If you're part of Generation X or a late baby boomer like me, you've probably noticed that life feels more like The Breakfast Club—with a twist. 

Back in the day, we were rebels and dreamers, finding our way through high school cliques and defining ourselves to the soundtrack of Don't You (Forget About Me). 

Fast forward to today, and we're still those same people, but now we're juggling grown or teenage kids, aging parents, and financial pressures including mortgages or rent. The stakes are higher, but the spirit of our youth is still very much alive.

I'm Vanessa Stoykov, a money educator with over 30 years' experience helping Australians make good decisions when it comes to finances and life. 

Through my new column Flourishing After 50, published every Sunday, I will help you work out how to live a more fulfilled and exciting life - even with all the challenges we face. After all, we're not slowing down! We're not 'pre-retirees' on the cusp of winding down, and we don't want to be labelled that way. There's still so much life to live, so much to do, and yes, so much fun to be had.




Leading money educator Vanessa Stoykov will answer readers' questions about how to best prepare for a fun-filled retirement in her new  weekly column Flourishing After 50

We're Not Done Yet

Just like in our youth, when we didn't want to be put into a box, many of us in our 50s feel the same way. Yes, we're responsible for a lot, but that doesn't mean we're ready to give up on enjoying life. From reconnecting with old friends to finding new hobbies, we want to stay active and live vibrantly—without feeling weighed down by the pressures of day-to-day responsibilities.

It's a juggling act, for sure. Whether you're still working, sensa138 supporting kids in their 20s, or helping elderly parents, it can be easy to let your own happiness take a back seat. But here's the thing: we've got to make time for ourselves. We've got to prioritise our health and happiness first. I can personally vouch for that. When I turned 49, I decided to try Pilates. Now, at 51, I feel stronger and more confident than ever. It was one of the best self-investments I've made. 

Your Money Questions Answered

Send your questions to Vanessa at flourishingafter50@dailymail.com.au. 

One of the biggest stressors for people in their 50s is money. We're still paying off debts, juggling the costs of family life, and wondering how we'll manage our superannuation. It's a lot, and sometimes it feels overwhelming.

That's why I'm here. Flourishing After 50, in partnership with Daily Mail Australia, is more than just a column about managing your finances; it's a space for you to ask the questions that keep you up at night. 

Whether it's about the smartest ways to tackle various debts, handling a large mortgage, or preparing for retirement without giving up on life's pleasures, I encourage you to write in with your questions.




It's possible to live a happy and balanced life even with the pressures of large mortgages, juggling the costs of family life and financial concerns about retirement, says Vanessa 

Not only will I answer them, but my large circle of financial adviser friends are more than happy to lend their expertise. Between us, we've got the answers to help you flourish financially - and to show that it's possible to live a happy, balanced life even when things get complicated. Plus, for the best question of the week, we will send you a free copy of my book The Breakfast Club for 40-Somethings.

If you're looking for ways to improve your financial wellbeing, I've got free resources on my website that can help. From blogs to videos, there's plenty of guidance available to help you make smarter money decisions. I also offer online learning courses designed for people in their 50s who want to unlearn old money habits and embrace a healthier, wealthier future.