Sanlam Reality - Spring 2019/Summer 2020 by Machine_

www.sanlamreality.co.za • Spring 2019/Summer 2020

Why therapy’s modern makeover means there’s someone for everyone

health

Work smarter, not harder

wealth

Beginner’s guide to the stock market

travel

Visit Japan without breaking the bank

debate

Should you post about your kids online?

Double your savings every time you swipe.

Introducing the Sanlam Money Saver credit card – the only credit card that adds as much as 5% of everything you spend to your savings. 5%

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Managed by Sanlam Reality, the loyalty programme of the Sanlam Group. Facilitated by RCS, as the Registered Credit and Authorised Financial Services Provider NCRCP 38. FSP 44481. The Cash-back Bonus is administered by EasyEquities, an Authorised Financial Services Provider. FSP 22588.

Spring 2019/Summer 2020 On the cover 6

18 36 52

SHOULD YOU POST ABOUT YOUR KIDS? THERAPY: WHY THERE’S SOMEONE FOR EVERYONE WORK SMARTER, NOT HARDER BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO THE STOCK MARKET VISIT JAPAN WITHOUT BREAKING THE BANK

Also inside

9 WELLNESS 20 THE 60-MIN ROUTINE THAT’LL CHANGE YOUR LIFE Join the 5am club... 22 FOOD MYTHS, BUSTED Some of these will surprise you! 24 1 IN 3 OF US IS AN INTERNET TROLL Unpacking this modern ill 29 WEALTH 32 DISCUSSING YOUR SALARY AT WORK Is it okay? 38 WHY WE NEED TO INVEST IN WOMEN How it helps us all 40 LET’S TALK ABOUT ‘BLACK TAX’ What is it and why does it matter? 43 TRAVEL 46 IMMERSE YOURSELF Add these cultural experiences to your bucket list 50 MAGIC IN HOGSBACK Explore the Eastern Cape hamlet 57 ENTERTAINMENT 60 NO-COOK MEALS YOU’LL LOVE! They’re super-easy 64 5 MINUTES WITH… Loyiso Madinga 67 REAL WORLD Start saving like these members…

Win

gym kit to help you get ready for summer – plus, save R975! PAGE 8

contents

We l c om e Do you have your phone out while you’re reading this? Perhaps you’re pretending to listen to someone while glancing at this page. Stop! It’s time to pay attention – not for the sake of this letter, but for the sake of your sanity. According to a 2018 Deloitte study, we lose 37.5 minutes a day in productivity thanks to the distraction of our phones. But multitasking or multi-tabbing (when you have 101 things open on your phone or computer, and are still keeping an eye on those email notifications) isn’t just wasting your time, it’s impacting your ability to do good work. It’s preventing you from focusing on the most important task at hand, versus trying to tick off your whole to-do list at once. You’re never going to get through everything. Isn’t that such a relief to admit? So instead of having every tab open, choose the most important task at hand. Prioritise where your time – and skills – are best used. Say no to the other stuff, or move them to the bottom of the list, knowing

Sanlam Reality is the loyalty programme of the Sanlam Group and its strategic partners. The programme helps members to make the most of their money in a way that’s honest, meaningful and real. Sanlam Reality empowers its members to make responsible financial choices and enables them to live their best financial lives possible. All because Sanlam Reality believes that taking care of your money should be rewarding.

SANLAM REALITY PROGRAMME Head of marketing and communication Francois Uys Communications manager Lucille Moore Communications coordinator Hasina Khan SANLAM REALITY CALL CENTRE Telephone 0860 732 548/9 Email info@sanlamreality.co.za Website www.sanlamreality.co.za

that they just may not happen. The result? You’ll get the right things done well. You’ll re-set expectations on the other tasks. You’ll realise someone else can do those other things better (or that they never mattered that much anyway). You’ll change your life. See why attention management is more important than time management on p.18. But don't stop there – then turn to p.20 for a revolutionary morning routine that’ll pave the way for a more rewarding (and productive) day, every day! SARAH BROWNING-DE VILLIERS, EDITOR

Photography: Kirsten Mackrill, Shutterstock, supplied

Our contributors KABIR JARDINE Jardine is a young, intrepid writer whose curiosity spans creative fields and countries. After a visit to Japan (on a budget!), he was perfectly placed to write about how to take this trip yourself, and keep it affordable. [+] See more in the feature on PAGE 52.

EDWAIN STEENKAMP A writer and editor, Steenkamp has written for the likes of Marie Claire and House & Garden. In this issue, he unpacks the taboo of talking about your salary at work – and why knowledge is power. [+] See more in the feature on PAGE 32.

