakkerstroom 165 Stories of the Anglo-Boer War festival. The town, known for its birdwatching, history, and natural beauty, was bustling with excitement. From vintage car parades and Zulu dancers, Transvaal Scottish Pipes and Drums to fascinating talks on the Anglo-Boer War, Wakkerstroom’s charm was on full display. The friendly people, wonderful restaurants, and lively atmosphere made it an enticing destination.

If you’re looking for a getaway that inspires and offers a unique experience, I highly recommend visiting Wakkerstroom and staying in The Train. It’s a chance to rediscover what excites you.

“Sometimes, the journey leads us to destinations we never imagined, but those are often the ones that make the ride worthwhile.”- Anonymous

Riding the Waves of Joy with the Granny Grommets

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When Chartered client Ingrid Davidson and her husband Alistair retired to the coastal town of Plettenberg Bay, she was looking forward to peaceful mornings and long walks on the beach; what she didn’t expect was to find herself reliving the exuberance of her youth, thanks to an enthusiastic invitation from her dear friend, Mary Connock.

Mary introduced Ingrid to the Granny Grommets, a lively group of women who have turned the beach into their playground. Twice a week, this spirited group gathers at Robberg Beach at 10:00 in the morning, ready to embrace the waves and leave behind any cares that might have followed.

The Granny Grommets, as the name might suggest, is a group of women who have discovered the sheer joy of boogie boarding. The term “Grommet” originally referred to a young surfer or someone involved in extreme sports, highlighting this group’s youthful, adventurous spirit. But don’t let the “Granny” part fool you—this group is for anyone with a zest for life, with members of all ages joining in the wave-riding excitement.

Initially hesitant, Ingrid was quickly swept up by the group’s enthusiasm. The moment she caught her first wave, all her reservations melted away. The exhilaration of being tossed about by the ocean, the laughter that echoed across the beach, and the sense of freedom that came with every ride reminded her of the playful days of childhood.

And it wasn’t just the wave riding that captured Ingrid’s heart. After an hour of fun in the surf, the group plunks down on the beach, flasks of coffee in hand, sharing stories, solving the world’s problems, and indulging in delicious treats. It’s a time of connection, camaraderie, and simple pleasure.

Ingrid’s Wednesday and Friday mornings have become the highlight of her week. The Granny Grommets have given her a sense of community, energy, and an unexpected source of joy. Even the chilly water can’t dampen the spirits of this group—though, of course, they take a well-deserved break during the colder months when the sharks make their appearance.

So, if you find yourself near the shores of Plett, grab a boogie board and join them—all are welcome.

Filling the Gaps: How Making Appointments with Yourself Can Ease Transitions

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Transitions, whatever they may be, often involve a change in routine. Whether it’s adjusting to an empty nest, retirement, or another significant life shift, these changes can leave us feeling unmoored, unsure of how to fill the time and space once occupied by familiar activities and responsibilities.

As I transitioned into an empty nest, I found myself slipping into a slump where weeks seemed to blur together. The routine and purpose once defined by my children’s needs were suddenly gone, leaving an unsettling emptiness. I realised that if I didn’t make some changes, I could easily become stuck in this rut.

To bring structure and purpose back into my life, I began making weekly appointments with myself. These weren’t about filling my schedule with busy work; they were about reconnecting with myself and exploring new interests to fill the gaps left by my children.

Last week, my self-imposed appointments included two spinning classes, evening walks with the dogs, and an embroidery class with a friend. These activities weren’t chosen because of a deep passion but rather as a way to stay accountable to myself. Some, like spinning, offered a physical outlet, while others, like the embroidery class, were a chance to try something new, even if embroidery isn’t in my future.

This week, I’m excited to dust off my camera and spend time in the garden taking pictures before dusk—an activity that reconnects me with my love for photography. I’ve also planned a date night with my husband and a visit to Exclusive Books to browse, something I’ve always loved but haven’t made time for in a while.

Through this process, I’ve learned that transitions like these can leave you feeling lost, unsure of your direction, and disconnected from the routines that once anchored you. But by committing to these weekly appointments, I’ve found a way to fill the gaps that were left behind. Even when I don’t enjoy every new thing I try, the act of making these commitments keeps me accountable, pushing me to stay active and engaged rather than slipping back into that initial slump.

Here are a few tips that might help you navigate your own transitions:

  • Try New Things: Step out of your comfort zone and explore new activities. Even if they don’t all become lifelong passions, they can help you discover new interests and keep your mind engaged.
  • Reconnect with Old Passions: Use this time to revisit hobbies or interests that you may have set aside. Whether it’s a creative pursuit, gardening, or volunteering, reconnecting with old passions can bring a sense of fulfilment.
  • Set Small, Achievable Goals: Start with small goals that are easy to accomplish. As you meet these goals, you’ll build confidence and momentum, making it easier to tackle bigger challenges.
  • Find a Community: Transitions can feel isolating. Joining a group or class related to your interests can help you build a new social circle and share experiences with others going through similar changes.

By setting aside time each week for intentional activities, you can begin to carve out a new path and find purpose, no matter what transition you are going through.

Faith and Flour: Eddie’s Journey from Finance to Baking

Written by Lyndsay Barr on . Posted in Client Story, Work. 7 Comments on Faith and Flour: Eddie’s Journey from Finance to Baking

After a distinguished 40-year career in banking, Chartered client Eddie Coetzer never imagined he would find himself deeply immersed in the world of baking. Having retired in July 2022, Eddie’s transition from financial services to sourdough starter began unexpectedly but with profound passion and purpose.

“In my wildest dreams, I never thought I would become a baker,” he admits, having never baked anything significant until recent times. His only prior baking experience was a cinnamon cake, fondly nicknamed the “Dallas cake,” during his childhood.

Eddie’s retirement coincided with a family crisis. His mother-in-law’s cancer diagnosis led him and his wife to the UK for six months. After returning to South Africa, he sought solace and a new direction. Eddie always liked the idea of a father figure baking something that the family enjoyed. His initial thought was a bread of sorts. Inspired by the prevalence of sourdough and gluten-free breads in the UK and Canada, his wife suggested he explore baking healthier bread options, particularly as she is gluten intolerant.

A course at Melville’s Crust and Crumb ignited Eddie’s passion for sourdough. “I fell in love with the whole process,” he shares. This enthusiasm quickly transformed into a small business, which he named ‘Sour Ed’s Bread’. Eddie began by baking loaves and sharing them with friends and family, who encouraged him with their positive feedback.

Recognising the health benefits of sourdough, particularly for those with gut issues and diabetes, Eddie expanded his repertoire. He took a gluten-free baking course, resulting in two popular varieties: whole grain blend and white blend gluten-free breads. These breads, praised for their taste and quality, are more affordable than store-bought options.

Eddie’s bakery operations are modest but efficient. He converted half of his double garage into a bakery with a deck oven and prover. Despite the challenges of working alone, Eddie’s dedication to his craft is steadfast. “I’ve baked over 1,200 loaves,” he proudly states, balancing his time between baking sourdough twice a week and preparing gluten-free options. In addition to bread, Eddie has recently ventured into making rusks under ‘Ed’s Rusks’. “I’ve baked 265 kilos of rusks in the past few weeks,” he says. This new product line has been well-received, adding another dimension to his burgeoning business.

His venture also includes selling at local markets and at a water shop, Agua e Vide, in Krugersdorp. Though expanding further is logistically challenging due to the thin margins and high labour intensity, Eddie is content with the current scale of his business. He maintains a Facebook page and a WhatsApp group for regular customers, ensuring a steady flow of orders without overwhelming his capacity.

A crucial aspect of Eddie’s journey is his faith. Deeply connected to his beliefs, Eddie feels that his newfound path is guided by God. His faith has provided him with the strength and clarity to navigate this unexpected career shift.

Eddie’s story is not just about a career shift but about finding joy and purpose post-retirement. His passion for baking has brought him immense satisfaction and a sense of fulfilment that was missing in his corporate life. “I never felt truly at home in the corporate world,” he reflects. “Now, I wake up excited about baking.”

His story is a reminder of the power of reinvention, faith, and the joy of finding a new calling, even after decades in a completely different field.

The Bittersweet Farewell: When Your Loved Ones Leave South Africa

Written by Lyndsay Barr on . Posted in Relationships, Resources. 4 Comments on The Bittersweet Farewell: When Your Loved Ones Leave South Africa

The thrill of opportunity and the promise of a brighter future—these are the images often painted when our children or grandchildren decide to spread their wings and fly to foreign shores. Yet, beneath the excitement and logic that propel us to cheer them on, there lies a profound and often unexpected grief. It’s a complex emotion, a bittersweet mix of pride and pain, that echoes in the hearts of countless South African parents and grandparents.

My own journey with this complex emotion began this month when my son Mike embarked on an adventure to pursue his master’s degree in international business at the University of South Carolina, a programme that qualifies him for a work visa and subsequent career opportunities in the United States, making it uncertain if and when he will return home. On the surface, it was a decision brimming with potential and excitement. Below this excitement, however, was a growing sense of emptiness. The realisation that my daily interactions, the shared laughter, and his comforting presence would be replaced by fleeting visits and digital connections was a stark and sobering truth.

It’s a grief that often feels at odds with the circumstances. Logic dictates that this is a positive chapter, a stepping stone to a fulfilling life. But the heart, it seems, has its own agenda. It yearns for the familiar, the comforting rhythms of shared existence.

This experience was amplified when I considered the impact of Mike’s departure on my parents. The passage of time, with its inherent fragility, casts a different light on these farewells. While I can still plan and anticipate future visits, their ability to do the same is limited by the uncertainties of age, making the goodbye even more heart-wrenching.

My mother found comfort in the words of Kahlil Gibran, which she shared with me. His poignant reflection on children as “arrows loaned to you by life” resonated deeply with her. As he writes, “They come through you but not from you, and though they are with you, yet they belong not to you.” These words, while offering little comfort in the moment, provided a broader perspective on the cyclical nature of life.

So, how do we navigate this complex landscape of emotions?

  • Acknowledge your feelings: It’s essential to give yourself permission to grieve. This isn’t about denying the opportunities or minimising the achievements; it’s about acknowledging the depth of your love and the changes that accompany this new chapter.
  • Build a support network: Connect with other people who are experiencing similar emotions. Sharing your feelings can be incredibly therapeutic.
  • Embrace technology: While it can never replace physical presence, technology offers invaluable connections and can help bridge geographical distances.
  • Create new rituals: Establish new traditions to mark special occasions. Whether it’s a weekly video call, a WhatsApp group, or a virtual family gathering, these rituals can provide a sense of continuity. My son created a WhatsApp group for the extended family where he posts videos, pictures, and daily ramblings.
  • Don’t be afraid of social media: If your grandchildren/children are on Instagram or TikTok, go ahead and create an account and follow them. This can be a great way to stay connected and up-to-date with their lives.

Remember, this is a journey, not a destination. It’s about finding a balance between celebrating their successes and honouring your own emotions. With time, the pain will soften, and the joy of their accomplishments will continue to grow. Hopefully, one day, the distance will feel like a bridge rather than a barrier, cultivating a deeper and more meaningful connection.

Beyond Forgetfulness: Understanding and Supporting Someone with Alzheimer’s

Written by Lyndsay Barr on . Posted in Health. No Comments on Beyond Forgetfulness: Understanding and Supporting Someone with Alzheimer’s

Chartered client Sarah knows all too well the long shadow Alzheimer’s disease can cast on families. Witnessing her father’s decline has been a heartbreaking journey, filled with frustration and a deep sense of loss.

“It started subtly,” Sarah recalls. “Misplaced keys, forgotten appointments, struggles to find the right words. We brushed it off as normal forgetfulness that comes with age.” But as time passed, the forgetfulness morphed into something more concerning. Simple tasks became overwhelming, and conversations repetitive. “My dad fell prey to scams,” Sarah shared, “which left him feeling vulnerable and embarrassed to admit his mistakes.”

Sarah’s attempts to discuss her father’s condition were met with resistance. “He wouldn’t accept there was a problem,” she explains. “It was incredibly frustrating. How do you talk to someone about a disease they refuse to acknowledge?” This is a common challenge for families facing Alzheimer’s. The disease’s insidious nature can cloud judgment and make admitting vulnerability difficult. But Sarah’s story emphasises a crucial message: early conversations about future care, even before any signs of dementia, are essential.

Wall of Denial

One of the hardest aspects was dealing with her dad’s denial. He adamantly refused to discuss his condition or accept help. This extended to finances, daily responsibilities, and his overall deteriorating state. His pride and stubbornness made constructive conversations nearly impossible. Sarah’s attempts to discuss planning and support were met with resistance, sometimes anger.

The Burden of Responsibility

As the signs became undeniable, Sarah’s concerns grew not just for her dad but also for her disabled brother, who depended on him entirely. The realisation that her dad’s declining ability to manage finances could jeopardise her brother’s future added immense pressure. He managed his own investments, paid for his son’s medical aid, and handled all financial affairs. If he were to pass away or become incapacitated, Sarah would be left to untangle the financial mess.

Taking Action

Over time, Sarah took incremental steps to secure her dad’s and brother’s future. This involved gathering information about his assets, creating a folder with important documents, and gaining third-party access to his medical aid. She managed to set up a trust for her brother.

Emotional Toll

The emotional toll of this journey cannot be understated. Witnessing her dad struggle with cognitive tests was heartbreaking. The frustration of his denial, coupled with the immense responsibility of managing his affairs, strained her relationships with him. It was difficult not to become resentful as her time and energy were consumed.

