The statistics show that only about six percent of South Africans will reap the benefits of a carefree retirement without any financial worries. Some of the reasons for this low rate include the fact that individuals don?t save enough, they rely solely on their pension funds and more importantly, many women still rely on their partners to provide for both of them.

"Remember, Ginger Rogers did everything Fred Astaire did, but she did it backwards and in high heels" ? Faith Whittlesey

Most women are far too busy performing a balancing act, while juggling their careers, household, wifely, motherly and daughterly duties, to think about their retirement. This often leaves this widely admired and respected Superwoman at the back of the queue when it comes to her needs being met.

While most of us have big dreams for our retirement years, we often postpone planning for these dreams as various demands and responsibilities continuously boil to the surface. Although these tasks are important, women need to realise that by pushing their long-term plans aside, they are neglecting their financial futures and may be forced to suffer the consequences of a troubled retirement later. Having to compensate for financial freedom at a later stage is more costly than if tackled sooner.

So, how can women ensure their future financial well-being while juggling the relentless demands placed on them on a daily basis? Taking control of your financial life and planning for your retirement involves a step-by-step process.

Step 1: the what

Be clear and determine your lifestyle goals and objectives in the short, medium and long term. Just doing this will already give you some control over your life.

Step 2: the how

Be independent and determine if your lifestyle objectives are realistic. The secret of financial security does not lie in how much you have, but in what you do with what you have.

Step 3: the why

Be thoughtful and decide for yourself why it is important for you to determine your lifestyle goals and be financially secure. Financial independence is very closely associated with the choices of a career and a partner as well as the right to be treated with respect and to accept responsibility for your own life.

Step 4: the when

The most important requirement to achieve financial independence is to make sufficient financial provision to maintain your desired lifestyle. In a nutshell, the solution is to plan and save.

So don?t waste another moment; it?s time to look after number one, and that?s you! It is indeed admirable that by woman?s very nature, we try to be everything to everybody. However, we need to take time out and re-evaluate our lifestyle goals.

There is no time like the present, so get the ball rolling. Start with your lifestyle goals and let an independent financial planner assist you to achieve your desired lifestyle. Just like you?d ensure a stylist cuts your hair or doctor takes care of your health, make sure you let a professional take care of your financial future.