Author: Shirley Bardenhorst

My income is unpredictable, but my retirement savings aren't.

It's easy to put off retirement planning when your pay varies. Here's how to make consistent contributions a reality, no matter what your monthly income looks like.

By Shirley Bardenhorst July 18, 2026 6 min read

SARS

Is your side hustle paperwork a total disaster? Mine was.

By Shirley Bardenhorst July 18, 2026 6 min read

Stop relying on screenshots and faded slips. Discover the simple, grown-up system that transformed one side hustler's chaotic financial records into organised, SARS-ready proof.

Small Business

Is 'simple' turnover tax actually costing your business more than you think?

By Shirley Bardenhorst July 18, 2026 5 min read

Many small business owners are drawn to turnover tax for its apparent ease. But if you have thin margins and high expenses, this 'simple' approach could be a costly mistake.

SARS

Your side hustle is thriving — but are you ready for the tax surprise?

By Shirley Bardenhorst July 18, 2026 6 min read

That moment your side hustle profit crosses into 'proper money' means new tax rules. Find out how provisional tax changes your financial responsibilities.

Small Business

I thought my packed stall was profitable. I was wrong.

By Shirley Bardenhorst July 18, 2026 5 min read

It turns out a busy table can just be a detour to paying for petrol and bags. Find out how to truly calculate your market stall's profitability.

Small Business

Stop inviting SARS and CIPC into your life too soon.

By Shirley Bardenhorst July 18, 2026 6 min read

That R125 company registration fee is just the start. Many small businesses rush into a Pty Ltd when a sole proprietorship is still the smarter, cheaper option.

Side Hustles

Why your side hustle money feels like profit but isn't.

By Shirley Bardenhorst July 18, 2026 6 min read

That feeling when your side hustle money lands, then vanishes? It's not the hustle, it's the blur. Learn how to keep your business income separate and visible.

Small Business

Are your 'cheap' payment methods actually costing you more than you think?

By Shirley Bardenhorst July 18, 2026 6 min read

Beyond the small percentage, the real expense of payment methods lies in wasted time, customer service headaches, and delayed access to your money. Are you paying too much?

Small Business

Is your politeness costing you a fortune? It did for me.

By Shirley Bardenhorst July 18, 2026 5 min read

Custom orders often mean upfront costs and time. Learn why a deposit isn't rude, but essential to protect your business from clients who disappear.

Pricing

Is your side hustle busy but broke? You're probably underpricing your work.

By Shirley Bardenhorst July 18, 2026 6 min read

Discover the hidden expenses, from electricity to card fees, that are eating your profits. Learn how to accurately calculate your true costs.