You don’t need to earn a fortune to build wealth that lasts. In this interview, we chat with the author of Starting Early: The 10 Steps to Financial Freedom to learn how anyone can take simple, practical steps toward financial security. Pierre Lever shares easy tips, common mistakes to avoid, and a mindset that makes growing wealth feel achievable for everyone. If you’re looking for advice that works, this is the perfect place to start!
Congratulations on the new book! What motivated you to write ‘Starting Early’?
Financial literacy is an essential life skill, yet it’s often neglected in traditional education. Many people begin their financial journeys without understanding the basics, which can have lasting consequences. I wanted to create a concise and accessible guide that demystifies wealth-building concepts and empowers readers to take control of their financial future. My goal was to show that financial freedom isn’t just for the wealthy; it’s achievable for anyone with consistent habits and discipline, no matter their income level.
When did you start your investing journey?
I began my investing journey in my early twenties, soon after starting my first job. The concept of compound interest - how small, consistent contributions can grow exponentially over time - became the foundation of my approach. Even when my budget was tight, I prioritised investing. Over the years, I’ve refined my strategy, but those early habits remain a cornerstone of how I approach wealth-building today.
Who is the intended target audience for ‘Starting Early’?
The book is written for new earners and young professionals who are just starting to navigate their finances, but it’s equally valuable for anyone looking to build strong financial habits. Whether you’re a recent graduate, transitioning careers, or even further along but unsure of how to secure long-term financial stability, Starting Early offers clear, actionable steps. The goal was to make it jargon-free and practical.
Out of the 10 steps, which are your top 3
and why?
Start Early: Compound interest is your best
friend. Give it time to work.
Avoid Short-Termism: Wealth is built slowly.
‘Quick wins’ usually stack up to long term
losses.
Buy Index Funds: Low-cost index funds like
the S&P 500 are reliable and, relatively,
stress-free investments.
If you could give someone reading this one piece of advice, what would it be?
Don’t let the perfect be the enemy of the good. Instead of waiting until your salary goes up, or for some other ’golden’ opportunity later in life to begin investing, make a start today. Start setting aside a small percentage of your income and set up a recurring monthly payment into a low cost, S&P 500 index fund, within an ISA, from a large, reputable provider such as Vanguard or Fidelity. Then, let it grow while you focus on living your life. Compound interest will quietly work its magic in the background.
Our chat with the author of Starting Early shows that building wealth is about smart choices and simple habits, not big earnings. No matter where you are in your journey, the best time to start is now. Take that first step today! Grab a copy of Starting Early: The 10 Steps to Financial Freedom and start your journey to lasting wealth which will be available here from 28th November 2024.