Written by Glen James

Host of the Retire Right & money money money (formerly my millennial money) podcasts & author of The Quick-Start Guide to Investing.

I’ve always lived by this philosophy when it comes to money: give some, spend some, save some. All three of these matter equally, and today I want to touch on the first one: giving.

If you've found yourself in a position of financial strength, that's a privilege, and with it comes the opportunity to make a real difference. For me, giving isn't just a nice-to-do after you've sorted everything else out. It's a core part of living a rich life. Giving back connects us to something bigger than ourselves, whether that's helping vulnerable families break the cycle of poverty, backing a local dog shelter, or simply being generous with our time and energy. It’s not always about donating cash (though that’s powerful). You can give by showing up, sharing a cause with your network, or using your skills to support something you care about.

Here are some of the ways you can give back:

Money: set up regular giving to a cause you believe in. Automate it like a bill, because generosity deserves consistency.
Time: volunteer locally. Many orgs need hands-on help or specific skills, from accounting to marketing to just turning sausages at a fundraiser.
Awareness: use your voice and platform. Share posts from charities you care about, or bring them into the convo when you’re networking.
Corporate connections: if you run a business, look at matched giving, pro bono work, or even allocating a % of profit to charity.
Skills: donate your expertise. Not-for-profits often need legal advice, design help, IT troubleshooting, things you might take for granted.

However you choose to give, do it in a way that’s sustainable, joyful, and aligned with your values. Because giving, like wealth, isn't the end goal: it's a means to something bigger.

Here are all the charities I support through the business and personally as well. If you’re unsure where to start, read through this list and perhaps you’ll be inspired. Or look locally around you! Choose whatever initiative you value. Above is an episode I recorded with Mark, who founded one of the key charities I like to support. Have a watch and hear his fascinating story.

And if you aren’t in a position to be giving money, remember that bringing awareness is just as important. Not everyone has the financial means to donate, but there are other ways listed above that are available to you.

ps. another great way to give back is to donate blood (if you're able to). Check out your eligibility and donation centres near you here.

Community question

Community member says: My husband recently passed, and I’m starting to come up for air and change how I manage my money. Do you have any helpful tips to share?

Glen says: First of all I am so sorry for your loss. It can be difficult thinking about money management after such an event. I hope you’ve given yourself some time to breathe. Please get the support you need with your GP, a counsellor, mental health professional, family and friends, so emotionally you’re supported throughout this time.

My initial thought is to try and build a really joyful life as a single person. It can be such a shock when you’ve spent decades in a couple, so there’s a real mindset shift that comes into play when you’re on your own.

Stick to the high level principals I tell everyone, no matter their age or stage:

spend less than you earn
spend in line with your values
stay invested for your future
give a little money or time to people or causes that matter to you

Look for ways to build scale into your life by sharing costs with others, perhaps others who have also been widowed. Find a friend to share shopping trips with and buy items in bulk to split between you! This tackles two things simultaneously: keeping costs low, and maintaining social connections while you adjust to life on your own. We all need community.

It’s also important to keep in touch with your goals and values. Do you want to go on a trip? Would you like to invest in a hobby that brings you joy? Keep your goals rolling so you always have something to look forward to.

Think of this new season of life as a new and exciting phase. Find ways to feel connected, enjoy your money and keep it simple. But also give yourself time and space to grieve, losing a partner is a big shock. So ensure you reach out for help when you need it.

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