Think Again is the work of organisational psychologist Adam Grant, a Wharton University professor. In this 2021 publication, he lays out the merits of going through life with an actively open mind about rethinking anything and everything – from knowledge (especially if you consider yourself an expert on a topic) to beliefs, biases and prejudices, best practices, business models, careers, and relationships. He cites humility, doubt, and curiosity as the three essential ingredients for productive rethinking, leading to learning and progress. This book even has a chapter entitled “The Joy of Bein ..read more

Inspired by fun, friendship and fitness by Sandy Murray, Chartered client. Swimming is a great way to keep mentally and physically fit. Many of us, however, need considerable motivation to take the plunge – so to speak. South African Masters Swimming is a fraternity of aqua enthusiasts who enjoy keeping fit and setting their sights on maintaining or shaving seconds off their previous personal best times. The year’s highlight is the Masters National Championships, which brings together swimmers across South Africa and beyond for a 4-day gala. The excitement of the 379 swimmers – aged 20 to ove ..read more

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 ..read more

Small Habits – Big Impact I just crossed the finish line at my second Two Oceans Half Marathon! It may seem like a small victory, but it’s a big win for me and one that I celebrate proudly. Running a marathon was never really my main goal – but exercise and fitness have always been important to me. Don’t misunderstand me; when I first started running, it didn’t go exactly as planned. It’s tough getting up early mornings, and it’s much easier to hit the snooze button, especially on cold winter mornings or lazy weekends. James Clear’s book Atomic Habits profoundly impacted my life, and his words ..read more

“Outlive – the Science and Art of Longevity” is a compelling exploration of longevity, health, and the science behind ageing gracefully. Dr Attia draws upon his extensive experience in medicine and research to provide readers with practical insights and strategies for extending lifespan while maintaining optimal health. He talks about the Four Horsemen, being the four main chronic diseases that afflict us as we get older: heart disease, cancer, diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease. In trying to live longer, and live better for longer, he maintains that we need to step in sooner rather than later t ..read more

My journey with SMART (Stranded Marine Animal Rescue Team) began after our retirement and move to Mossel Bay. This non-profit, established in 2015, rescues stranded marine mammals and turtles. Our role is to respond quickly to animals on beaches, prioritising their well-being. While Cape Fur Seals basking on rocks is normal, pups washed ashore during storms need our help. When pup strandings are reported, the SMART teams immediately respond so that the pups can be picked up and taken to a place of safety. We reunite them with their island home as soon as possible. Sadly, three sick Sub Antarc ..read more

Inspired by Kim’s blog on the power of permission slips, this month’s conversation starter revolves around conversations with ourselves, learning to silence the inner critic, and giving ourselves permission to honour our authentic selves. 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 ..read more

Have you ever found yourself standing on the edge of a decision, just waiting for someone to say it’s ok before you take the plunge? To give you the approval for what you’d like to do? Or stop yourself from doing something because it feels unfamiliar? You’re not alone. It’s human nature. We all hold ourselves back sometimes. But what if the only permission slip you truly need is from yourself? Why not write yourself a ‘permission slip’ and give yourself the freedom – and permission – to feel, behave, and live exactly as you want to? Within reason (and your spending plan), of course… Brené Brow ..read more

(1 Couple, 98 Days, 1400 Miles on Europe’s GR5) Reviewed by Kathy Elkind After American Kathy Elkind and her husband Jim moved to Vermont and became empty nesters, they decided to plan a grand walking adventure. In her late fifties and moderately fit, Kathy selected the Grande Randonnée Cinq (GR5) route, starting in Hoek van Holland in The Netherlands and finishing in Nice, France, a distance of 2300 kilometres. Her rationale was that this route would be more refined than rugged, offering a better chance of her making it through to the end! The official trail winds through Europe’s Vosges, Jur ..read more

Dreaming of escaping the Johannesburg hustle for open roads and scenic vistas, Chartered clients Huida and Granville set out on a motorcycle trip with a twist: Granville had a secret agenda – to scout potential semigration destinations. Little did they know, George would capture their hearts with its charm, natural beauty, and a hidden gem of a house waiting to be discovered. Their initial odyssey wound through towns like Prince Albert and Tulbagh, each offering unique flavours of life. While Port Owen’s remoteness didn’t resonate, Gordons Bay, a place they loved, didn’t offer any houses that ..read more