REAL FUTURES (PTY) LTD Real Futures is a wholly-owned Sanlam Ltd company managing the Sanlam Reality Programme for the Sanlam Group. Chairman Jan Steenkamp Directors Gary Allen, André Larisma, Theesan Moodley, Company secretary Ulishia Baijnath

PUBLISHED BY NARRATIVE FOR SANLAM REALITY EDITORIAL Editor Sarah Browning-de Villiers Email mag@sanlamreality.co.za Content editor Dominique Bowen Contributors Cebokazi Sotobe, Christine van Deemter, Edwain Steenkamp, Ivo Vegter, Kabir Jardine, Katelyn Allegra, Kirsten Mackrill, Lynette Botha, Nicci Botha, Sam Newdigate, Sarah Hoffman, Tanya Kovarsky, Tori Hoffmann, Tracy Lynn Chemaly PRODUCTION Head of production Nicky Scheepers Traffic manager Ashleigh Tremearne CREATIVE Group creative director Brendan Hoffman Art director Marisa Steyn NARRATIVE Managing director Gareth McPherson Business unit director Lauren Brabant Chief content officer Sarah Browning-de Villiers Account director André Nieuwoudt CAPE TOWN HEAD OFFICE Tel: 021 487 9100 Email: mag@sanlamreality.co.za 50 Harrington Street, Zonnebloem, Cape Town, 7925 PO Box 16258, Vlaeberg, Cape Town, 8001 All content and pricing correct at time of print.

Printed by

A division of Novus Holdings

Published by Narrative. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrievable system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, photocopying or otherwise without the prior written permission of the copyright owners, Narrative Media Group, Harrington Street, Cape Town, 7925. Printed by Novus Print. While reasonable precautions have been taken to ensure the accuracy of advice and information given to readers, the editor, proprietors (Real Futures (Pty) Ltd) and publishers cannot accept responsibility for any damages or inconvenience that may arise from incorrect information.

Printed on paper sourced from sustainable forests.

www.sanlamreality.co.za

SPRING 2019/SUMMER 2020 REALITY

Kick back before you take off

Enjoy free Bidvest Premier Lounge access with Wi-Fi, snacks and drinks.

Use in your Sanlam Reality App

To find out more, go to www.sanlamreality.co.za/benefit/bidvest. T&Cs apply. Exclusive to Reality Plus and Health members.

meet the members

MEET THE MEMBERS YOU TELL US WHY SANLAM REALITY IS

r e w a rd i n g USE YOUR BENEFITS

Reality Plus and Reality Health members buy one ticket, get one free (up to R300) on Computicket. Visit www.sanlamreality.co.za/ benefit/computicket or call 0860 732 548/9. OPHELIA HARDISTY FROM CAPE TOWN

Photography: Shutterstock, supplied; Interview: Dominique Bowen

REALITY Health MEMBER

“I feel like I’m being rewarded for good health!” “My favourite is the gym benefit – getting money back when I have diligently gone to the gym every month.” “The Computicket benefit is a bonus for date night with hubby” “The buy one, get one free Computicket benefit really appeals to me as I love the theatre and live shows.” “Bidvest Premier Lounge access is a big plus” “I have travelled a lot in the past and found myself spending a lot of time in airports, so being able to access the airport lounges for free is amazing. Sanlam Reality also helps me to save money with flight discounts, which I use especially for when I’m booking last-minute flights.” www.sanlamreality.co.za

AMANDA ZONDO FROM DURBAN Save up to 30% on Mango flights. Visit www.sanlamreality. co.za/benefit/ mango-flight.

Enjoy R30 (2D) tickets and R35 refreshment combos at Nu Metro. Reality Health and Plus members also enjoy R50 tickets (3D). Book in the Sanlam Reality App, or visit www.sanlamreality. co.za/benefit/nu-metromovies for more. Download the Sanlam Reality App

REALITY Plus MEMBER

“I’m always raving about the programme” “There was no hesitation to sign up to Sanlam Reality; I knew I would benefit from it. The discounts allow my money to stretch further while I get to enjoy myself living my best life.” “One of my favourite benefits is the Mango flights discount” “I think I’d collapse if I had to pay the normal rate for a flight again! I also enjoy the private lounge access at airports…. Waiting for a flight has never felt so good.” “The movie discounts are a winner for me” “Entertainment is my thing. I constantly need to de-stress and get my mind off my hectic life. Thanks to Sanlam Reality’s Nu Metro discount, movies have become affordable for me.” SPRING 2019/SUMMER 2020 REALITY

the other side of reality

Should you be ‘sharenting’ online? ‘Sharenting’ is when parents share content of or about their children online. Parents have been proudly capturing and sharing the moments of their little ones for years – but should they think twice about doing so in a digital era?

TANYA KOVARSKY Former journalist and magazine editor; now an award-winning parenting blogger and copywriter. She’s a mom to two children, and the founder of Dear Max and Rebecca, and Rattle and Mum.