Practical Advice

For those in similar situations, here are some practical steps to consider:

  • Legal Preparedness: Understand the limitations of the power of attorney and consider appointing an administrator or curator for someone who loses mental capacity.
  • Financial Planning: Ensure all financial documents are organised and accessible. Gain access to bank accounts, medical aid, and other essential services.
  • Seek Professional Help: For guidance and support, consult financial planners, legal advisors, and medical professionals.
  • Emotional Support: Don’t underestimate the emotional burden. Seek support from family, friends, or professional counsellors.

Approaching the Conversation

Planning for the future empowers you to make informed decisions when the time comes. That’s why having open conversations, however difficult, is essential. They require a great deal of empathy and a willingness to navigate challenging emotions. Most importantly, they need patience, as reaching an understanding may take several conversations.

Remember, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone; organisations https://www.dementiasa.org/ and https://www.adasa.org.za/ are there to help.

Saying Goodbye to the Familiar: A Daughter’s View

Written by Lyndsay Barr on . Posted in Lifestyle Estates, Moving Matters. 4 Comments on Saying Goodbye to the Familiar: A Daughter’s View

Moving is listed right up there as one of life’s most stressful events – and having been witness to my parents’ relocation, I wholeheartedly agree. None of us thought it would be a daunting experience. My parents weren’t hoarders and were simply moving to their already-furnished holiday home, so the planning seemed straightforward. Sounds simple, right? Wrong.

No matter how decluttered you believe your life to be, moving is never straightforward and demands detailed planning. While the larger items were accounted for, it was the little things that took the most time. Here is what I learned in the process:

The Challenge of Letting Go: Sentimental Treasures and a Lifetime of Memories

You’d be surprised at how much you can accumulate over the years, even when you think you’re living simply. My seemingly uncluttered parents had shelves overflowing with outdated medical textbooks, endless photo albums, and keepsakes like my dad’s graduation and wedding suits. Each item held a memory, a story from the past. My husband couldn’t fathom why, as a non-smoker, I insisted on bringing home the ashtrays that were scattered around the house in my youth. Eventually, he wisely let it go. However, he drew the line when I wanted to pack the enormous puncher I loved using during countless hours of playing school-school. Packing forces ruthless efficiency. Deciding what to keep and what to let go of is a challenging but necessary part of the process. That’s the reality of moving – sometimes, sentimentality, however painful, has to take a backseat.

The Myth of the Helpful Child

I naively thought I could jump in and make decisions, but that plan fell flat pretty quickly. As much as I wanted to help, it was really up to my mom to face each item, revisit their memories, and decide whether to keep, let go or rehome them. My job was to support her, not take control.

Planning is Key: A Lesson Learned (the Hard Way)

Hindsight is 20/20. Here’s what I wish we’d done differently: planned ahead. Discussing what to keep, donate, or sell well before the moving date would’ve saved a lot of stress. We ended up with limited time, leading to a whirlwind of last-minute decisions. “Donate to Hospice” piles grew rapidly, but we could have sold more with better planning and more time.

Saying Goodbye: Leaving Hometown Roots

Sure, my parents were moving to a beautiful seaside haven, but leaving the town they’d called home for decades was a wrenching experience. Vereeniging, or “VTown” as it’s affectionately known, had been their home for their entire married life. My father practised there as a GP and my mother as a psychologist. Their three daughters were born there, and it was even where I met and married my husband. Our roots run deep, and saying goodbye to the familiar was incredibly hard.

Perhaps the most emotional moment for my mom was when Lizzie, who had worked for our family for over 50 years, came to say goodbye to my parents. These goodbyes made the move seem that much more difficult.

Embrace the Help (Yes, Even When You Think You Don’t Need It)

In hindsight, getting professional help would’ve been a lifesaver. The emotional weight of going through a lifetime of belongings was overwhelming. We also realised the benefit of having experts who specialise in decluttering and facilitating the sale of items. The medical textbooks were a prime example. We thought about donating them to a medical library but fortunately, a doctor friend visited to say goodbye, saw the books, and showed interest. It was comforting to know that these symbols of my father’s love for his profession wouldn’t just end up in a landfill.

The Underestimated Physical Toll

Don’t underestimate the physical toll of moving, either. In the days leading up to the move, my mom’s fitness tracker clocked an average of 16,000 steps a day – and that’s not including the lifting, sorting, and manoeuvring.

On a more positive note, my parents have now settled into their home, surrounded only by physical things that really mattered. It’s a beautiful and inspiring new beginning.

Granting Ourselves the Grace of Self-Permission

Written by Lyndsay Barr on . Posted in Purpose, Resources. No Comments on Granting Ourselves the Grace of Self-Permission

Inspired by Kim’s blog.

The Permission Slip Exercise

We all harbour thoughts, ideas, or beliefs that hold us back. Ask yourself:

  • What are the qualities, thoughts, or inner voices you need to banish?
  • What new beliefs and qualities can you focus on to allow yourself to thrive?

Answer these questions and jot down the limiting beliefs to banish alongside the ones to embrace.

Examples of Self-Permission

Granting ourselves permission takes many shapes; here are a few examples to explore:

  • Permission to Say No: It’s okay to decline requests that don’t align with your values or current priorities. Permit yourself to prioritise your own needs.
  • Permission to Rest: Prioritise your well-being! Grant yourself permission to recharge without feeling guilty.
  • Permission to Celebrate: Celebrate moments and achievements, whether big or small.
  • Permission to Change Your Mind: We’re constantly evolving. Give yourself the flexibility to change your opinions or plans as you gain new insights or experiences. It’s okay to pivot when necessary.
  • Permission to Pursue Passion: Make time for activities that bring you joy, even if they don’t seem practical.
  • Permission to Disconnect: In our hyper-connected world, grant yourself permission to unplug from technology to reconnect with yourself and your surroundings.
  • Permission to Ask for Help: You don’t have to do everything alone. Allow yourself to seek support when you need it.
  • Permission to Prioritise Self-Care: Make your physical, mental, and emotional health a priority. Grant yourself permission to invest in self-care practices that nourish and rejuvenate you.
  • Permission to Set Boundaries: Give yourself permission to set boundaries that protect your time, energy, and emotional well-being.
  • Permission to Just Be: Sometimes, we just need permission to exist peacefully in the present moment without striving or needing to achieve anything. Give yourself space to breathe, be comfortable in your own skin, and simply “be.”

Sticky Note Reminders

Writing your permission slips on sticky notes and placing them on your mirror, fridge, or above your desk serves as potent reminders and often helps silence the inner critic.

Your Turn

So, what are you going to give yourself permission to do this year? Share your permission slip ideas in the comments below.

Conversation Starters: Are You Avoiding ‘The Talk’ About End-of-Life Plans?

Written by Lyndsay Barr on . Posted in Estate Planning, Resources. No Comments on Conversation Starters: Are You Avoiding ‘The Talk’ About End-of-Life Plans?

For many families, the mere thought of discussing end-of-life plans sends shivers down their spines. Laden with anxieties and unspoken worries, these conversations often get pushed aside, creating an even heavier burden down the line. Parents might grapple with a mix of emotions – fear, anxiety, even guilt at needing support or burdening their children. Children, in turn, may worry about upsetting their parents by raising the topic. But here’s the truth: discussing end-of-life plans isn’t a morbid exercise; it’s a gift of clarity and peace of mind for everyone involved.

Let’s explore the contrasting stories of two clients and the valuable lessons they offer.

Client A: Open Dialogue

Sarah and her parents have had open conversations about their wishes for the future. Legal documents are in order, care preferences shared, and even funeral plans discussed. This transparency eliminates last-minute scrambling, eases anxieties, and, most importantly, allows Sarah to cherish each present moment with her parents, free from the weight of unknowns.

Client B: Uncertainty Across Continents

Now, consider Emily’s situation. Her attempts to initiate similar conversations with her parents, living miles away, have felt like pushing against a wall. Despite numerous efforts, the discussions haven’t led to concrete plans or answers to her pressing questions. Unanswered questions linger: Who makes decisions if one parent passes? What are their preferences for care and final wishes? Though named executor, Emily grapples with future logistical hurdles: time zones, legal complexities, and unfamiliar systems. These uncertainties amplify her worries.

While Sarah and Emily’s situations differ, they both highlight the critical role of open communication. Talking now, not later, is the key to avoiding future stress and confusion. Having conversations now provides clarity and reduces future anxieties. Open communication ensures your loved ones’ desires are understood and respected.

Starting the Conversation

Remember, this doesn’t have to be a single, daunting discussion. Take it one step at a time:

  • Begin with shared values: Start with broader questions about their priorities and future aspirations. What matters most to them? What legacy do they wish to leave?
  • Focus on present concerns: Talk about their current preferences for healthcare and living arrangements. This establishes a foundation for future discussions.
  • Listen actively and validate feelings: This is a collaborative effort, not an interrogation. Acknowledge their emotions without judgment.
  • Respect their pace: Understand that these conversations may take time and emotional processing. Be patient and supportive, creating a safe space for open dialogue.
  • Frame it positively: View the conversation as an act of love and preparation, ensuring a smoother transition for everyone.

Talking about mortality isn’t easy, but avoiding it carries a heavier cost. Remember, a little courage and open communication goes a long way. As Brene Brown reminds us, courage is not about daring to jump off a cliff. It’s about having tough conversations about our lives and relationships, showing up when we’re afraid, and doing hard things that matter.

Additional reading: The Importance of a Legacy Folder

Chartered’s Year in Review: Making a Difference Through Give Back Initiatives

Written by Lyndsay Barr on . Posted in Give Back, Resources. No Comments on Chartered’s Year in Review: Making a Difference Through Give Back Initiatives

Give back is one of the key components of the Wheel of Balance. It’s important to note that giving back goes beyond charity work; it’s about making a positive impact and establishing a lasting legacy. This can take various forms, including volunteering, mentoring, or supporting causes that align with your values. At Chartered, we strongly believe in giving back, not just during retirement but throughout our lives. That’s why we promote integrating giving back into the lives of our clients and staff. We provide numerous opportunities throughout the year for staff members to participate in give back activities.

This year, we partnered with the Sunshine Association, an organisation dedicated to supporting children with intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities, as well as their families and communities. The organisation offers a wide range of services, including early intervention, therapy, training, and support groups.

Our initial project involved establishing a thriving vegetable garden that helps provide food for the children and their families. Following this, we designed and constructed a sensory garden for the children. Sensory gardens offer many benefits for children with intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities, including sensory stimulation, motor development, cognitive enhancement, social and emotional growth, relaxation, and stress reduction. The sensory garden has been a tremendous success, and the children thoroughly enjoy exploring it. Finally, we sanded and painted the jungle gym in the playground.

Some of our staff members spent a wonderful afternoon at the Johannesburg Children’s Home, where they painted the pool fence. The Johannesburg Children’s Home provides a safe haven for up to 64 children who have been deemed in need of care by the Children’s Court. JCH cares for Orphans and Vulnerable Children who have been identified as disadvantaged due to physical, sexual, or emotional abuse, severe neglect, or abandonment.

In our Cape Town office, the giving-back initiative took the form of creating Santa Shoe Boxes. The Santa Shoebox Project is an organisation that collects and distributes personalised gifts consisting of essential items and treats for underprivileged children across South Africa and Namibia. Each year, the project aims to bring joy to over 150,000 children in need.

Meanwhile, staff from our Eastern Cape office assembled care packs for Vistarus Mission Station, an organisation that provides a safe haven for impoverished, homeless, and addicted individuals, with the goal of reintegrating them into society.

These give back initiatives served as a reminder of the profound difference we can make in the lives of others, demonstrating that even the smallest acts of kindness can have a ripple effect, creating a more compassionate and connected community.

Are you involved in any give back initiatives? If so, please get in touch, as we would love to share your story.

Spotlight on San Sereno

Written by Lyndsay Barr on . Posted in Lifestyle Estates, Resources. 1 Comment on Spotlight on San Sereno

Nestled amidst the tranquil surroundings of Bryanston, Johannesburg, lies San Sereno, an idyllic haven for people seeking a vibrant and fulfilling lifestyle. San Sereno was acquired in 2017 by Auria Senior Living, a company focused on setting a new gold standard in senior living and care and providing the best quality of life to their residents. This award-winning retirement village offers a harmonious blend of sophisticated living, personalised care, and a wealth of amenities, catering to the diverse needs of its residents.

San Sereno’s elegant apartments and villas provide a sense of spaciousness and comfort, each meticulously designed to foster a warm and inviting atmosphere. Residents can choose from a variety of layouts, ranging from cosy one-bedroom units to spacious villas, all equipped with modern conveniences and tasteful finishes. For residents who require some help daily, their Assisted Living Suites provide a welcoming living environment where their Care Team are always close at hand, ready to assist as and when required.

Residents have a variety of services at their disposal. They provide an array of daily services that cater to their every need. On-demand services include laundry, housekeeping, golf cart shuttle, concierge, and round-the-clock emergency response.

Air-conditioned cinemas, fascinating talks, inspiring cultural and social events and entertainment are just a few of the many social events. Residents have access to a state-of-the-art wellness centre, gym, heated swimming pool, as well as a wide range of activities such as strength and balance classes, aqua aerobics, cardio workouts, Pilates and yoga. Biokineticists, physiotherapists, sought-after geriatricians, audiologists, optometrists, podiatrists and more are available to all residents.

