5 Timeless quotes to inspire you this Savings Month

Published on 23rd June, 2025 at 04:17 pm

There’s no better way than with wise, trusted and proven words by some of the world’s foremost thought leaders. Read, think, and work your way towards a more financially confident and prosperous future.

Reading time: 4 minutes

In this article you’ll learn about:

• Lesser known but influential quotes on finances and saving.
• How we can apply these ideas during Savings Month (and beyond).
• Resources to keep the conversation going.

Benjamin Franklin once said, “An investment in knowledge always pays the best interest.” Though it’s more than 200 years later, those words still ring with searing truth.

With a spotlight on the importance of saving this month, we acknowledge the challenges facing many South Africans today. According to Stats SA as reported by Trading Economics, South Africa’s household savings rate remains worryingly low. And according to Sanlam’s 2024 Benchmark Survey, while the majority of South Africans feel anxious about their financial future, fewer than half surveyed have a structured savings plan in place, as the report found, a “high level (49%) of the respondents confirmed that they were struggling with debt and did not have much left over at the end of the month to save.”

So, this month, instead of only diving into the mechanics and tools of saving (and there are many!), we’re also here to spark motivation and a feeling of inspiration as we head into Savings Month.

“The only way to be successful with saving is to make it a habit.”
– Lynnette Khalfani-Cox

The world-renowned financial coach and author always hits us with the hard truth! In this quote, she sheds light on the fact that saving isn’t about extreme strategies, major sacrifices, or ‘get rich quick’ schemes, rather, it’s about consistency, dedication, and keeping one’s eyes on the future. Small actions lead to big things over the long run!

What we can learn:

Find the small habits and routines that help build a savings mindset, whether that comes in the form of learning to cut back on unnecessary spending at the grocery store, setting up a debit order for savings, or simply having financial conversations with loved ones.

“Every bit of savings is like taking a point in the future that would have been owned by someone else and giving it back to yourself.”
– Morgan Housel

These are words from the author of The Psychology of Money are especially important in our age of tap-and-go and click-and-buy. The fact is, money moves quickly these days, and spending is made easier than ever before. Housel highlights that saving is not just a reaction, but a proactive choice. It’s your way of claiming a stake in your future.

What we can learn:

Every rand you put away today is your way of securing options and freedom in the future. Over years, that power is amplified even more. Your future-self will thank you for the decisions you make today.

“Don’t save what is left after spending; spend what is left after saving.”
– Warren Buffett

There’s a good chance you might have heard this quote before – after all, Buffett is regarded as one of the most successful business people of the modern era. However, this quote is often overlooked in its simplicity – this right here, is the key that can unlock a lot of financial confidence when it comes to saving.

What we can learn:

If you want to prioritise savings, treat it like a debit order, and ensure that a set amount goes towards a savings account at the start of each month. Even if it’s the smallest amount, consistency builds the habit.

“Money looks better in the bank than on your feet.”
– Sophia Amoruso

The brilliant (and effortlessly cool) entrepreneur behind Girlboss champions intentional spending, not rigid frugality. In this quote, she highlights the importance of long-term value over short-term satisfaction and immediate gratification.

What we can learn:

Saving can lead to more financial freedom in the future, so while you may feel sacrifices now, money (especially put into places where it can grow), will give you much more satisfaction in the future.

“The greatest value comes from being mentally prepared for the worst-case scenario.”
– Nassim Nicholas Taleb

Mathematician and author, Taleb goes to the heart of saving: readiness. Saving isn’t only about budgeting for known expenses like school fees, retirement, or holidays – it’s also about being ready for life’s curveballs. From medical emergencies to sudden job loss, being prepared for the unknown can make all the difference.

What we can learn:

When you’re prepared for both the expected and the unexpected, you’re not just protecting your finances, you’re protecting your peace of mind – now that’s living with financial confidence!

Want to keep the conversation going?

• Try Sanlam’s new Money Personalities tool for yourself, and with friends and family. With a quick questionnaire, this powerful tool will help give you insights into your spending habits and tips into positioning yourself towards a savings mindset.
• Wondering if you’ll have enough saved for retirement one day? Try this nifty calculator by Sanlam here.
• Ready to talk to kids about savings? July is the month to do it! Read this article to get easy-to-follow tips.