“DOCUMENTING OUR CHILDREN’S MILESTONES IS NOTHING NEW” I’m a ‘sharenter’. I post pics and content of my kids online, and even make a living from it. I have a blog dedicated to my kids and our lives called Dear Max and Rebecca. Spoiler alert: while I only put around 30% of our lives ‘out there’, it’s very much still ‘out there’. Why would I even do that, you may ask? For starters, my personal blog is an online journal that my kids will hopefully one day enjoy reading. More selfishly, I like connecting with and inspiring other moms, and my sharing and writing have launched an income-generating parenting

platform, Rattle and Mum. To keep that up, I choose to post content featuring my kids. It’s sharenting all right, but I’m quite strict about what I post. For example, I would never share anything that would likely embarrass my kids or harm their reputation now or further down the line. I cringe when moms post about their kids’ potty-training woes, learning difficulties, tantrums and social issues. If I had to one day read what my mom wrote about how I cried before swimming galas, how I stole sweets from a shop, and how I didn’t give up my dummy until the age

6 REALITY SPRING 2019/SUMMER 2020

of four, I’d probably be upset. That’s my tale to tell, and it’s my choice whether to put it out there or not. Our younger kids don’t have a choice about what we write about them, or what pictures we post, and I’m pretty sure my son wouldn’t appreciate it if I posted a picture of his cute toddler bum eight years ago. Just as we create an online CV or digital footprint for

put editing touches to what we publish about our kids. It’s not a lie; it’s a cut, and I believe they deserve that. I think in this digital age of sharing and connecting, it’s acceptable to put our lives out there, but ask yourself: “How will my child feel when they see this one day?” and “How would I feel if my mom had posted this about me?” If necessary, take it down a notch, stop chasing the

“In this digital age of sharing and connecting, it’s acceptable to put our lives out there.” ourselves, the same applies to our kids, and I’m cautious that one day universities or recruiters could be digging into my blog and social media to see any ‘warning signs’ about my son. Will what I’ve portrayed about him thwart opportunities? Just as we add filters to our selfies, I feel we should

‘likes’ and give your kids the online respect that they deserve. Taking cute photographs of our kids (their birth, their first steps, the first day of school, etc.) is nothing new. But with the digital age comes a whole new context and audience for sharing this type of content. www.sanlamreality.co.za

SARAH HOFFMAN Speaker and associate at The Digital Law Company, SA’s thought leader in matters relating to social media and the law. Her practice areas include online reputation management.

Photography: Shutterstock

“EVERY POST REFERENCING YOUR CHILD CONTRIBUTES TO THEIR DIGITAL CV” Today, for many children, a digital footprint begins in utero with photographs of ultrasound scans posted by excited parents-to-be. In a report published last year by the UK’s Children’s Commissioner Anne Longfield, it was found that the average child has around 1 300 photos and videos of them published on social media by parents before they turn 13. While the intentions are almost always good, sharenting can give rise to a suite of risks. By sharing content relating to our children without their permission or consent, we are assuming their right to www.sanlamreality.co.za

privacy, a fundamental right in our constitution. The common law principle in South Africa is that the more you protect your privacy, the more privacy you have.

beach is posted on social media, how would she feel about it when she is 14? If your privacy settings are not sufficient, posting content relating to your child could let strangers find out their name, school, birthday and friends – certainly not information you would share with a stranger. Moreover, seemingly innocuous photos could be manipulated by paedophiles and online predators. The same UK report shared a forecast that by 2030 ‘sharenting’ will account for ²/³ of identity fraud. By simply using a name, date of birth and address – which could be found in a geotagged birthday photo on Facebook, for example – someone could store this information until a person turns 18 and then begin opening accounts in their name. What parents may think cute and endearing (say, a strange hairstyle) could be interpreted differently by their children’s peers, have a negative effect on their child’s self-image, or potentially lead to cyber-bullying. Every photo, video or post referencing your child contributes to their digital footprint and digital CV – an online record that is often hard to delete. While a post

“It’s estimated that by 2030 ‘sharenting’ will account for ²/³ of identity fraud.” Source: Children’s Commissioner report, November 2018 But when our children are small, they are unable to do anything to protect their own privacy. While our twoyear-old wouldn’t know the difference if a cute, halfnaked photo of her on the

about a tantrum or argument may seem innocuous to you, we need to start thinking about how this type of content may appear to a university, scholarship provider or even employer.

Sharent as safely as possible If you’re going to share photos and videos of your children online, here are some tips from The Digital Law Company to make it safer:

LIMIT PERSONAL INFORMATION

Do not share unnecessary personal information such as birthdates, geotags, names, addresses and schools.

CHECK YOUR PRIVACY SETTINGS

Ensure that your posts are only visible to your friends by checking your privacy settings on your social media accounts. Importantly, be discerning when adding friends or accepting friend/ follow requests.

DON’T POST EMBARRASSING PHOTOS

Before you post any content relating to your child, consider whether the content will embarrass them when they are older and whether it could be misconstrued. If you have any doubt, don’t share it.

