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Alex:
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That's so true!
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Zahra:
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What?
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Alex:
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Oh, this article on the cost
of living. It says, "The world in general is becoming a
more expensive place to live." I mean, I never seem to
have enough money.
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Zahra:
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Why? What do you spend your
money on?
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Alex:
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Oh, I don't know - rent, food,
transport, going out. I live from pay to pay. I can't save anything.
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Zahra:
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Have you thought about doing
a budget, writing down what you spend?
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Alex:
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No, I'm not that organised.
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Zahra:
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Well, you should try it. I
did it about two years ago and now I manage to save a few dollars
each pay. It really helps. I wish I had done it sooner.
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Alex:
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Yeah?
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Zahra:
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Yes. It really helps you to
see where you waste money and to find ways of saving. If I had
done it when I was younger, I could have bought my own home
by now.
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Alex:
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Do you really think so? House
prices are so ridiculously expensive. I don't think I'll ever
be able to afford one, unless some rich relative dies and I
inherit a lot of money.
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Zahra:
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Well, you never know. But
yes, I think I could have. I've saved quite a bit of money since
I started budgeting. I've even bought a few shares and done
quite well with them.
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Alex:
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Really? Shares are a bit risky,
aren't they?
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Zahra:
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Well not if you're careful
and get some good advice. I see a financial counsellor, and
she's really helped me a lot. You really need to explore all
your options.
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Alex:
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You're right, especially on
our wage. Sometimes I really regret not going to uni. I could
have got a much better job if I had.
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Zahra:
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Oh, don't be so negative.
You're young and have lots of opportunities. You should make
the most of them. Look at Rani, she's worked really hard, even
changed countries, and now she's got a good job and fantastic
career options. You could do the same.
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Alex:
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I know, but all Rani does
is work. I want to enjoy life, too.
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Zahra:
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Sure, you need to find a balance.
But, you can't just sit back and let opportunities pass you
by. Why don't you see a careers counsellor? It might give you
a clearer idea about what you want to do.
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Alex:
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That's not a bad idea. To
be honest, I'm a bit anxious about all the changes happening
here. I'm really worried about losing my job. It would be good
to have more choices.
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Zahra:
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Yes, it would. I am quite
concerned, too. Even if the company moves, there's no guarantee
that they won't sack some of the staff. I really wish I had
accepted that job I was offered at KPY last year. I would have
been in a more secure position now if I had. But as my mother
always said, there's no point crying over spilt milk.
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Alex:
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True. Who knows, we may be
fine. Hey, I've got to go and buy some lunch. Do you want me
to get you anything?
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Zahra:
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No, I've brought a sandwich
from home. That's part of my savings plan - no buying lunches.
Oh, hang on. Yes there is something you can get me.
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Alex:
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What?
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Zahra:
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A lottery ticket!
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Alex:
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Sure. I'll buy one, too. You
never know, our luck might be about to change!
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