My relationship with Richemont chairperson Johann Rupert has been patchy – as tends to happen between journalists and those about whom they report. Rupert is at his absolute best, though, when passing on memorable chestnuts. Like his advice that the person who signs surety for another is a fool with a pen. That quip has saved me from some sticky situations.
But what to do one level down – when an unreliable friend keeps badgering you for a loan? In this wonderfully crafted piece, entrepreneur, author and Coolfidence.com founder Ronnie Apteker (right) applies his mind to this and other prickly issues. And, using his unique brand of humour, delivers advice that’s as sound as Rupert’s on the subject almost everyone hates taking about – our own money. – Alec Hogg
By Ronnie Apteker*
It has been said that money is the root of all evil. But then again, a man needs roots. And a woman too.
Does money make the world go round? Some have said so. Whatever the answer, money pays the bills, and it puts food on the table.
I have never had a love affair with money. I know quite a few people that have, and that’s cool. Whatever your relationship with money is, the one thing is constant: money gives us choice.
The thing about money is that we have all seen it bring out the best and the worst in people. Just go to a casino for an evening and watch people at the tables – their behaviour may shock you.
As George Bernard Shaw once wrote, “There is nothing like the prospect of a lot of money to fog otherwise intelligent minds.”