GET CONSENT

As soon as your child is old enough to understand, ask them for permission before posting. Even if they are too young to read your social media feeds, consider whether they would grant consent when they are older.

NO NUDES

As cute as the photo of your toddler in the bath is, remember that there are some unsavoury characters out there who could use such a photo in a not-so savoury way.

SPRING 2019/SUMMER 2020 REALITY

competition

Claim your free towel

and water bottle

+ Save R975! Do something your body and wallet will thank you for this summer! Sign up for any independent gym or studio as part of your new Independent Gyms & Studios benefit. Get up to 60% off your monthly fee! Don’t pay any joining fees – that’s a R975 saving! Receive a free towel and water bottle from us. That’s it! You focus on staying healthy, we’ll focus on rewarding you. Scan your visits by using the Sanlam Reality App.

Find an independent gym or studio near you

How to sign up

Visit www.sanlamreality.co.za/benefit/independentgyms-and-studios or tap on the ‘Independent Gyms & Studios’ benefit in the free Sanlam Reality App.

Once you’ve found a gym or studio you’d like to join, contact them to join. Let them know you’re a Sanlam Reality member so they can apply your discount.

Use in your Sanlam Reality App

Competition closes 21 January 2020. T&Cs apply; visit www.sanlamreality.co.za/terms-and-conditions for full T&Cs.

wellness Eye spy

Sunglasses are no longer simply on-trend fashion accessories. The right pair of shades could decrease your chances of cataracts and macular degeneration, a leading cause of vision loss. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s never too early to start, so get your kids into the habit, too.

Polarisation reduces glare, but doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t equal protection. Make sure lenses offer 100% protection against UVA and UVB, or UV400.

Choose wrap-around shades that protect you from every angle.

Bigger is better. Small, round lenses may look stylish, but they do nothing for the sensitive skin around your eyes.

Lenses should be perfectly matched in colour and free from distortions or imperfections.

YOUR w e ll n e ss BENEFITS

As much as 60% monthly discount at Virgin Active (Reality Health only)

As much as 80% monthly discount at Planet Fitness

As much as 80% monthly discount at JustGym

NEW!

As much as 60% off monthly fees at Independent Gyms & Studios

Go to www.sanlamreality.co.za/benefits/health to view your specific benefits, tier status and discount percentage. www.sanlamreality.co.za

SPRING 2019/SUMMER 2020 REALITY

wellness

How to exercise on holiday

(without hating it)

Incorporating easy exercise habits into your holiday routine will help maintain your fitness while you feast guilt-free. Thomas-James Romburgh, a Virgin Active personal and master trainer, suggests the following:

HEAD OUTDOORS

EARN TIER POINTS Complete our quick online Wellness Check at www.sanlamreality. co.za/earn-points, and you’ll earn

3 000

tier points – easy!

Find a mountain, go for a hike, a cycle, early-morning beach walk or sunset stroll. Keeping active in this no-fuss way not only burns calories, but is great for your overall mental health.

STRETCH Stretching is a fundamental part of overall performance and injury prevention. Even if you decide to lay low this holiday season, incorporate a stretching routine into your day. It increases your range of motion and blood circulation, and can be done just about anywhere.

USE YOUR WEIGHT While you’re away from your full-body gym workouts, take on simple exercises that make use of body weight, such as planks and squats. They will preserve your general fitness and allow an easier return to regular routines in the new year.

USE YOUR BENEFIT

REALITY SPRING 2019/SUMMER 2020

Visit www.sanlamreality.co.za/benefit/independent-gyms-and-studios to find an independent gym or studio near your holiday destination (in SA); register for a 10-pack and get 25% off 10 classes without committing to a contract.

www.sanlamreality.co.za

Stay

positive

during your job search Looking for a new job at the end of the year can be a demotivating exercise as companies slow down operations before the summer break. As the ‘try again next year’ email responses come in, Jo’burg-based relationships and personaldevelopment coach Thembi Hama advises you stay positive. “Remember, mindset is a choice,” she says. “Resilience pays off, as do hard work and perseverance.”

THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX Hama suggests that you ask yourself questions like, “What else can I do? How else can I do it? What other opportunities are there?”

AVOID BEING IDLE “Keep yourself busy,” says Hama. Use this exploratory time to pursue talents such as acting, singing, dancing, writing, public speaking or cooking. Find ways to broaden your CV, skills and network.