San Sereno operates on a Life Rights model. You pay an upfront amount, which secures the right for you to occupy and enjoy your unit for the remainder of your life/lives. During this time, a monthly levy is payable to fund general operating and common area maintenance costs. This levy allows Auria Senior Living to take care of community management, maintenance, security and the provision of services in the senior living community.

Click here to read more

Meet San Sereno Resident– Vicky Lavagna-Slater

Vicky moved to San Sereno in May 2022 after having called Vanderbijlpark home for many years. Her husband had passed away, and she craved companionship. She particularly appreciates the friendly residents and staff, as well as the property itself, particularly the meticulously maintained gardens by the dedicated staff and residents alike.

Vicky has an active social life at San Sereno and plays bowls regularly, a pastime that has brought her immense joy and well-being. She also makes use of the heated pool to do aqua aerobics classes and enjoys a vibrant social calendar filled with art classes, bingo nights, and social gatherings organised by San Sereno.

Vicky describes San Sereno as a happy place where conveniences are close at hand, like a coffee shop, hairdresser, restaurant, and cinema. Adding to its charm is its prime location, making shopping excursions to Nicolway, Sandton City, or Fourways Mall hassle-free.

Vicky highly recommends San Sereno for anyone seeking a secure, welcoming, and impeccably managed community to call home.

The Never-Ending Journey of Learning

Written by Lyndsay Barr on . Posted in Learn, Resources. 1 Comment on The Never-Ending Journey of Learning

At Retire Successfully, we believe that lifelong learning is essential for a fulfilling retirement. Life is a tapestry of many threads; neglecting one can unravel the others. That’s why we’ve identified eight essential elements that weave together a balanced and meaningful retirement: work, give back, relationships, money, learning, health, purpose, and play. This month, we’re focusing on the “learn” element.

What is Lifelong Learning?

Lifelong learning is the continuous pursuit of knowledge and skills throughout one’s life. It is driven by a desire to grow and develop personally and professionally. Lifelong learning can take many forms, including formal education (such as attending college or university), non-formal education (such as taking online courses or workshops), and informal learning (such as reading books, watching documentaries, or engaging in conversations with experts).

The Benefits of Lifelong Learning

The benefits of lifelong learning are far-reaching – it keeps the mind active and engaged, which can help protect cognitive function and reduce the risk of dementia in later life. Learning new things can be an enriching experience, giving people a sense of accomplishment and purpose and helping them live more fulfilling lives. A wonderful added benefit is that continuous learning creates new opportunities for people to connect with others with the same interests.

Lifelong Learner: Meet Stephen Marcus Finn

Chartered client Stephen Marcus Finn is the epitome of a lifelong learner. Although Stephen, who’ll turn 75 next month, has a Master’s in English and a doctorate in Communication, he insists – and persists – in studying further – all the time.

In his mid-sixties, he returned to the piano to do his Grade 8 (the highest level) practical with the Royal Schools of Music, having to start from Grade 4. He did this in one year and, in the same period, went from Grade 1 to his Grade 8 theory exam, which he passed with distinction.

Six years ago, he completed his third year in Film at the Open Window and was also involved in acting at a private institution.

To celebrate his 70th birthday, Stephen gave a piano recital that included works by vegan composers, including the notoriously difficult Alexander Scriabin.

Three years ago, he obtained his Honours in Drama and Film Studies at the University of Pretoria, specialising in Research, Writing and Directing, and earned his degree with distinction. When he obtained his first Honours degree in English, he was the youngest student in his programme at the university; this time around, his fellow students were young enough to be his grandchildren.

Straight after a double-knee replacement, Stephen started writing an academic book on animal rights, Farmed Animals on Film: A Manifesto for a New Ethic, which took him a year to complete and was published by a major company in the USA. He has currently resumed his passion for writing novels, plays and poetry, but intends to continue (in the next year or two) with studies in … whatever he wants to do.

Stephen’s journey is proof of the endless opportunities for growth and fulfilment through lifelong learning. His story shows that it’s never too late to embark on a path of curiosity, discovery, and self-improvement.

Spotlight on Negester Onrusrivier

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Negester Onrusrivier is a lifestyle estate for the over-50s, situated in a tranquil coastal town near Hermanus, Western Cape, South Africa. It offers a range of property options, including full-title homes and sectional-title apartments within the care centre. The estate’s architectural design draws inspiration from Cape Malay houses, Stellenbosch’s Dorp Street, and modern farmhouses.

Residents of Negester Onrusrivier enjoy a range of amenities, including a modern care centre with 50 residential units, a lunchroom, a living room, a small library, a hair salon, and a clinic. The estate also offers different care packages to suit individual needs.

Negester Onrusrivier offers the perfect retirement lifestyle for those seeking a secure and serene environment with easy access to amenities and attractions.

Click here to view their website

Meet Negester Residents Peter and Jackie Mellowship

Peter and Jackie moved to the Negester North Estate in August 2014. Their primary reason for the move was downsizing to a more manageable property. Peter and Jackie were both in their sixties, and their children had all moved away (two of the three to overseas locations) and had their own families. They had a large property all to themselves with only occasional visitors.

Their part of the estate is purely residential, with no medical or care amenities, restaurants or communal facilities. It is a gated complex with 24-hour security and access control.

The bulk of the estate was designed with a 55+ theme featuring smaller, more manageable properties; in their case, their home is on one level, with wheelchair-friendly touches such as easy-access showers.

Socially, Peter and Jackie enjoy occasional lunches and dinner parties hosted by fellow residents at their homes. Having lived in the Hermanus area for 19 years, they most often socialise with friends made over the years rather than just in the estate.
Peter and Jackie have sound advice for others considering moving to an estate: carefully consider the type of facilities you will require in the future. Estates vary widely, ranging from purely gated communities to those providing comprehensive medical and care facilities. They know of several instances in which couples relocated to their estate, only to move once again shortly afterwards, because one partner needed access to medical care facilities. “Before making your decision, ask yourselves those tough questions,” recommend Peter and Jackie.

Spotlight on Eastlands Mature Lifestyle Estate

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Eastlands Mature Lifestyle Estate in Benoni North combines luxurious sectional title investment homes with premium wellness, healthcare, and frail care services within a secure and picturesque setting. Geared towards active and self-reliant individuals aged 50 and above, Eastlands offers a valuable asset promising a rewarding lifestyle and long-term financial returns. The Lifestyle Centre prioritises health and fitness with amenities like pools, a gym, and a bowling green, while the Healthcare and Wellness Centre, managed by CareLife, ensures residents’ future healthcare needs are met with a homely touch. Eastlands also provides convenient services such as pet-friendly units, a restaurant, and robust security measures, making it an appealing choice for retirees and property investors alike.

Click here to read more

Meet Eastland residents – Nico and Ellen Martins

Nico and Ellen Martins, residents of Eastlands Mature Lifestyle Estate in Benoni North, moved to this over-50s community in March 2018 after thorough research on retirement choices. They were attracted to the peaceful countryside environment of the estate, as well as its proximity to both the airport and city amenities. The flexibility of choosing from various building plans, ranging from one and two-bedroom units to three and four-bedroom free-standing houses, was another factor in their decision-making process. Nico and Ellen also considered the estate’s comprehensive facilities, including home-based care, health and frail care services, security, home and garden maintenance, and a restaurant.

Before becoming Eastlands residents, Nico and Ellen had spent 31 years in their Glenvista, Johannesburg home, cherishing that period in their life journey. However, recognising the need for lifestyle changes in preparation for the future, they moved to Eastlands. Despite their attachment to their former area, the absence of Mature Lifestyle Centres comparable to Eastlands led them to make the move.

They particularly appreciate the beautifully maintained gardens with ponds and walkways and the convenience of housekeeping, laundry, and gardening maintenance services. The estate’s friendly residents and the opportunity to enjoy walks in the adjacent farming areas are added bonuses. The estate offers a well-established library, a boardroom for business meetings, and a restaurant with an extensive à la carte menu, daily buffet meals, and a bar service. The restaurant also hosts regular functions for entertainment and private resident gatherings.

In terms of their social life within the estate, while they continue to work from home several days a week, Nico and Ellen find comfort in knowing that numerous social activities are available when they choose to partake. They often go on motorcycle rides with a small group and frequently organise dinner gatherings with their close friends from the estate at the restaurant.

The estate offers a wide range of activities, including bowls, table tennis, bingo, quiz nights, card games, and fitness classes. There are also opportunities for gardening and crafting, including a hobby room for sewing, knitting, and crafting enthusiasts. When time allows, Ellen enjoys attending the Courage Girls, who arrange coffee mornings and host interesting speakers.

When asked if they had any additional insights to offer, they recommended that anyone contemplating a move to Eastlands should start by visiting the estate and enjoying a meal at the restaurant. For them, living in the countryside is a blessing, although shopping centres may be a bit farther away. However, the estate offers a weekly shuttle service to a shopping mall and an airport drop-off service. Eastlands is ready for possible water issues with large water tanks, and the Lifestyle Centre is not affected by loadshedding as it has its own generator and solar power.

Spotlight on Sondela Senior Lifestyle Estate

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Nestled in the picturesque bushveld of Limpopo, Sondela’s over 50 Lifestyle Estate offers an idyllic retirement haven for those seeking a peaceful and secure living environment. With its close proximity to Pretoria, the estate provides easy access to city amenities while immersing residents in the breathtaking beauty of nature. Sondela is a premier Bela-Bela resort, offering a family-oriented atmosphere and a deep commitment to preserving and nurturing the natural environment. From rare game sightings to educational programmes and rehabilitation initiatives, Sondela embraces a holistic approach to life and nature. The estate’s retirement homes are thoughtfully designed, allowing residents to enjoy the convenience of nearby facilities and an array of activities, including game drives and access to the acclaimed Iketla spa. Whether you’re planning for retirement or already retired, Sondela Nature Reserve and Spa offers a sanctuary where residents can connect with nature, find tranquillity, and create cherished memories for a lifetime.

Click here to read more about the estate

Meet Sondela Residents Shirley and Philip Roach

The Roaches moved to the estate after starting the construction of their house in early 2021 and completing it towards the end of the same year. The allure of living amidst nature’s beauty, coupled with their desire to embrace a peaceful retirement away from the city, led them to make the decision to call Sondela home.

Having always been city dwellers and previously resided in bustling Centurion, the Roaches now revel in the tranquillity that Sondela offers. They thoroughly enjoy observing the diverse wildlife that meanders through their gardens and value their neighbours’ shared appreciation for nature. With Bela-Bela conveniently nearby for shopping needs and Pretoria within reachable distance, they have found the perfect balance between the African bush and necessary amenities.

Even though the estate is still relatively small, there is a great sense of community, and the Roaches have developed close relationships with their neighbours, enjoying get-togethers every so often. Additionally, they belong to a Pilates group that travels to Bela-Bela twice a week for exercise.

As residents of Sondela’s Senior Lifestyle Estate, Phillip and Shirley take advantage of the various amenities. They frequently explore the extensive bicycle trails, enjoying walks and bike rides amidst the picturesque surroundings. The swimming pools offer refreshing leisure options, especially during the summer months. They appreciate the privilege of going on game drives within the reserve, something they often do. Residents are encouraged to have friends and family visit them on the estate, and Shirley and Phillip have created special memories, particularly with their granddaughter.

Asked what advice they would give those considering moving to an estate, the Roaches emphasised the importance of familiarising oneself with the estate’s rules. They suggested carefully reviewing and understanding the regulations to ensure they align with personal preferences. Sondela’s strict rules are designed to protect and maintain the core values of the estate, ensuring unspoiled natural surroundings, a rustic farm-style experience, safety and security, comfortable living, an active outdoor lifestyle, good governance, financial sustainability, and competitive market value.

How balanced is your life in retirement?

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We firmly believe that achieving balance is fundamental to a successful retirement. Life encompasses various facets, and neglecting one can have a ripple effect on others. In the hustle and bustle of life, attaining balance often feels like an uphill battle; some areas are given more attention than others.

There is a fantastic quote by Jana Kingsford that says, “Balance is not something you find; it’s something you create.” Achieving balance is not passive; it requires active effort and conscious choices.

That’s why we have identified eight essential elements that form the foundation of a more balanced and meaningful retirement: work, give-back, relationships, money, learning, health, purpose and play.

It’s often a good idea to check in with yourself and reflect on how balanced your life is. As a reminder, let’s dive deeper into each area of the Wheel of Balance and explore what they encompass.

1. Work

Work in retirement goes beyond financial rewards and working 9-5! It’s about finding meaningful engagements that bring a sense of purpose to your life. Whether pursuing a passion project, starting a new venture, mentoring people or starting a side hustle, work adds structure and a sense of contribution to your retirement journey.

2. Give-back

Giving back is not limited to charity work; it’s about making a positive impact and leaving a legacy. It can involve volunteering, mentoring, or supporting causes that resonate with your values. Giving back to others lifts our spirits, makes us happier and makes our lives richer.

3. Relationships

True wealth lies in the people you share your life with. Cultivating and maintaining meaningful relationships and nurturing connections with family, friends, and community all lead to a fulfilling retirement.

4. Money

Money plays a significant role in retirement, but it’s not just about accumulating wealth. It’s about understanding your financial resources, managing them wisely, and aligning them with your desired lifestyle. Is your money serving you, or are you serving it?

5. Learning

Retirement is an ideal time to continue learning and expanding your knowledge. It could involve pursuing new interests and acquiring new skills. Embracing a curious and growth-oriented mindset keeps your mind active.

