Freedom Beyond 15th August – A Chat on Financial
Independence at S&Co.
It was a rainy Thursday morning at the office of S&Co.,
a reputed audit and tax advisory firm. A small tricolour adorned the reception
desk, and the atmosphere was quietly festive with Independence Day just
around the corner.
As the team wrapped up their morning coffee, Manoj, the
senior most staff, casually said, “Sir, every year on 15th August, we talk so
much about national freedom. But what about personal freedom - like financial
independence? That seems equally important today.”
CA Srini, the firm's founder, smiled.
Though known for his tax and audit acumen, Srini had a deep personal interest
in financial literacy and wealth management. “That’s a brilliant thought,
Manoj. Just like our country fought for freedom, each of us has to work towards
financial freedom in our own lives.”
Dhawal, from the society accounts team,
added, “But sir, what does financial independence really mean? Is it
just about being rich?”
Before Srini could answer, Jagruti, the ops in charge, said, “I think it means not worrying about money every
month - like having enough to cover your needs and still save.”
Srini nodded. “Exactly, Jagruti. It’s
not about how much you earn, but how well you manage it. Financial independence
means control, peace of mind, and choices - not compulsion.”
Just then, Sunil, from Bharadhwaj Investsmart
(the wealth management firm run by Srini’s brother, Vaidy), walked in
for a joint client meeting. He overheard the discussion. “Srini Sir is right.
We see this all the time - people with high incomes stuck in debt, while modest
earners who invest smartly live stress-free.”
Pooja, who handled GST, leaned
forward. “So how do we get there? Many of our clients earn well but
don’t seem financially independent.”
Prajakta, who helps the other seniors in
almost all the aspects, joked, “Maybe we should do an ‘audit’ of their personal
finances too!” Everyone laughed, but Tabassum, the practical one,
said, “Actually, that’s not a bad idea. Most people have no clue where their
money goes each month.”
Srini picked up a marker and wrote on the whiteboard:
Spend less than you earn. Control
lifestyle inflation.
Build an emergency fund. Keep 3-6
months of essential expenses ready.
Invest early and consistently. SIPs,
PPF, ELSS - let compounding work.
Avoid bad debt. Credit cards and luxury
loans kill freedom.
Define your goals.
Retirement, education, home - clarity is power.
Insure wisely. Get proper health and
term insurance.
Review regularly. Audit
your financial life annually.
“It’s simple,” Dhawal said, “but needs discipline.”
“Just like our nation’s independence came with planning and
sacrifice,” Srini added, “personal financial freedom also takes time, patience,
and consistency.”
Sunil smiled, “And the earlier you start, the better. Time is
your greatest ally.”
As the team returned to work, Srini concluded, “Let’s not stop
with flag hoisting this 15th August. Let’s also pledge to work towards our own
financial freedom.”
The national anthem began playing softly from someone’s phone.
The office fell silent - for those few moments, everyone stood not just as
citizens of a free country, but as individuals determined to be financially
free as well.
The content made available in this article is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the content, it should not be considered as a substitute for professional consultation.
No comments:
Post a Comment