BUILD A NETWORK

Text: Tracy Lynn Chemaly; Photography: Shutterstock

“Hanging around people with a similar vision will motivate and inspire you,” she says, and recommends setting up meetings or coffee dates with people working in your field as you grow your network in the industry.

www.sanlamreality.co.za

Why you should bore your children this holiday RESEARCH SHOWS THAT BOREDOM BOLSTERS CREATIVITY AND STIMULATES IMAGINATION. Jo’burg child psychologist Francilié Raath says that boredom stimulates curiosity and fosters self-discovery. “Boredom can also be good for interpersonal relationships,” she says, “because it may lead to siblings turning to each other to come up with fun activities and invent new games that foster positive experiences of togetherness.” Raath believes that parents can help by limiting screen time, encouraging kids to spend more time in nature, incorporating unstructured time into the day and having open-ended toys and art tools at hand. “Don’t teach your children to be overly reliant on high levels of external stimulation,” she says. “Rather, provide them the space in which to be creative, learn new skills and experiment.” Keep simple wooden blocks, bubbles, play dough, crayons, sand, balls and hula hoops lying around to encourage mindfulness and stimulate the imagination and creative thought. Raath also recommends being bored with your children, reconnecting with your inner child and engaging in unstructured play with them to discover new ways of being in the world together.

SPRING 2019/SUMMER 2020 REALITY

Of course dancing counts as exercise!

60% Save up to

at Independent Gyms & Studios.

Use in your Sanlam Reality App

Visit www.sanlamreality.co.za/benefit/independent-gyms-and-studios to find out more. T&Cs apply.

wellness

1 In 6

people globally have a mental health or substance-use disorder

In South Africa,

1 In 3

people will have a mental health issue in their lifetime

You’re more likely to have depression if you’re born

after 1945 Sit around a dinner table and ask your friends how many of them have a therapist: chances are, they all do. For some it’ll be to stay mentally healthy; for others it’ll be to improve their career success. We explore this new normal and how you can harness it for your own happiness.

MID-1980s VS 2010s Teens today are

more likely to have seen a professional for mental health issues

University students are

50%

more likely to say they feel overwhelmed

THERAPY IS NOW A NORM

42%

of adults have seen a counsellor or therapist in their life

72%

of people are open to therapy or counselling

YOUNGER GENERATIONS ARE DRIVING THIS

21%

of millennials

16% of Gen X

ARE CURRENTLY IN THERAPY

of baby boomers

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of elders

SPRING 2019/SUMMER 2020 REALITY

23% Other

19%

A friend or family member recommended this person

39%

A doctor referred me to this person

How are people finding a therapist?

12%

I found my counsellor on the internet

They practise through my religious organisation

They were listed by a mental health non-profit

What is prompting people to turn to therapy? 30%

A doctor’s recommendation A trauma (loss of a loved one, loss of a job, disease, accident, divorce, etc.)

28% 25%

Treatment for a mental illness

17%

Consistent mental health maintenance

14%

Couples’ counselling when my marriage faced trials

14%

Other

Curiosity about therapy

A religious leader’s recommendation

Required pre-marital counselling

What do people most care about when choosing a therapist? Affordability (including insurance coverage)

46% 42%

Specialisation or expertise

34% 22%

13% 9% 8% 6% 3%

every year: estimated global cost of lost productivity due to depression and anxiety

A life transition (marriage, moving, starting a new job, having a child, etc.)

19%

18%

THERE IS A COST TO NOT TALKING

Years of experience Positive reviews from people I personally know Proximity or convenience Education level Someone similar to me (such as same age, gender, background, etc) Similar religious background Someone with more or different life experience to me Accolades or awards

REALITY SPRING 2019/SUMMER 2020

WOULD YOU TALK TO A ROBOT? Increasingly, artificial intelligence (AI) is being used to provide support and care digitally. Apps like Youper (an ‘emotional health assistant’) and Woebot (‘your charming robot friend, ready to listen 24/7’) allow you to talk to a chatbot about things that make you anxious, to track your mood, complete guided meditations and more. They make therapy accessible and affordable, integrating it into your everyday life. But they aren’t a replacement for professional, human care – as Alison Darcy, Woebot’s founder recently said: “The potential for AI to ever take the place of humans in this realm is, I think, massively overhyped.”

Try these apps HEADSPACE For: easy-to-follow meditation and mindfulness exercises, from beginner to expert.

YOUPER

For: tracking your mood and being able to talk to a bot when anxious moments hit.

WOEBOT

For: daily check-ins and conversations to help you feel better.

www.sanlamreality.co.za

wellness

LIFE COACHING: A TYPE OF PERFORMANCE THERAPY

year-on-year increase in life coach bookings on professional marketplace site Bidvine

54%

35%

of Gen Zers already have a life or performance coach in place

of these bookings are made by people aged 18-22

WHY ARE PEOPLE USING LIFE COACHES?