6. Health

Prioritising your physical and mental well-being is crucial. Regular exercise, healthy habits, and self-care practices ensure you have the energy and vitality to fully embrace life’s adventures.

7. Purpose

As we navigate through the various stages of life, our sense of purpose naturally evolves and transforms. With each stage, our priorities, values, and aspirations transform, guiding us towards new paths and allowing us to embrace the ever-changing nature of our purpose.

8. Play

Embracing play and leisure activities brings joy, relaxation, and a sense of rejuvenation. It’s about engaging in hobbies, creative pursuits, and experiences that bring you happiness and allow you to fully embrace the present moment.

Want to know how balanced your life is? Click here to take the Balance Test.

Retirement Villages Spotlight – The Retreat Retirement Estate, Hazeldean, Pretoria

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We will be interviewing clients who have chosen to live in various retirement estates around the country to learn more about their experiences. Please note that Chartered Wealth Solutions is not affiliated with, or sponsored by, any of the featured retirement villages, and the opinions expressed are that of the clients who live in these retirement villages.

Spotlight on The Retreat Retirement Estate – Hazeldean – Pretoria

The Retreat is a popular and well-established retirement estate in the lush and serene heart of Hazeldean in Pretoria East (adjacent to the Silver Lakes suburb). It offers 1, 2, and 3-bedroom Sectional Title free-standing homes with individually allocated exclusive use areas for gardens. The Retreat allows the keeping of reasonably sized dogs in fenced-off properties. In addition, there are spacious one and two-bedroom apartments available for a comfortable retirement lifestyle.

The estate boasts 24-hour security with a well-secured perimeter and one entry and one exit at the guardhouse, ensuring the safety and security of all residents.

For residents who require medical care, The Retreat has a Frail Care Centre with 52 beds and a team of medical professionals on hand to provide comprehensive care. The on-site medical services include 24-hour emergency services, personal health advice, and rehabilitation.

The Retreat also offers a range of social and recreational activities through its Social Club, which aims to foster a sense of community and provide entertainment for residents. There is something for everyone, from music evenings to the book club, bridge, snooker, happy hours, and even braais at the Lapa.

The Clubhouse offers facilities such as a gym, indoor (heated) swimming pools (3), and a steam room. There is also a well-established library, a beauty boutique, as well as a restaurant (unlicensed) which provides daily sit-down or delivered meals.

The estate’s beautiful gardens and walking trails showcase over 116 bird species and 40 indigenous tree species, allowing nature lovers to connect with the environment. Protected wildlife such as steenbok, rabbits, guinea fowl, and others are free to roam the estate.

The retirement estate homes at The Retreat are available to residents who are older than 50 years. Currently, there is a new development underway, which is approximately 80% complete. This expansion aims to add around 75 new fenced-off homes with 2 or 3 bedrooms.
Click here for more information.

Meet The Retreat Residents Ronél and Charles Piani

Charles and Ronél moved to the estate in September 2017. Their previous home, a comfortable double-storey house with a beautiful garden, became a concern as they grew wary of using the stairs and the risk of falls and injuries. While in their late 60s, they began searching for a replacement and came across The Retreat’s advertisements for ongoing developments. They found an ideal site to build a 3-bedroom home initially intended for rental purposes. However, as Ronél made choices regarding fittings and flooring during the construction process, she convinced Charles that this was meant to be their own home. Fortunately, they were able to sell their existing home at a good price within three weeks and moved into their new home immediately upon completion.

There are many features at The Retreat that Charles and Ronél appreciate, including the free-standing concept of the houses, the beautiful gardens teeming with vibrant flora, birds, and other wildlife, as well as the inviting walking areas and nature park of The Meadows. However, the availability of 24/7 medical support and the use of the Frail Care facility, if needed, was the ultimate clincher for Charles and Ronél. They also take advantage of the on-site gym, restaurant, meal delivery services, hair salon, and medical services.

Charles and Ronél have an active social life within the community on the Estate. They enjoy their daily walks and often engage in intermittent chats with fellow residents along the way. They partake in social activities such as braais, especially with their close friends and neighbours. They regularly attend weekly teas and lectures that pique their interest. Ronél is involved in charity knitting and crocheting activities, while Charles takes an active role in the Retreat’s management as the Chairman of the Architectural Review and Compliance Committee.

Residents at The Retreat benefit from its close proximity to the Hazeldean shopping centre, situated only around three kilometres away. This convenient location provides easy access to a range of amenities, including Pick ‘n Pay, Woolworths, restaurants, and the Intercare Medical Centre with several doctors available. Furthermore, the Wilgers Hospital is conveniently situated six kilometres away.

Reflecting on their experience, Charles and Ronél believe that moving to The Retreat was the best decision they made.

Unleash Your Creativity and Boost Your Mental Health with Neurographic Art

Written by Lyndsay Barr on . Posted in Client Story, Learn. No Comments on Unleash Your Creativity and Boost Your Mental Health with Neurographic Art

Are you searching for a new way to boost your mental health and express yourself? Consider giving neurographic art a try. The technique was developed by Russian artist and psychologist Pavel Piskarev in the early 2010s as a way to help people express themselves and overcome creative blocks. Today, neurographic art is popular around the world as a simple and accessible way to engage in a mindful and enjoyable activity that can benefit mental and emotional health.

Some of Gill van Rooyen’s Neurographic Art

Neurographic art is an excellent way to reignite your creativity. As we age, our creativity can fade, but this art form offers a chance to discover a new outlet for self-expression. Neurographic art is accessible to all, regardless of artistic skills, and has no rules or guidelines for what your design should resemble.

To begin your neurographic art, start by gathering the necessary materials: a pen or marker and a piece of paper. You may also choose to have additional colouring supplies such as coloured pencils, markers, or paint on hand.

Next, find a quiet and comfortable place where you can focus on your drawing. Choose a starting point, such as a dot or a small shape, and begin to draw continuous lines and shapes that flow spontaneously. Allow your pen to move freely, without lifting it from the paper, and see where the lines take you.

As you draw, try to focus on the present moment and allow yourself to be in a meditative state. Pay attention to the sensations you feel in your hand and body as you create your design. You may find it helpful to take deep breaths and allow yourself to relax into the process.

Repeat the pattern until you feel that the piece is complete. You can add colour if you like, using markers, coloured pencils, or paint. Remember that there are no rules or expectations for what your pattern should look like, so allow yourself to be playful and creative.

Don’t be concerned about your artistic ability or the final outcome of your design – the process is what counts. So why not give neurographic art a try and see how it can benefit you?

Client Story Gill Van Rooyen

The Healing Power of Neurographic Art

Last year, Chartered clients received a retirement tip from us about neurographic art and the many benefits it can offer. One of our clients, Gill van Rooyen, who had always been interested in art, was intrigued by the concept and decided to give it a try. Since then, she hasn’t looked back.

Gill has no formal art training but enjoys oil painting and acrylics. What she found most appealing about neurographic art was the combination of art and mindfulness. Gill can sit for hours and let her creativity flow, which helps her find clarity and peace of mind. She is guided by her energy, which allows her to create beautiful art that is unique to her.

Gill shared her newfound passion with a friend whose brother was diagnosed with acute leukaemia. It became a healing practice for both her friend and her brother. They spent many hours in the hospital doing neurographic art, which proved to be a therapeutic and helpful activity. It helped Gill’s friend deal with her grief, and her late brother’s artworks were framed and cherished.

For Gill, neurographic art is more intuitive than colouring in. She did a lot of research, including looking on Pinterest and YouTube for inspiration and techniques. The practice of neurographic art allows her to be in the moment, focusing on the lines and shapes she creates. It’s a meditative process that allows her to express herself freely and without judgment.

Here are some links that Gill suggests to help you get started:

https://betterhumans.pub/how-i-use-neurographic-art-to-meditate-aab05663b771

Retirement Villages Spotlight – Amber Ridge, Howick, KZN

Written by Lyndsay Barr on . Posted in Lifestyle Estates, Resources. No Comments on Retirement Villages Spotlight – Amber Ridge, Howick, KZN

Amber Ridge Estate, situated in Howick in the beautiful province of KwaZulu Natal, offers residents a luxurious and peaceful lifestyle. Amber Ridge was released in August 2011, and construction was completed in 2014. Designed to emulate the successful look and feel of its bigger neighbour, Amber Valley, Amber Ridge is a separate development catering mostly to the retired market at affordable prices. However, it also shares many of Amber Valley’s, Amber Lakes’ and Amber Lee’s facilities by arrangement, while still having its own Body Corporate.

The large Community Centre is a significant feature of Amber Ridge, which represents the estate’s contribution to the concept of the “Greater Ambers.” The facility is shared by Amber Ridge, Amber Valley, Amber Lakes, and Amber Lee, and includes an auditorium and a string of Assisted Living Units (ALUs). The 350-seater auditorium is one of the many wonderful features of Amber Ridge, with a separate bar area and an 80-seater functions room. The auditorium has a suspended acoustic ceiling, a substantial stage area, audio-visual facilities, sophisticated stage lighting, and a high-quality sound system. The auditorium opens onto a large, covered patio overlooking a dam, adding to the serene and peaceful atmosphere of the estate.

Click here to read more about Amber Ridge

Meet Amber Ridge Residents Errol and Pam Cunningham

Chartered clients Errol and Pam Cunningham moved to Amber Ridge in 2013, seeking a quieter environment than the busy surroundings of Johannesburg. Having lived previously in Boksburg, Gauteng, they were drawn to the beautiful mountain view from their home and the various services offered by Amber Ridge, such as excellent frail care facilities. The facilities on the estate that they use include the dining room, library, and auditorium for presentations and concerts. Errol particularly benefitted from the high-quality frail care services. They also appreciate their close proximity to everything they might need – doctors, hospitals, lawyers, restaurants, supermarkets and shops. For those considering a move to Amber Ridge, Errol and Pam advise reaching out to the administration to receive answers to any questions. Amber Ridge is well-managed, and residents are kept well-informed about all aspects of the estate, as well as security issues in and around the town.

Preserving Our Legacy: The importance of recording memories

Written by Lyndsay Barr on . Posted in Purpose, Resources. No Comments on Preserving Our Legacy: The importance of recording memories

As we grow older, we often reflect on the memories we have created throughout our lives. These memories are an integral part of who we are, and they have shaped us into the person we are today. For many of us, the idea of writing down our memories can seem overwhelming, but it is essential to recognise the value of documenting our life experiences for future generations.

Recording our memories allows us to preserve a piece of our personal history for future generations. Our experiences, both good and bad, can provide valuable lessons for our children, grandchildren, and even great-grandchildren. Our stories can help future generations understand where they came from, the struggles their ancestors faced, and the legacy they have inherited. Our memories are a gift we can pass down to future generations to ensure our legacy is not forgotten.

Writing down our memories can also be therapeutic. Recalling our life experiences can bring back long-forgotten emotions and feelings. By documenting our memories, we can process and make sense of the events that have shaped us. This process can be incredibly healing and help us find closure on past experiences.

Everyone has a story to tell. No matter how ordinary our lives may seem, we all have unique experiences. We often underestimate the value of our memories and assume that they are not worth documenting, but our stories are essential to understanding the human experience. We can all learn from each other’s experiences and find comfort in knowing we are not alone in our struggles.

Understandably, the idea of writing down our memories can seem overwhelming, but many resources are available to help make the process more manageable. Some people may use technology to document their experiences, such as recording audio or video diaries. Many books and online resources are available that guide how to write down our memories. Jackie Lee-Son created a beautiful framework called A Place for Stories to help guide people through the writing process. Short chapters cover general themes (e.g., Education & Teachers, Careers & Work) to help you organise your memories. Click here to access her guide, which she generously shared with us. Print it out, bind it and start recording those memories. Future generations will treasure them.

Retirement Villages – Spotlight on Waterfall Valley Mature Lifestyle Estate

Written by Lyndsay Barr on . Posted in Lifestyle Estates, Resources. No Comments on Retirement Villages – Spotlight on Waterfall Valley Mature Lifestyle Estate

We will be interviewing clients who have chosen to live in various retirement estates around the country to learn more about their experiences. Please note that Chartered Wealth Solutions is not affiliated with, or sponsored by, any of the featured retirement villages, and the opinions expressed are that of the clients who live in these retirement villages.

About Waterfall Valley Mature Lifestyle Estate

Waterfall Valley has 241 free-standing houses within the gated estate. Waterfall Valley enjoys full reciprocity with Waterfall Hills, so residents have access to their frail care centre and a wide variety of lifestyle facilities just around the corner, including scenic walking trails along the Jukskei River, which link Waterfall Valley with over 35km of hiking and biking trails on the rest of the Waterfall City estates.

Click here to read more about the estate.

Meet Waterfall Valley Mature Lifestyle Estate residents Ronelle and Brian Baker

In around 2012, Ronelle wrote an article for Inflight explaining her and her husband Brian’s view on why they did not want to live in a retirement village. At that time, they believed they were young and strong enough to check into any facility they wanted when they felt the need. However, they soon realised that it was not as simple as it seemed.

Their decision to move from their home in Lonehill to a retirement village in Waterfall was triggered by Brian’s only sibling requiring immediate and life-threatening surgery in 2014, which resulted in her needing significant care. As a result, they realised they would be in trouble if either of them experienced something similar. They decided to live in an area close to where they had lived for the last 34 years, close to friends and their church, which brought them to the Waterfall/Kyalami area.

