Many women find money an unpleasant topic and prefer to suppress it. Astrid Zehbe, financial journalist and co-founder of the platform “finanzielle” says: Stop it! Women can handle money.
Money is fun - A plea for a positive approach to finances
From worry to fun: why money can bring more joy than many believe
Money. For many, this sounds like an unpleasant topic of conversation that is better hidden away in a dark drawer. But why is that? Astrid Zehbe, award-winning financial journalist and co-founder of the “finanzielle” platform, says: No more! Money can be really fun – and it has nothing to do with millionaire dreams.
Fear, panic, frustration - why money is often no fun
“We often associate money with negative feelings,” explains Astrid. Instead of being excited about potential opportunities, many think of debt, financial dependency or complicated investment products. No wonder – for decades, women have been forced into a passive role: no account of their own, no job without their husband’s permission. Sounds like the Middle Ages? But it was a reality until the 1970s.
From problem child to superhero: Understanding money as a tool
Imagine that money is not a problem, but a multitool. A bit like the Swiss army knife. It can give you independence, security and even a zest for life. “When you see money as a means of shaping your own life, it suddenly becomes exciting,” says Astrid. Doesn’t sound bad, does it?
Ladies, we need to talk ... about money!
Here’s the plan: read, talk, get started. Sounds simple, but it’s a real magic bullet. Astrid explains: “Get informed, talk to friends about money and get started. It doesn’t have to be shares, but a nest egg is a good start.” And no false modesty! Women are often super disciplined about saving, but don’t dare to use their savings for investments. This is where “finanzielle” comes in: With workshops, role models and boot camps. The aim? Encouragement!
From savings account to dream property: success stories that inspire courage
One of the stars from Astrid’s collection: a woman who completely turned her life around after a separation. First a full-time job, then a nest egg, a small ETF savings plan – and bang, a few years later she was able to buy her first apartment. Not a lottery win, but simply clever planning.
Goodbye money mindset brake
What actually blocks us so often? Astrid has a guess: old beliefs. “Why do I think this way about money? Where do these beliefs come from?” Many negative thoughts come from childhood, from parents or grandma and grandpa. If you question these patterns, you can break them. In other words: it’s never too late for a new money mindset.
Fun instead of stress - here we go!
Money can be fun – does that still sound unrealistic to you? Then give it a try. Start small, read up and take the first step. Astrid’s insider tip: don’t wait for the perfect moment. Because the best time to get started is right now.
Facts
Women and money
- Gender pay gap: In Europe, women earn an average of 13% less per hour than men (EU Commission, 2023).
- Pension gap: On average, women in the EU receive 28% less pension than men.
- Financial dependence: 40% of women in partnerships leave the financial planning to the man (OECD, 2022).
- Investment behavior: Only 33% of women invest in shares or funds, compared to 52% of men (Statista, 2023).
- Success through networks: Women who participate in financial education programs increase their savings and investment behavior by up to 60%.
About Astrid Zehbe
Astrid Zehbe is an award-winning financial journalist and, together with Daniela Meyer, co-founder of the “finanzielle” platform, which helps women to take control of their own finances. She is a sought-after speaker and author and has made it her mission to make the topics of money and investments tangible and inspiring for women. Astrid believes that money is more than just numbers – it is a tool for self-determination and joie de vivre.