64% To achieve their goals and be successful

Sources: World Health Organization (2004, 2013, 2017, 2019), Barna 2018 (based on American research), LifeCoachSpotter. com, Hay Group, 2013 Executive Coaching Survey by Stanford University and the Miles Group, 2017 Global Consumer Awareness Survey, Social Indicators Research 2015, The Guardian, South African Depression and Anxiety Group

51% To find happiness

48% To find their life purpose

44% To do what they love

COACHING CAN HELP WITH CAREER SUCCESS

40%

43%

of Fortune 500 companies utilise executive coaching

To decide on or change their career

WHAT AREAS ARE CEOS GETTING COACHING IN? Sharing leadership/ delegation skills 37%

35%

22%

CEO is working on this skill

Conflictmanagement skills 28%

43%

Mentoring skills/ developing internal talent 18%

CEOs believe this skill needs development

www.sanlamreality.co.za

23% 21% 24%

Teambuilding skills 23% 18% 13%

Directors believe this skill needs development

39% To be more confident

“My coach keeps me accountable”

“I meet with my life coach monthly – his job is to help grow me in any way that impacts my career. “I approached him to be my coach based on the respect I grew for him when we used to work together. I trust him and he’s strong in areas that I know I need to work on professionally. “We have one-hour sessions over coffee. Sometimes I come prepared with challenges or tasks he’s set me from a previous session; other times we just talk and unpack the things I’m working on. He helps me by connecting me to people in his network, by offering advice or by holding me accountable. I’ve given him permission to give me uncensored feedback. He’s there to challenge me in ways that I cannot challenge myself. “Having a coach drives my career forwards by constantly assessing how I remain successful, happy and fulfilled. It’s easy to get stuck in the day-today and, before you know it, you’ve been doing something for years without ever asking yourself if you’re growing or are happy. “I pay experts to manage my money and health; I see investing in my career wellbeing with an expert in a similar way.” – Sarah Browning-de Villiers, Reality magazine editor

FIND A LIFE COACH

Life coaches in South Africa are regulated by COMENSA (Coaches and Mentors Association of South Africa). Find accredited coaches via www.life-coachdirectory.co.za.

SPRING 2019/SUMMER 2020 REALITY

wellness

Something for everyone As the need for therapy grows, so do the types of therapy available. Tracy Lynn Chemaly explores a few of the more unusual ones. Dr Barnaschone, who believes that BodyTalk has helped her manage negativity. TRY: SA BodyTalk Association bodytalksystem.co.za HELPS TO: tackle emotional challenges or identify underlying causes for issues Bloemfontein-based counselling psychologist Dr Melissa Barnaschone suggests finding an alternative-healing practitioner with a background in science, medicine or allied health professions. She recommends BodyTalk for people who are grappling with emotional challenges but aren’t yet ready to talk about them. During a session, the body responds to structured ‘yes’ and ‘no’ questions, releasing long-held thoughts or belief systems that no longer serve you. The practitioner places her hands around your arm and asks a series of questions (silently, in her head) and receives the responses directly from your body – hands move in one direction for ‘yes’ and in the other direction for ‘no’, leading her to the part of the body that is blocked and signalling the associated area of thought that requires release. “Some personal questions do get asked, but you have the option of simply considering the question without giving an answer,” explains

HELPS TO: access your subconscious Cape Town business coach Leigh Bowden, 38, suffers from anxiety, but has never found traditional therapy to be sufficient. Bowden has been attending hypnotherapy sessions and swears by the results. This isn’t the kind of stuff that leaves your actions in the control of someone else. Instead, expect to be guided into an intensely deep state of relaxation where your awareness is heightened and your subconscious is able to surface. Bowden finds one exercise her hypnotherapist does

particularly helpful: “He makes me imagine my role models sitting around a table, and tells me to ask them a question about an issue I’m dealing with.” She then considers each person’s point

of view. “I’m answering it for myself, because you have the ability to heal yourself.” TRY: The Hypnotherapy and Ethno Psychology Association of South Africa, www. hypnotherapyassociation.co.za

STAY SAFE

Seek out a practitioner who is accredited or certified by a larger body.. Don’t be afraid to ask your therapist to send you a copy of their accreditation before making your booking. It helps if your practitioner has done CPD-accredited training (continuous professional development), meaning the course had to go through a regulatory body. Alternatively, many registered counselling psychologists incorporate alternative healing practices into their work. Look for someone who is university-educated with a master’s degree in psychology and has expanded their offering to include the modality in which you are interested.

REALITY SPRING 2019/SUMMER 2020

www.sanlamreality.co.za

Eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing HELPS TO: access and deal with trauma Jo’burg certified financial planner Bryan Shepstone, 57, uses eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR) to deal with depression, after his psychologist suggested it. Originally designed to help with trauma, EMDR uses bilateral stimulation (BLS), administered via eye movements following the therapist’s finger, sounds alternating from one ear to the other through earphones, or by using a machine with vibrating tappers that buzz from side to side. It allows clients to

stems from undiagnosed ADD as a child, and appreciates the way EMDR allows him to revisit decisions taken many years ago and to see them with a more mature perspective. TRY: Therapist Directory, www.therapist-directory.co.za