They have been living at Waterfall Valley Mature Lifestyle Estate since August 2015, and it has been a rewarding and life-changing decision. It is important to note that their Estate is not officially considered a retirement village, as they do not have the required services, such as frail care and assisted living, available to residents. Instead, their estate encourages residents to live in their homes and recommends making use of carers in case of incapacity or illness. However, Waterfall Valley Mature Lifestyle Estate does enjoy full reciprocity with Waterfall Hills, so residents can access their frail care centre if need be.

Purchasing property in their estate is on a lease basis, with the land owned by a landowner, and they have a “99-year lease” on the property. They do not have life rights or other retirement purchase mechanisms in place. The estate has levies, City of Joburg rates and taxes, and Eskom bills, but living on this estate is still cheaper than living in a suburban home. Many homes have installed solar panels to ward off the never-ending load shedding.

Homes in their estate have the same architectural look and feel, but each home and garden has its individual characteristics. The estate has a committed and enthusiastic Residents Association with volunteers covering areas of finance, security, leisure, healthcare, infrastructure, and maintenance, among others. The estate management team is closely monitored and assisted by the association and a board of directors, who ensure everything is managed correctly and financially appropriately. The gardens are managed and maintained by a gardening service, the security systems are exemplary (soon to be facial recognition), and residents have access to a fully equipped gym with a steam room, sauna, Zumba, ballroom, line dancing and aerobic classes, an Olympic-sized swimming pool, ballroom, auditorium, a well-equipped library, and a partially subsidised restaurant on the premises.

Numerous activities are available to residents who wish to participate, such as social bridge, pool, table tennis, Kaluki, wine club, bird club, U3A, Mah Jong, French conversational sessions, cycling, hiking, craft and sewing/knitting mornings, and many more.

Retirement Villages Spotlight – Woodside Village

Written by Lyndsay Barr on . Posted in Lifestyle Estates, Resources. No Comments on Retirement Villages Spotlight – Woodside Village

One of the major decisions people face when retiring is where they will live. The decision to move is an emotional one. Once the decision is made, many of our clients opt to move to retirement villages or estates. The traditional concept of retirement villages and estates has changed dramatically over the years, and the range of lifestyle activities and easy access to medical care and security now makes them an attractive option.

We will be interviewing clients who have chosen to live in various retirement estates around the country to learn more about their experiences.

Please note that Chartered Wealth Solutions is not affiliated with, or sponsored by, any of the featured retirement villages, and the opinions expressed are that of the clients who live in these retirement villages.

About Woodside Village

Woodside Village is situated on nine hectares in the sought-after Cape Town suburb of Rondebosch. This complex offers residents a peaceful and secure lifestyle, surrounded by natural beauty and modern conveniences.

Woodside comprises of 155 independent living garden villas and 52 apartments, as well as an assisted living facility. To the extent possible, they are able to deliver most care and support services in residents’ homes. The 1-bedroom or 2-bedroom garden villas range from 85m2 to 190m2 in size and come with attached garages and patios leading onto the garden. The apartments range from 75m2 to 120m2 and have a single garage alongside the apartment block. The complex is pet-friendly, so residents can enjoy the company of their furry friends.

The village is designed with residents’ needs in mind, and a range of amenities and services are available to make life easier and more enjoyable. These include a swimming pool, a clubhouse, a laundry, a gym, a cinema and a library.

One of the most significant advantages of living in Woodside Village is its location. The complex is located close to a range of shops, restaurants, and other amenities, as well as some of Cape Town’s most beautiful natural areas. Click here to read more on their website.

Meet Woodside Village Resident Barbara Gillman

Barbara and her late husband, Jon, moved into Woodside Village in 2019. They had already downscaled and were living in a lock-up and go near Cavendish, but when the opportunity arose to purchase a Life Right at Woodside Village, they jumped at the chance and moved into their two-bedroomed cottage with a beautiful garden.

One of the major drawcards was the security offered by the estate. Barbara loves the fact that she feels safe and that she can lock up and go and visit two of her sons who live overseas.

Barbara still has an active social life outside the estate; she plays bridge regularly and belongs to a book club. While she hasn’t chosen to get too actively involved in activities within the estate, she says there are ample options to do so. Friday night happy hours, Sunday teas, mid-week pub nights, air-conditioned cinemas, fascinating talks, inspiring cultural and social events and entertainment, to name a few.

Another plus for Barbara is the comfort of knowing that should she ever need it, Woodside Village has a step-down facility and assisted living should she require it.

When asked, Barbara says she has absolutely no regrets about moving to Woodside Estate. It suits her lifestyle perfectly. She advises anyone considering moving to Woodside to put their name down early on the waiting list.

If you live in a retirement estate and would like it to be featured in Inflight, please get in touch with Lyndsay@charteredwealth.co.za.

Click here to read the brochure.

Fancy a game of padel, anyone?

Written by Lyndsay Barr on . Posted in Play, Resources. No Comments on Fancy a game of padel, anyone?

This year we are focussing on trying new things and having different experiences because if we have learnt anything these past few years, it’s that life is too short not to live it fully.

Have you heard people obsessing over their newfound passion for padel and noticing padel courts popping up all over the place? So did we, so we decided to try it and can confirm that it’s devilishly fun.

Padel is a mix between tennis and squash. It’s usually played in doubles on an enclosed court surrounded by walls of glass and metallic mash. The court is one-third of the size of a tennis court.

Padel is a sport which combines action with fun and social interaction. It’s a great sport for players of all ages and skills, as it is both quick and easy to pick up.

Padel is not as dominated by strength, technique and serve as it happens in tennis and therefore is an ideal game for men, women and people of all ages to play together.

The game is quick and easy to learn, making it a fun and addictive sport to play. The service is made underarm using a short, stringless racquet with an elastic surface with holes and a low-compression tennis ball.

Shots are played either before or after the ball bounces off the surrounding glass walls, adding a unique dimension to the sport over conventional tennis. The scoring and rules are very similar to tennis, with the biggest difference being that the serve in padel is underarm and that balls can be played off the glass walls, similarly to squash. The rules allow for the use of the back and sidewalls, which results in longer rallies than in a conventional tennis match. Points are won rather by strategy than by strength and power.

Not many sports allow people of all ages to play together, but the good news is that padel is one of them! It is truly a cross-generational game.

If you would like to explore padel further, we suggest identifying padel courts in your area and finding out how to book a court and rent a racquet.

Do you play padel? Or is there another sport or physical activity you have discovered? If so, we would love to hear your story so that we can share it with other clients. Please get in touch with Lyndsay@charteredwealth.co.za.

Retirement Villages – Spotlight on Randjes Estate

Written by Lyndsay Barr on . Posted in Lifestyle Estates, Resources. No Comments on Retirement Villages – Spotlight on Randjes Estate

One of the major decisions people face when retiring is where they will live. The decision to move is an emotional one. Once the decision is made, many of our clients opt to move to retirement villages or estates. The traditional concept of retirement villages and estates has changed dramatically over the years, and the range of lifestyle activities and easy access to medical care and security now makes them an attractive option.

We will be interviewing clients who have chosen to live in various retirement estates around the country to learn more about their experiences. Please note that Chartered Wealth Solutions is not affiliated with, or sponsored by, any of the featured retirement villages, and the opinions expressed are that of the clients who live in these retirement villages.

About Randjes Estate

Randjes Estate in Highlands North, Johannesburg, offers a variety of independent and assisted living accommodation in their beautiful well established 42-acre estate. There are 204 Life Rights units on the property and 70 rental studio apartments. Their Mid Care (assisted living) accommodation can house up to 42 residents, and their Frail Care facility can accommodate 43 residents who require 24- hour nursing care.

Their Estate provides residents with a secure, vibrant, stress-free way of life amongst other like-minded people.

Their homes offer a lock-up-and-go lifestyle for independent residents while also providing the convenience of a range of support services. Click here to read more on their website.

Meet Randjes Estate residents Barbara and John Hyde

When Barbara and John put their names down for Randjes Estate, they were told to expect to be on the waiting list for anywhere between six and 10 years. However, 18 months later, they received a call to say that new apartments were being built, and the wheels were set in motion. Despite it being during the height of Covid in 2020, everything fell into place, and they managed to sell their house that they had lived in for 31 years and moved to Randjes Estate in July 2020.

They always knew that they wanted to live in a retirement estate. They never wanted to burden their children, and after suddenly looking for a place for John’s parents to stay years prior, they felt strongly that they wanted to choose where to spend their retirement years. They have two sons and two young grandsons, so moving to an estate close to their family was a deciding factor in choosing Randjes Estate.

Despite moving during the height of lockdown and not knowing anyone in the estate, as restrictions eased, they started getting involved in activities and have subsequently formed a tight-knit social circle. John always worried that when he retired, he would be bored, but their days are filled with activities that include long walks around the estate, playing bridge, and attending lunches and lectures. Their young grandchildren love visiting and riding their bikes around the estate.

Barbara and John have no regrets about moving to Randjes Estate. For them, it wasn’t an investment decision but rather a lifestyle one. Randjes Estate meets all of their needs and more. They couldn’t be happier.

If you live in a retirement estate and would like it to be featured in Inflight, please get in touch with Lyndsay@charteredwealth.co.za.

Mindfulness – a way of perceiving, thinking, and behaving

Written by Lyndsay Barr on . Posted in Health. No Comments on Mindfulness – a way of perceiving, thinking, and behaving

Life can feel overwhelming, frantic and exhausting at times. Just think of everything going on right now, our unstable economy, load-shedding, and interrupted water supply, to name a few. And it’s impacting our happiness and health.

As our minds fill with chatter, our worldview becomes tainted and distorted, and our ability to be present is lost. Mindfulness is a way of paying attention to the present moment. You would be forgiven for thinking that mindfulness is just an activity; in fact, mindfulness is a way of perceiving and observing, and it can be developed using various tools. Some of these tools include meditation, exercises, and breathing.

Mindfulness takes us beyond coping and making do. To be mindful means paying attention to what is happening in the mind, body, and immediate environment and remaining present. It improves in response to a straightforward meditation practice that increases awareness of thoughts, sensations, and feelings.

Moreover, mindfulness is not complicated. The practice can be as simple as an awareness of a simple daily task, and it doesn’t have to take long. Feeling unsure how to start, try these simple one-minute mindfulness exercises.

Mindful breathing

This is a chance for you to step out of the daily grind and allow time to be present with yourself; that is, being present with yourself and whatever arises in your mind and body. Take a minute to observe your breathing. Breathe in and out as you usually would: notice the time between each inhalation and exhalation; notice your lungs expanding. When your mind wanders, gently bring your attention back to your breath.

Mindful walking

You can practice mindful walking any time as you go about your day. It’s good to try it slowly at first, but once you’re used to it, you can practise it at any pace – even when rushing. Walk slowly: become aware of the sensations in the soles of your feet as they make contact with the floor and any sensations in the muscles of the legs. You don’t have to look down at your feet. When your mind wanders, use the contact of the feet on the floor as an anchor to bring you back into the present moment. Just take a minute to focus on the sensations generated by walking.

Mindful eating

Eating mindfully can take us out of autopilot, helping us appreciate and enjoy the experience more. The next time you eat, stop to observe your food. Give it your full attention. Notice the texture: really see it, feel it, smell it, take a bite into it – noticing the taste and texture in the mouth – continue to chew, bringing your full attention to the taste of it.

Mindful listening

Taking this time out to tune in to your environment and listen to what it tells you will help you bring mindfulness into the rest of your life – bringing your awareness as you move through the day. Take a minute to listen to the sounds in your environment. You don’t need to try and determine the origin or type of sounds you hear; just listen and absorb the experience of their quality and how it resonates with you. If you recognise a sound, label it and move on, allowing your ears to catch new sounds.

As Thich Nhat Hanh said, “With mindfulness, you can establish yourself in the present in order to touch the wonders of life that are available in that moment.”

The gift of preparation

Written by Lyndsay Barr on . Posted in Retiremeant. No Comments on The gift of preparation

Growing up, my mother was always organised. She filed everything, never kept things she no longer needed, or thought we no longer needed (my childhood cuddle bunny being one of them) and generally has a practical outlook on life. Her name is Patricia, and she is often appropriately called Practical Pat. None of her daughters have inherited this trait, and she often despairs when she visits me, and there are only two toilet rolls in the cupboard, no long-life milk as a backup, and three lonesome teabags in the tin. We often laugh at her extreme practicality, but in truth, it’s one of the greatest gifts she gives our family.

Her practicality means that she is organised and prepared for most eventualities, including her and my father’s eventual death. Just writing those words sends shivers down my spine and makes me want to close my computer and walk away from my desk, but it’s inevitable, and I could not be more grateful that she is prepared. Being prepared has taken an enormous strain off my and my siblings’ shoulders. When the time comes, we know that she has done everything she can to make the transition to life without them as easy as possible by allowing us to focus on our grief and healing.

My parents became Chartered clients just after I started working there in 2020. My mother spent a lot of time collecting all the relevant documents and putting everything together in the Legacy File that Chartered gave her. Her preparedness means that no matter what happens in their old age, when the time comes, we will not have to worry about where important papers are kept or what they want us to do regarding their care and even their wishes for when they die. This allows us to be fully emotionally present with them now and in the future. This is such a blessing because there are no uncomfortable conversations to be had, only memories to be made.