‘real’ or serious business of life. “Play helps you be in a better position to make personal decisions and to gain strength to face your challenges.” TRY: Psychotherapy online, www.psychotherapy.co.za

HELPS TO: become more self-aware Dr Hannie Schoeman, director of the Centre for Play Therapy and Training near Gansbaai, advocates a more hands-on approach. Through working with trays of sand and moulding clay, adults can immerse themselves in playful activities that invite them

HELPS TO: ease negative self-talk and bring calm Rebirthing breathwork, also known as conscious energy breathing, focuses on breathing for healing. By using breath, without pauses between in and out breaths, a dynamic flow of energy is created in the body, releasing negativity and creating a state of calm and clarity. Gladys*, 46, an attorney from Pretoria, works with a breathwork facilitator to help her replace negative beliefs with positive ones. Gladys’ sessions begin with a conversation around the current challenges in her life, followed by 40 minutes of guided deep breathing. “It’s a gentle, safe process,” she says. “Emotions emerge and the facilitator helps me breathe through them so that I remove blocks in my subconscious and can breathe fully and freely.” She cites feeling more confident and alive among the benefits. “Rebirthing

Photography: Shutterstock

“Play helps people be in a better position to make personal decisions.” target and process specific memories, stuck emotions or bodily sensations. “It helps when there’s something you can’t really put your finger on, because stuff comes up quickly and easily. It’s like a short circuit to the problem; what I’d hoped hypnosis would be,” says Shepstone. He believes his depression

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to focus on themselves. This method is based on the Gestalt philosophy that you learn through experimentation. “Play is self-directed, with no fixed outcomes,” Dr Schoeman explains. “Rules and structure are not dictated, so it can be imaginative, non-literal and removed from the

WILL YOUR MEDICAL AID PAY?

Jeremy Yatt, CEO of Fedhealth, explains that medical schemes generally fund therapies where there is documented evidence of a clinical advantage that benefits both the patient and the medical scheme. For example, a psychologist consultation for weight issues, where it’s known that weight loss can improve health and decrease the risk of chronic disease and complications. Certain benefits for therapy (such as psychotherapy for mental health) are covered from risk, offering a certain number of out-of-hospital, face-to-face consultations with a psychologist, psychotherapist or psychiatrist. Others are covered by savings, where claims are received from a trained, registered provider with a valid practice number. These include acupuncture, homeopathy, naturopathy, osteopathy and phytotherapy. “Make sure that you’re on the correct healthcare option,” says Yatt.

utilises the force of breath, which has a healing effect that cannot be matched by traditional talk therapy.” TRY: Holistica, www.holistica.net *Name has been changed.

Need help finding a specialist? Ask your free Personal Assistant by messaging them in the Sanlam Reality App, calling them on 0860 732 458/9 or by visiting www.sanlamreality.co.za/benefit/personal-assistant.

SPRING 2019/SUMMER 2020 REALITY

wellness

You’ve been doing management all wrong In order to reach peak productivity, you have to learn how to focus on attention, not the clock. Christine van Deemter looks at why attention management – not time management – is the skill you need today.

“H

ow are you?” “Tired, thanks for asking!” This has become a standard response among friends and colleagues. But when did constantly being exhausted become a badge of honour? Every morning, we “rise and grind”, we “chase the hustle”. We humblebrag about our busyness and bemoan the fact that we’re always available, as if some invisible punishment awaits us if we relax for just one second. Yes, we all have bills to pay and deadlines to meet… but surely it can be done in a manner that doesn’t pulverise our souls to dust? If only there were more hours in the day… And therein lies the problem. Chasing the clock is seen as the golden ticket to getting more done, but could it be that hankering after more time is actually making us lose time? Enter: attention management. Shifting your focus to attention, instead of time, could help you master your to-do list, not by ticking things off faster, but by adjusting what, and how, you tick.

WHAT IS ATTENTION MANAGEMENT? “In an information-rich world, the wealth of information means a dearth of something else: a scarcity of whatever it is that information consumes,” said economist and Nobel laureate Herbert A Simon back in 1971. “What information consumes is rather obvious: it consumes the attention of its recipients. Hence a wealth of information creates a poverty of attention.”

The myth of multitasking

How our obsession with doing two things at once leads to doing nothing right. Think you can watch TV and read at the same time? How about texting while spending time with your kids? You might assume you’re being super-efficient by doing two things at once, but you’re actually not doing either properly. “Numerous studies indicate that multitasking is not as effective as focusing on the task at hand,” says Dr Tromp. Every time you switch between tasks – even if you think it takes only a split second – your brain has to stop and start. This interrupts your attention. Focusing on one thing at a time means you’ll be more present and complete the task better and faster. Only then are you ready to move on to the next one.

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HOW TO MANAGE YOUR ATTENTION The brain cannot process all of the information thrown at us, so it compensates by slacking off on attention. We need to get back to controlling it. “Attention management is working with intent, working proactively, maximising your focus and being present in the moment,” says Jo’burg executive coach Dr Marlet Tromp. “To give your full attention to the task at hand means not only finishing the task to tick it off your list, but to finish the task with improved results.”