On the other hand, I have a friend who lives overseas, and her parents live in South Africa. Her parents aren’t well, so she visited them recently. While we were having lunch, the topic turned to their death and what happens when they die. Her answers broke my heart. She has no idea. She has no idea what would happen to the surviving parent, no idea what money is set aside (if any ) for their care, no idea where they keep any important documents, no idea who the executor of the estate is, no idea if they want to be cremated or buried and no idea what the financial implication on her would be should they need care.

They are the most loving and kind family who have always communicated openly except about the uncomfortable topic of death. This is the time when my friend should be soaking up spending time with her parents and making memories; instead, it’s an anxious time filled with uncertainty and fear.

Please have these uncomfortable conversations and give your children the gift of being prepared; they will be forever grateful.

Finding your ikigai in retirement

Written by Lyndsay Barr on . Posted in Purpose. No Comments on Finding your ikigai in retirement

As we face life transitions such as retirement, we often grapple with our purpose; we often equate not having a purpose to not having a personality or reason for living. There is a Japanese concept called Ikigai. In English, it roughly translates to “the meaning of your life.”

Finding your ikigai is a life-long process because it will change as you enter and exit the different stages of your life. As a child, your ikigai is to play and explore; during your school years, it is learning. Once you have finished your formal education, your ikigai is your career and family. But it is often in retirement that one’s ikigai isn’t clear.

A person’s ikigai can be anything: a passion, a dream, a mission, among others. It is something that gives you the reason to get up every morning. It’s what motivates you to keep going and gives you the drive to do something for the pursuit of that ikigai.

Ikigai focuses on four main ideas:

  • What you love (passion)
  • What you are good at (vocation)
  • What you can get paid for (profession)
  • What the world needs (mission)

The overlap between what you are good at and what you are paid for is your profession. On the other hand, what you are paid for and what the world needs is your vocation or calling. The point where what you love overlaps with what the world needs constitute your mission. Then lastly, the combination of what you are good at and what you love is your passion.

Where all four circles intersect is where you will find your ikigai.

The task of finding your ikigai can seem overwhelming, but there are a few tips to help you ignite your purpose.

Pay attention to what you do or think about

Many of the things we dwell on are usually the things we love. If you find that you lose track of time with something you’re thinking about, you’re interested and engaged, and that makes it a passion.

Think like a child

Believe it or not, many life coaches recommend this technique. Think back to the things you enjoyed doing as a child. For example, if you loved to listen to music, try taking it up a level by studying music or learning to play an instrument; if you liked colouring or drawing, try an art class.

Discover recurring themes

Take an inventory of things you tend to accumulate, such as books, films, etc. If you’re watching TV or reading, what do you watch or read about? If you go to a bookstore, what section do you go to? You might notice there are certain themes that attract you.

And if you are still struggling, answer the questions below to help you get started.

  1. When was the last time I was so involved in an activity that I lost all track of time, and what was I doing?
  2. What would I do if I didn’t care what others thought of me?
  3. When am I the happiest with who I am?
  4. If I were to die tomorrow, what would I regret NOT doing?

Remember that ikigai is not a destination but rather a journey of self-discovery so remember to enjoy the ride! Have you found your ikigai in retirement? If so, please let us know so we can share your story.

A grain of truth

Written by Lyndsay Barr on . Posted in Relationships. No Comments on A grain of truth

There is no doubt that words have power. Their meaning shapes our beliefs, drives our behaviour, and ultimately creates our world. Our words are powerful. They carry our thoughts, our ideas, our feelings and our intentions. Words contain our state of being, both positive and negative As author Yehuda Berg states, “Words are singularly the most powerful force available to humanity… Words have energy and power with the ability to help, to heal, to hurt, to harm, to humiliate and to humble.” Their power arises from our emotional responses when we read, speak, or hear them. For example, say the word “fire” while having a braai, in the workplace, or in a crowded theatre, and you’ll get three completely different but powerful emotional and energetic reactions.

So many of us are in the habit of using the same negative words repeatedly. The problem is that the more we hear, read, or speak a word or phrase, the more power it has over us. This is because the brain uses repetition to learn, searching for patterns and consistency as a way to make sense of the world around us. You may not remember the exact date of the First World War, but chances are you know the 9 x table off by heart because you repeated it over and over again, drilling it into your subconscious. Repetition is the most powerful tool to imprint something into our minds and keep it there.

Negative self-talk is so dangerous. Nothing has more power over our circumstances than the words we tell ourselves. When we assign a word or descriptor to ourselves and believe it (however ridiculous or untrue), we embody it.

A Japanese scientist, Dr Masaru Emoto, has given us physical proof that our thoughts, intentions and words affect the physical world. He discovered that water droplets that had been repeatedly exposed to positive or negative words, profoundly changed the water’s colour, shape, and symmetry. Dr Emoto believes that human consciousness has a direct effect on physical reality.

In his famous rice experiment, Dr Emoto placed rice into three glass beakers and filled them with enough water to submerge the rice. To the first beaker, he stated the phrase “Thank you,” “You’re an idiot”, to the second, and ignored the third.

A month later, the rice that was thanked fermented and gave a pleasant smell. The rice that was affronted turned black, and the rice that was ignored began to rot.

Regardless of whether you are sceptical of Dr Emoto’s experiments, there is no doubt that words have power with which we create our reality, so speak words to yourself that are kind, loving, positive, uplifting and encouraging.

Extract from The Last Road Trip

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Below is the letter that was read at Paul John Edward’s funeral, inspiring four friends to take their last road trip.

My name is Paul James Edwards, like most of us here, I was fortunate to live a life in which I managed to accumulate a certain amount of wealth. Enough at least to allow me the privilege of living in a place like this. There is no question that in almost every respect, Stone Well Estate is an Eden for people who have worked hard and now wish to live out the remainder of their lives in peace and comfort.

If not downright luxury. For those of you who don’t know, I came out here many years ago following the death of my wife. The truth is that her death hit me harder than seemed possible. So hard in fact that I was convinced that I would follow after her in no time at all. The way I saw it, there was no way I could carry on without her. Writing those words now, I realise how feeble that makes me sound. Like an old and sentimental fool. But it’s still the truth and I figure it’s too late in the day to start lying now. And so I waited to die. But the days still blurred into weeks. And the weeks soon came and went like autumn leaves being swept away in the wind.

One Christmas became another. And then another, for eighteen long years I waited. When I finally fell ill a few months ago and discovered the nature of my diagnosis, I felt only one thing; relief. My long wait was finally over. You see, I stopped living the day I came here, I made this place my prison.

Of course, I know what some of you are thinking. How can a retirement estate as beautiful as this one ever be considered a jail? But others among you will know what I mean. Trust me when I tell you that prisons can be made out of just about anything. Even a designer golf course, as it turns out.

It was only once I started to get really sick that I began to see things differently. I started to notice things that hadn’t occurred to me before. When I was young, retirement estates – or retirement homes, as they were more commonly called – were reserved for the authentically elderly. For the frail and lonely.

Folk who, for the most part, had become surplus to either their family or society’s requirements and could no longer care for themselves. But looking around at the people of Stone Well, a very different picture became clear to me. So much so that I began to question what I was seeing. I even decided to do a little research. Do you know that the average age of folk in our estate is sixty-three? The waiting list – and I know because I’ve seen it – has people listed in their late forties.

A few weeks ago, my condition forced me into the frail care unit for the evening. The nurse told me I was her tenth patient. I was a little confused by her statement, so I asked her to clarify. Was I her tenth patient of the day? The week? No. it turns out she had been working in the unit for four months already and I was only the tenth patient she had seen.

So what, I’m sure you’re wondering, is my point? Well, firstly, I’d like you to know how sorry I am for never really participating here. For not taking the time to get to know more of you. It’s no excuse, but you see, I was always waiting to leave. One does not bother making friends at a train station. Of course, now that it is too late to do anything about it, I realise how wrong I was and what a waste I made of my time here.

I like to believe that I am a better person than the one you barely knew. That the quiet man you saw sitting in his garden day after day was just a poor facsimile of someone who once had a great deal more to offer the world. But I guess you’ll have to take me at my word on that.

So why have I written this letter? Well, now that I have finally lifted my head, I can see that some of you aren’t so different. Maybe you think you are hiding it so well, but I see you, after all, I know the signs so well enough.

You’re waiting just like I’ve been. Maybe not for the reasons I was, but some of you have stopped living. There’s no question about it. And I’m asking you not to make the same mistake that I did. Sixty-three – hell, eighty-three – is too young for you to be waiting for the clock to stop if you still have health on your side. I can’t tell you how much I regret these past years. It burns me so badly now that I can barely sleep anymore.

Of course, maybe you are genuinely happy here. Maybe you enjoy your daily routines and have made close friends. Perhaps you have peace in your life. In that case, I am pleased for you and wish you well, but if you are anything like me and you’ve come here for the wrong reasons, then I urge you to do something about it. If you are living with regrets – with things that you have put away in a box but that maybe keep you awake at night – I want to tell you that you still have time enough to make things right. I was given eighteen years – it’s a damn lifetime – and I spent most of these days staring up at the sky. I can only imagine how it must have broken my wife’s heart to see me out on the porch, just waiting.

Thank you, Jack, for agreeing to do this for me. I was pleased to learn about your upcoming trip, I sense you have some unfinished business of your own. I hope and pray that you find the peace you are searching for, if that’s what your journey’s about. I also really enjoyed our brief time together and, of course, I’m sorry we never spoke more or shared a drink occasionally. I have a feeling that I missed out on a friendship that could’ve really meant something. Just one more thing to add to my list of regrets.

I know life isn’t a storybook. I also know that some of our mistakes are too far gone to be hauled back in. That maybe you lost things that will remain beyond your grasp. But I also know that my life would’ve been so much better spent if I had just been trying for something. And that, really, is the point of this letter. My final wish for all of you is that you realise, while you still have time, that it’s the trying that matters. Maybe It’s all that matters.

Here’s to life. And here’s to you. Thank you for listening.

Book Review

The Last Road Trip by Gareth Crocker
Reviewed by Jane Layzell Scully

Following the poignant death of a man they barely knew, four friends decide to make the most of what’s left of their lives. Abandoning the humdrum routine of life at their retirement estate, they embark on a thousand-mile road trip that will take them from the furthest corner of the Kruger Park to the blazing stars of Sutherland for the biggest adventure of their lives and one last hurrah together.

This book brings to life the characters who display so much compassion and empathy for each other’s struggles on this trip. They find joy in the small things they experience, knowledge about the places they visit across Soth Africa, and a deep and unexpected connection to each other.

This is a worthwhile read and made me think about what have I missed in my life and what can I change before it’s too late. I highly recommend this book.

Copies of The Last Roadtrip are hard to get hold of at the moment, but we are chatting to Gareth Crocker, who is trying to get hold of some copies. If you would like to get a copy, you can email Lyndsay@charteredwealth.co.za. Alternatively, you can download a copy from Amazon. There is also a copy available in our client library.

Where purpose and passion meet

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2014 proved to be a turning point in Gillian and Ralph Louw’s lives. After being involved in a cycling accident with a taxi some years before, Ralph could no longer continue working as a chopper pilot. Coupled with this, Gillian was retrenched from her role as a golf club’s food and beverage manager, where she had worked for eighteen years. In their early 50s at the time, Ralph and Gillian were faced with the very daunting question, what did they want to do for the rest of their lives?

These momentous changes forced them to stop and think about what they wanted the next chapter of their life together to look like. The first step they made was deciding to move to Hermanus in the Western Cape after finding the perfect property on Property 24. Living in Hermanus sparked the idea of starting a small upmarket tourism business, taking people on walks and trails. This was not the first time Gillian had had this idea. While doing the Whale Trail with friends in 2004, and standing on top of the Potberg Mountain, admiring the magnificent scenery around her, Gillian had an epiphany of sorts- she wanted more people to see what she saw at that moment. So, the seed was planted long before it became a reality.

Getting the business off the ground proved to be a struggle, so Gillian and Ralph took up a job running a lodge in Zambia in 2017. When it was time to renew their contract, they had to decide whether to come home and try and get the business up and running again, or continue working in Zambia. They chose to go home.

Kim Potgieter with Gillian and Ralph Louw

Fuelled by a desire to succeed, they put their heads together, learning new skills necessary to market their business correctly. They learnt all about Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) and Facebook Marketing. Having a passion for conservation, both Gillian and Ralph had completed various courses through FGASA (Field Guides Association of Southern Africa). However, to give people the ultimate experience, they furthered their studies in Marine Guiding and qualified as Cape Tourism and Wine Guides.

It paid off. They now offer tailor-made tours for groups. Their walks and trails include the Whale Trail, Overberg walks, hiking in the Cederberg and exploring the Kogelberg. Their Wine Walks are extremely popular too.

Ralph and Gillian love what they do; they get to combine their passion and purpose. They have used all the skills they have acquired over the years and turned it into a successful business. They don’t describe their work as a job, but rather as a calling. Richard Leider, the founder of Inventure – The Purpose Company, has a beautiful quote. He says, “Purpose is a verb. It is spiritual practice embodied in lived day-to-day experiences. If we live daily as a “default self’—the self that is hiding behind a mask of approval and cultural consensus-we will always feel empty. We will fill our time, but it will never feel like a fulfilling time.” Purpose is undoubtedly a verb for Ralph and Gillian, fulfilling their time and providing people with memorable experiences while doing so.

For more information on the walks and trails, visit their website at www.africansunroad.com

Clearing the clutter

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“Clutter is not just the stuff on your floor; it’s anything that stands between you and the life you want to be living.” Peter Walsh

Clearing the clutter, all the “stuff” in our lives that prevents us from living our best life, is becoming a global trend. In an age of overconsumption, people are starting to realise that “having it all” and feeling happy and fulfilled don’t always go hand-in-hand and that getting rid of unnecessary items can bring people a sense of personal relief and pride. As we prepare for transitions, which often entail downscaling, clearing the clutter becomes necessary.

Decluttering is freeing in so many ways. Letting go of the excess “stuff” that fills your home often feels like a weight being lifted from your life. Sometimes you don’t even realise how heavy and burdened your belongings makes you feel until you start letting them go!

One good reason to declutter sooner rather than later is that it allows you to make your own decisions about your belongings and what you want to do with them. This way, you won’t leave your family with the burden of clearing out your home, guessing what you might want to do with items or what items were special to you.

If you’d like to start decluttering your home, but it feels daunting, begin decluttering in waves. Don’t feel you have to tackle every room in great detail. Take a look at each room, slowly and objectively. Immediately remove the things you can see that you don’t want to keep. Put them in a box to donate or recycle. Re-visit that room when you’re feeling fresh and take another look. Remove anything that you notice the second time around. Decluttering in waves means that with each successive sweep, you’ll notice a little bit more each time you do it—nothing scary and nothing too daunting.

It’s also important to start somewhere easy. Don’t head straight into the storeroom or garage. Test and hone your decluttering skills before you approach a big project. Start with the bathroom and sift through the cupboards. Remove items you don’t or won’t use. Clear the surfaces, organise what’s left and practice keeping just what you need and use, no excess.

Decluttering your home is an obvious place to start, but there are many other aspects of life that you can declutter too. You can declutter your time and your digital life, to name a few.

When decluttering, remember to ask yourself these questions:

  • Do I need this?
  • Do I use this?
  • Does this add value to my life
  • Do I appreciate having this in my life?

If the answer is no, then it’s time to let it go. Often this is where the process stops as people are not sure what to do with goods that no longer serve them. We recently wrote an article detailing options for charity shops, online selling platforms and community organisations where you could donate or sell your goods. There are also numerous books available on the subject. We highly recommend one that Kate Emmerson wrote called Clear your Clutter, a practical, no-nonsense book that teaches you the why and the how of ridding yourself of emotional, physical and body clutter. If you still don’t know where to start, there are people out there to help. A quick Google search will link you to reputable people in your area.

Don’t let all the excess and unwanted things in your life take away from what’s really important to you.

Chartered give back initiatives – 2022

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“When you’re in a position to have gotten so much, the gift at this point is giving back”– Paul Stanley

We believe that balance is the key to a fulfilled life. One of the key areas of balance is give back. Giving lifts our spirits and makes us happy. It is through giving that we make our own lives richer. At Chartered, we believe in encompassing the wheel of balance, so each staff member is required to volunteer two hours of their time to help those in need. Covid hindered our give back opportunities during the past two years, but thankfully we are on track again, with our focus for 2022 being meaningful impact.

Our first partner organisation is Fight with Insight. Fight with Insight was established in the city with the vision of creating a safe place for the children of Johannesburg, using boxing to teach them life skills that assist them in taking responsibility for claiming their rights. Their offerings extend beyond boxing, and they also focus on the following: fitness, friends, food, feelings, future, and fun. We have partnered with them in their life skills programme and are working with a group of young adults around financial literacy. Once a month, a team from Chartered will spend time covering a wide variety of topics relating to financial literacy. By working with the same group of youngsters throughout the year and tailoring our topics to meet their needs, we aim to equip them with the financial skills required later on in life.

Fight with Insight has a strong focus on physical activity. They believe it’s a vital pillar of mental health, so each week, inner-city youth and children with autism and members of the public are invited to attend a morning of physical activity. The morning kicks off with an inner-city run followed by two hours of boxing and conditioning. A lunch, prepared by the youth in the programme, is then served, and everyone enjoys a meal together. The philosophy behind this is “doing with and not for”. Because these children often struggle with relationship building, the aim is simply to be together, learning from each other and exposing the youngsters to individuals they might not otherwise get to meet. Many of our fitter staff members have signed up to participate in this programme.

As is often the case with charities, the focus to remain financially afloat means there are often no resources for personal development and soft skills. All our staff members are taken through Brene Brown’s Dare to Lead programme at Chartered. This was implemented after Kim Potgieter trained under Brene Brown to become a Certified Dare to Lead™ Facilitator. The essence behind Dare to Lead is equipping leaders with the necessary skills to have the courage to lean into vulnerability and connect on an authentic level. We will be inviting representatives from various NGOs and taking them through the Dare to Lead programme. We aim to help equip them to bravely lead their organisations and help them have courageous conversations.

For the staff who prefer to give back by getting their hands dirty, we are partnering with Hearts of Hope and helping them paint their new home, which will house 18 orphaned and vulnerable children.

New Give back opportunities will become available throughout the year, and various in-house drives such as a collection of books, old work clothes and sanitary pads will take place. If you would like to get involved with any of the drives mentioned, or if you want to share ways that you give back, please email Lyndsay, we love hearing from you.

What’s your personal word for 2022?

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Each year a Word of the Year is chosen. The Word of the Year is a word or expression that has attracted a great deal of interest over the last 12 months. Every year, candidates for Word of the Year are debated. One is eventually chosen to reflect that particular year’s ethos, mood, or preoccupations and to have lasting potential as a word of cultural significance. The pandemic influenced Oxford’s 2021 choice, too, this time settling on a single word: “vax.”

So do you have a personal word of the year that you have chosen for 2022, one that reflects your ethos and mood for the year? Picking a word of the year can clarify who you want to become and what you want to accomplish in life.

Having a Word of the Year is an enjoyable way to set your intentions and theme for the New Year, or any other life event for that matter. Instead of rigid resolutions, a word of the year is a gentle and constant reminder to create positive change. While resolutions often seem to have a judgmental quality, a personal word of the year is often about a value. (Think honesty, openness, patience.)

For example, if your word of the year is “abundance”, you might have sub-goals of investing in an abundant number of friendships or spending more quality time with the people you love. If your word is “flow”, your sub-goals may be learning to accept things out of your control or perhaps being spontaneous.

When choosing your word, start by reflecting on areas of your life that could use refinement. What do you want to change, and where would you like to grow? Then make a list of word choices. Are these words actionable? You need to look for a word that you can and want to take daily action on. From your list, choose one word. When you have chosen your word, make sure to make it visible. Write it in your diary, stick it on your fridge or make it your cell phone home screen.

When you have chosen a word, start planning how you will live it out. It won’t happen with good intentions alone. Make your word part of your daily life.

Letting go of goods that no longer serve us

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Covid has given us all time to reflect on what no longer serves us. Many clients have shared stories with us about cleaning out their homes and getting rid of stuff they no longer need. The challenge, however, often lies in knowing where to donate or sell goods you no longer need.

Charity shops

Many charities sustain their organisations through charity shops. The concept of charity shops is brilliant as it is an effective way to donate goods and rid your home of unused items. The items are then sold to the public, and the proceeds are used to sustain the charity for which they operate. Charity shops accept most items, so it’s a perfect place to offload books, appliances, bric-a-brac and clothes. Thrift shopping has become extremely popular, so your pre-loved items will likely go to a good home. See a complete list of charity shops in the various provinces. Please remember to check whether or not the charity shop can collect items from your house or whether or not you need to deliver, as this may impact your choice of charity shop depending on the items you are donating.

Online platforms

With technology at our fingertips, selling goods online has become popular, be it a boat, record collection or old wedding dress. If you have goods that you would like to sell, there are various platforms one can use; however, when determining which platform to utilise, keep in mind minor details such as fees, suitability, and convenience. Figure out which site is best for what you want to sell. Selling an old PC or laptop necessitates a different platform than selling a couch or refrigerator. A trial run on a free marketplace, like Gumtree, is always a good idea to learn the ins and outs. Remember that some sites might have strict terms and conditions, branding limitations or “hidden” (or less obvious) costs that you need to look out for, so read the pricing policy and their Terms & Conditions very carefully.

Gumtree, OLX and Facebook Marketplace are examples of free classifieds sites. You can advertise your products for free, but selling, shipping and payment processing becomes the seller’s responsibility. Visit Rateweb to read more about selling your goods online. Remember that there are so many scammers out there, so we encourage you to read these safety tips before buying or selling anything online.

Community organisations

When cleaning out, don’t forget organisations in your areas. Places like churches and community halls often host teas, so they welcome extra cups, saucers, and side plates. Local schools and libraries always welcome books.

If you are struggling to begin the process of decluttering, try the KonMari Method™, which encourages tidying by category – not by location – starting with clothes, then moving on to books, papers, miscellaneous items, and, finally, sentimental items. Keep only those things that speak to the heart, and discard items that no longer spark joy. Thank them for their service – then let them go.

“Music gives soul to the universe and wings to the mind”

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Plato said that “music is a moral law. It gives soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and charm and gaiety to life and to everything”.

My first memory of my mother is of her singing and dancing. She loves music, and I don’t recall a day of my childhood that didn’t involve music. She woke us up singing and sang us to sleep. I remember wanting to crawl under a rock when she told us the story of running down the road, chasing Cliff Richard’s car. My twelve-year-old self thought that was the most embarrassing thing any person could do.

The years have gone by, and at 73, she still adores music. She has particularly enjoyed the client events at Chartered with Sean Brokensha, the Music Guru. After each event, she would call me and gush, and then she would express how it was her dream to have dinner with Sean and let him tell her about Leonard Cohen. The gravelly-voiced troubadour had an unrivalled way with words and became one of Canada’s greatest literary giants. Her enduring interest in and fascination with his music only happened later in life where she came to appreciate the beauty and intricacy of his poetry and lyrics.

This year, we decided that we would make her dream come true and take her on a musical journey instead of a physical one for her birthday, so we arranged dinner with Sean and a whole night dedicated to Leonard.

It was an intimate affair held on the patio on a beautiful spring evening. The presentation was peppered with wonderful anecdotes and biographical information about this amazing artist, but what really brought it to life were all the fantastic videos. Sean is very relaxed and laid back, and he didn’t mind being interrupted or questioned even when he was required to deviate from his pre-prepared agenda. Various artists ranging from Johnny Clegg and Peter Gabriel and the poetry of Kerouac, also came under the spotlight.

These past 18 months have really highlighted how it is memories and not things that matter the most. I am so grateful that we had the opportunity to spend time as a family and explore my mother’s passion.

Watching my mother delight in every minute will be what I remember from the evening, and these lyrics are the ones that will always remind me of my parents and their love story.

“Dance me to your beauty with a burning violin
Dance me through the panic ’til I’m gathered safely in
Lift me like an olive branch and be my homeward dove
Dance me to the end of love.”

Blooming through disruptive times

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We hosted an event with Human Potential and Parenting Expert Nikki Bush in honour of Women’s Month. We have all been sitting in a place of extreme discomfort and with an overwhelming sense of lack of control over the past months, and during this insightful talk, Nikki provided us with tips and tools to help us bloom through these times.

Life sends us tremors constantly, and sometimes it sends catastrophic life quakes that can break you open or bury you alive; and according to Nikki, we need to learn how to reframe these situations to reauthor our lives.

1. Getting Comfortable with not knowing

Most of us have spent years building sound financial plans and life plans which provided us with a certain degree of comfort about the future. However, we now know that this is no longer the case; we really don’t know what the future holds in terms of our plans. In order to reframe so that we can become more resilient, we need to get used to this discomfort.

2. Comma or full stop?

When Nikki’s husband, Simon, was tragically murdered at the end of 2017, the life she had known came to an end. In one split second, her whole world changed. Her family of four suddenly became a family of three, and all her hopes and dreams of her future with Simon were shattered. Nikki describes this time in her life as feeling like a full stop. However, with time Nikki began to turn this full stop into a comma, a pause, not the end, and she started creating a different future for herself. She had to actively decide to do that. This journey took her completely out of her comfort zone. She had to go to new places, meet new people and define who Nikki was without Simon. She urged us to consider whether significant moments in our lives where we feel completely out of control are full stops or commas.

3. Collateral beauty versus Collateral damage

Not only did she lose her husband, but she also lost her home and her anchor. Her family picture had been broken. While it was understandably easy for her to focus on all that was lost and broken, she also decided to focus on what she had gained, as with the damage came beauty too. Nikki calls this exercise in perspective Collateral Damage vs Collateral Beauty. In this exercise, she encourages you to fold a piece of paper in half. On one side, write the collateral damage of a particular situation, and on the other side, write down the collateral beauty. Take lockdown, for example; you would perhaps write isolation from family and friends on the collateral damage side, but what could the collateral beauty be? Could it be that you learnt new skills such as Zoom, which now means that you connect with friends and family overseas more regularly? It’s important to always look for the beauty in situations, and this exercise provides a perfect opportunity to gain perspective.

Nikki ended the session with this quote “Listen for the messages in the flames, and dig for the treasures in the ashes.”

Lending a helping hand this Mandela month

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Nelson Mandela said, “There can be no greater gift than that of giving one’s time and energy to help others without expecting anything in return.” Traditionally individuals and companies would honour Mandela on his birthday by spending 67 minutes serving those less fortunate than themselves.

Covid and the violence currently gripping our country has meant that traditional Mandela Day activities, such as visiting NGOs, is no longer possible; however, the need for assistance is greater than ever.

At Chartered, we launched a give back challenge (#CharteredGiveBack) for July. Staff are encouraged to get involved and make a difference, no matter how big or small.

We identified a few causes that we felt passionate about, and one of them was the homeless. Did you know that it only costs R10 to sponsor a bed for a person at a homeless shelter per night?

Covid has directly impacted many of our staff and clients, and it is during these times that we realise just what heroes our frontline workers are. To say thank you to them, we have been collecting items such as tea, coffee, biscuits, rusks, Energade and energy bars. These items, along with all our leftover client gifts, are being donated to the doctors, nurses and auxiliary staff working in the Covid wards.

Some staff members have decided to donate dry goods which they have delivered to our office using the Checkers sixty60 app. We have partnered with various organisations that will then distribute the food collected to those in need.

Lockdown is the perfect opportunity to clean out cupboards, and One Small Act of Kindness gladly accepts these donations as they help people in need across the board. One Small Act of Kindness also welcomes donations of fresh sandwiches and muffins, which they distribute to the hungry.

The upheaval in our country this past week has brought communities together, and the call to volunteer has been widespread. Hundreds of thousands of South Africans have heeded the call to lend a helping hand. Social media is flooded with opportunities to help rebuild our country, ranging from financial assistance to helping clean up, providing resources to skills sharing. It’s easy to do, all you need to do is fill out a form here stating how you would like to help, and you will be notified of ways in which you can help.

Below are a few more suggestions of how you can safely give back.

If you would like more information on any Chartered Give Back initiatives, please get in touch with Lyndsay. If you have your own give back story that you would like to share with us, please do; we love hearing from you.

Keeping tabs on our physical wellbeing

Written by Lyndsay Barr on . Posted in Health. 1 Comment on Keeping tabs on our physical wellbeing

I belong to a Facebook group called The Village. It’s a group aimed at parents of older children. It’s a supportive and safe space where parents can ask questions and give feedback, most importantly though it’s a place to go so you don’t feel like you are navigating parenthood alone. The Village is always a good place to gauge where people generally are on an emotional level. Recently, a question was posed to the Village asking members to describe their emotions in just one word. The answers were concerning. Deflated, broken, exhausted, overwhelmed, distraught, scared and anxious were just a few of the words used. It just goes to show that perhaps we are not ok.

If you asked me the same question, I think I would use a similar word. For this reason, I have to make a conscious effort daily to keep a firm check on my emotions, and one way to do this is by making my physical health a priority.

For many of us, we feel like we are in the movie Groundhog Day. Every single day is the same, wake up, eat, work, walk, sleep, repeat. Recently, a friend suggested we try and break the monotony by adding a new activity to our routine, so we decided to try a Nia class together. Nia is a sensory-based movement practise that draws from martial arts, dance arts and healing arts. It empowers people of all shapes and sizes by connecting the body, mind, emotions and spirit. Classes are taken barefoot to soul-stirring music. What a treat Nia has turned out to be. Once a week, we all connect through movement with a diverse group of people in terms of age and fitness level. One can’t help but walk away feeling energised and restored. Another thing I have realised through our Nia classes is how much we feed off the energy of others and how refreshing being around people is.

Walking is another practice that I try and put into my routine. I meet a friend early in the morning, a few times a week, and walk around Zoo Lake. We chose Zoo Lake because walking around and around becomes meditative in a way, and more importantly, we don’t have to navigate traffic. It allows us to be fully present in the moment and focus on each other, we really connect, and connection with people this last year has been what I have missed the most. There is also something very calming watching the mist rise off the lake and watching the ducks go about their day.

Most people have put physical self-care on the back burner since Covid, myself included. Feeling guilty initially, I decided that my aching back warranted a massage. And I am so glad I indulged in this guilty pleasure. It was pure indulgence and absolute bliss and an essential reminder that we need to listen to our bodies.

What have you been doing to keep a check on your mental and physical wellbeing? We love hearing from you, and we would appreciate you sharing your daily practices with us.

From languishing to flourishing

Written by Lyndsay Barr on . Posted in Learn. No Comments on From languishing to flourishing

Recently there was an article published in The New York Times about a collective state of being that many of us are experiencing presently, and it’s called languishing. According to the article, languishing is a sense of stagnation and emptiness. It feels as if you’re muddling through your days, looking at your life through a foggy windshield. It’s the void between depression and flourishing — the absence of well-being. You don’t have symptoms of mental illness, but you’re not the picture of mental health either. You’re not functioning at your full capacity. Languishing dulls your motivation and disrupts your ability to focus. When you are languishing, you are not depressed, but you aren’t thriving either.

So how then do we move from a state of languishing to flourishing? According to psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, to flourish, we need to find our flow, a term he coined in the 1990s. He says we reach this blissful state when we find the right balance between skill and challenge. If our challenge is too great, we’ll be stressed. If the challenge is not enough, boredom kicks in. But when it’s just right, we experience “flow”. Flow is that elusive state of absorption in a significant challenge or a momentary bond, where your sense of time, place and self melts away.

The first thing you need to do to achieve this state is to step out of your comfort zone. Do something that’s slightly beyond your comfort zone. It needs to be challenging but not overwhelming. Something that you enjoy and requires skill. When you take on a challenge that’s manageable to you – you increase your chances of experiencing “flow”.

Another way to find your flow is to get better at something, develop an existing skill, try a new one, or take up an old one. “Flow” is very individual, so you need to find what works for you – and there are no limits. Walking, gardening, reading an academic book, yoga, or an enjoyable work project might be your thing, and all of them can promote the feeling of “flow”. Whatever appeals to you, draws you in and challenges you can help you find your “flow”.

Try and forget yourself. You may think that’s easier said than done, but it’s crucial if you want to experience “flow”. As a source of mental energy, “flow” both invigorates and motivates us so we can forget ourselves. As you immerse yourself in your activity, you’ll shut off any critical “self-talk”, niggling worries and distractions. “Flow” is about losing yourself in something that offers no tangible reward beyond the activity itself.

Finally, remember to be kind to yourself. No one has been left unscathed by the last year, and its impact on our general well-being. Focus on the small wins.

Bringing some fun back into our lives

Written by Lyndsay Barr on . Posted in Play. 1 Comment on Bringing some fun back into our lives

One of the things that we seem to be collectively missing at the moment is a lack of joy and fun. In a world of horrific events discussed every five minutes on the television, radio newspapers and social media, it’s no wonder so many people are struggling to find joy and have fun when the state of the world is as it is. As hard as it is, it is at times like these that we need to view life from a new perspective and to not let outside circumstances, the media and other people’s negative attitudes affect us in our daily lives.

As an adult, you have every right to enjoy yourself. In fact, adults need to play. As George Bernard Shaw once said, “We don’t stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing.”

Back when we were children, this experience of pure delight didn’t have to come from a heightened event for us to feel like our day had been made. Pure fun happens when we are fully engaged with ourselves and our world in each moment. It is the spontaneous delight that bubbles out of us when we let go long enough to bring it through. Approach your life today with the knowledge that pure fun isn’t something that is given or done to you; rather, it is something that you allow yourself to experience.

So how then do we bring fun back into our lives?

Set the Goal of Playing More. Start by setting a goal to have more fun. When we think of setting goals we usually think of serious things, such as saving more money, eating healthier or exercising more often. However, the goal of having more fun is just as important as those more serious-sounding goals.

Define what fun looks like for you. A lot of the time adults can’t even remember what they like to do. Or maybe they’ve outgrown the things that they liked to do in the past and they haven’t gotten around to identifying new things that they enjoy. If this is you, sit down and make a list of the things that you enjoyed doing in your youth. Then, go over your list and highlight those things that still sound appealing. Google is a wonderful resource and if you are stuck for ideas try googling “fun ideas for adults”.

Set a fun minimum and put it in your schedule. Just as you tell yourself that you’re going to exercise for at least half-an-hour a day, tell yourself that you’re also going to do something fun for at least half-an-hour-a-day. It’s important to schedule it in your diary because if you don’t schedule it in it’s unlikely to happen.

Create a play drawer. In her book “Simple Abundance: A Daybook of Comfort and Joy,” Sarah Ban Breathnach recommends creating a drawer to “stockpile small indulgences.” This drawer could contain anything that brings you joy. Popular items include colouring books for adults, board games and puzzles.

Spend time with a fun friend. Whether it is online or in-person, the people you spend time with will have an enormous impact on your life. If you need to relearn how to relax, be more spontaneous, laugh more, and simply be more willing to play, look for someone who’s already doing these things. Then, follow their lead.

We would love to hear how you are finding ways to have fun, so please share your stories with us. Most importantly, remember to never stop finding joy!

Get Journaling

Written by Lyndsay Barr on . Posted in Learn. No Comments on Get Journaling

Soon it will be a year since life as we knew it changed, and many of us are feeling that we are missing out on our lives. Some days feel endlessly long and it is hard to see any silver linings. Sometimes we have to consciously remind ourselves to be grateful and to find joy in everyday life, and a great way of doing this is through the process of journaling.

Journaling has been found to have numerous positive benefits. For example, It makes us more self-aware and allows us to identify unhealthy patterns in our thoughts and behaviours. This gives us greater control over our lives and can help us shift from a negative mindset to a more positive one, especially about ourselves. It reduces stress and anxiety as it provides a space to write about your emotional responses to events that have happened throughout the day as a way of coping with stress and anxiety. This can help you to process what you are feeling and perhaps even explore more positive reframing options. Because we’re getting things out of our head and onto a piece of paper, it increases working memory, this works together to improve sleep.

Journaling has health benefits too as it improves the immune system and strengthens immune cells. Studies have shown it reduces symptoms of asthma and rheumatoid arthritis and one study showed that expressive writing (journaling) for only 15-20 minutes a day 3 – 5 times over the course of a 4-month period was enough to lower blood pressure and improve liver function! Journaling uses the analytical, rational left side of the brain and the creative, emotional right side of the brain. This helps promote creativity, problem-solving and improves our sense of wellbeing.

If you are considering journaling but don’t know where to begin, a gratitude journal is a good place to start. It is as simple as getting a notebook and starting to write down three things each day that you’re grateful for. Gratitude journaling shifts our attention from what is wrong to what is right. It encourages us to focus on the things that are going well and the positives that each day brings regardless of the challenges that might come with it. What we focus on we find, so this simple tool really does work to reprogram the brain to look for the positive.

Another way to start is to complete the 50 Things that Make me Happy exercise developed by Claire Holden. This exercise allows us to reflect on the things that make us happy – not just the big exciting things like overseas holidays or special treats but, more importantly perhaps, the little everyday things too. It may be the sound of birdsong or the feel of sunshine on your face. As you begin to reflect and record theses small moments of happiness you will become more conscious of them. As this consciousness increases so too will your conscious moments of happiness each day.

If you would like help in kickstarting your journaling journey we recommend you sign up here for Claire’s free 20-minute online course as an introduction to the Joy of Journaling available through her ‘Be A Better Human’ online learning platform.

Remember that journaling is for you, so don’t preoccupy yourself with managing perfect punctuation, grammar or spelling. Just write and don’t censor yourself. There is a beautiful quote by Mina Murray that sums it up best. “Journaling is like whispering to one’s self and listening at the same time.”

The best-laid plans go awry

Written by Lyndsay Barr on . Posted in Health. 1 Comment on The best-laid plans go awry

Not one of us can say we were left unscathed by the events of 2020, and most of us breathed a collective sigh of relief as December rolled closer and holidays and time with family and a much -needed break loomed nearer. And then the Covid cases spiked, holidays were cancelled, and family gatherings were postponed.

My family were the same. We cancelled seeing my parents at Christmas as well as our holiday to Knysna. We wanted to avoid contracting Covid at all costs. As Robert Burns said, “the best -laid plans of mice and men often go awry,” and shortly after a very low-key new year I found myself struggling to breathe and experiencing fevers like I have never experienced in my life. A Covid test confirmed my suspicions. The two weeks I spent in bed are a blur. I seemed to go from one fever to the next. I got very ill, and it happened very quickly.

It was at night though when I really felt anxious as I struggled to breathe. Things seem so much scarier in the dark of night, and I was left feeling completely vulnerable. And the lack of touch, not being able to hug my husband and children, that was the hardest thing for me. I am so grateful to my family and friends who really supported me through, and I found these practical examples of support so helpful.

  1. Music
    I am a big fan of music; I listen to it all day while I work. A few of my friends each made me playlists to help me calm down when I thought I couldn’t breathe. The playlists ranged from classical music to meditative yoga music. One friend made me a playlist of all our old favourites that we used to party to when we were younger. It brought a huge smile to my face and I really appreciated this gesture.

  2. Dropping off meals
    My husband was left in charge of the household and he did a great job of shopping, cooking, and keeping the household going, but he was very worried and distracted, so it was a welcome relief when friends dropped off meals. My one friend was away so she arranged delivery of a chicken pie from Vicky Sleet catering, which according to my family is the world’s most delicious chicken pie. I mostly declined offers of meals from friends, but in hindsight, I am glad they ignored me and brought meals anyway.

  3. Voice notes, messages and funny memes
    Each morning and throughout the day I received voice notes, messages and funny memes from my friends. These were a welcome relief, and a break from the world of Covid. It was a nice distraction to know what was going on in the world outside.

So, if you do have friends or family members who have Covid try one of the above suggestions. You can be rest assured that the gestures will be hugely appreciated. And if you have been ill and were supported in a particular way by family and friends let us know, as we are always looking for suggestions as to how best support each other.