ATTENTION MANAGEMENT VS TIME MANAGEMENT “Time management is managing your time to be able to get your tasks done in a reasonable time. The focus is on completing the task and not on giving it the attention it needs,” Dr Tromp explains. Attention management is when you give each task the focus it needs to be completed, without distractions or interruptions. “This leads to improved

• Minimise distractions. This means social media notifications, talkative colleagues, the allure of the Google Doodle… don’t give yourself excuses to be sidetracked. Turn off notifications, quit your email app and give the task your full attention. Without these distractions, you’ll likely find it’s completed faster than you planned. • Set boundaries when you’re busy with a task by being assertive with colleagues or family. Decline meetings and politely say no to passers-by who’d like to chat. • Turn off your phone or put it on silent – not vibrate. • Close your office door, find a quiet spot to work or wear headphones. • Do one thing at a time. You cannot possibly concentrate on your finance spreadsheet when you’re also watching TV, scanning the news,

“A wealth of information creates a poverty of attention.”

Illustrations: Shutterstock

productivity, better-quality work and selfempowerment. When giving attention to a task, the information retained improves and the experience of the task is truly felt,” she adds. Attention management may mean that you complete fewer tasks – but you will complete the most important tasks thoroughly: the tasks that rightly require the bulk of your attention. Effective attention management involves prioritising certain tasks, and delaying or delegating those that would not make the best use of your focused attention.

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and replying to a WhatsApp group chat. One thing at a time! • Meditate. Use an app like Calm for a few minutes each day. “Mindfulness training is one method to learn to be in the moment and work towards giving your full attention to the task at hand,” advises Dr Tromp. Perhaps start your day with 10-20 minutes of meditation.

How to teach your kids to pay attention Kids grow up with screens – and while this has many educational benefits, it could also lead to a lack of attention management. If your kids get distracted by every beep and buzz, they’ll never learn how to be productive adults. Here’s how to plant the seed while they’re young: Teach your kids to focus on one task at a time. Let them take regular breaks (not just to check their phones, but also to walk around outside). Help them differentiate between something that will negatively impact their learning ability (social media notifications) and something that won’t (soft music in the background). Minimise distractions. Use apps like Flipd or Moment and website restriction tools such as Selfcontrolapp.com, turn off notifications and alerts and have tech-free zones at home. Remember to practise what you preach – Mom and Dad need to put their phones down, too, and give full attention when working on a task or talking to the kids.

Start your day right! Turn over for more on this.

Need help with tasks? Ask your free Personal Assistant to help! Call 0860 732 548/9, message them in the Sanlam Reality App on your phone, or visit www.sanlamreality.co.za/benefit/personal-assistant.

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wellness

This routine will change your health, wealth

! e r o m &

Elite performance expert Robin Sharma has transformed lives with The 5am Club. Find out what it is – and how it could recharge not just your day, but your life, here. By Lynette Botha

s someone who regularly rises at 5am, when I first heard of The 5am Club, I didn’t get the big deal. “If you have kids, you’re likely part of that club anyway,” I mumbled. But on further inspection, I realised that there is a lot more to it than just getting out of bed early…

SO, HOW DOES IT WORK? Created by motivational master and elite performance expert Robin Sharma, the concept of The 5am Club is simple: wake up at 5am and follow the 20/20/20 formula: move

(20 minutes of exercise); reflect (20 minutes of meditation and planning); and grow (20 minutes of study). It’s not the actual practice that is difficult – it’s sticking to it, every day. Sharma, who developed this concept over 20 years ago, has had many high-profile clients – including Richard Branson and Bill Clinton – reap the results. He instructs new users to commit to 66 days initially: the time it takes to create a new habit.

WHY 5AM? As Sharma writes: “When you’re up early and all alone, away from the

REALITY SPRING 2019/SUMMER 2020

overstimulation and noise, your attention isn’t being fragmented by technology, meetings and other forces that can limit maximum productivity.” This ‘holy hour’ will prep you for the day like nothing else. “It’s so easy to forget that you cannot do good until you feel good. Organisational leadership begins with self-leadership. Getting up early to do your inner work, to sculpt your character, to sharpen your life’s philosophy or to review your goals is not a waste of time,” says Sharma. “That Holy Hour infuses every remaining minute of your day with a perspective that elevates each area of your

life. It’ll transform you. Make you better as a leader. As a parent. As a human being.”

TRIED & TESTED By using the book’s step-bystep methods to protect the quietest hours of the morning in order to create space to exercise, renew and grow, many have already found value in the practice. There are various positive testimonials, including one woman, who was used to rising between 8-9am, proclaiming that after just two weeks she was accomplishing more than ever. Susie Moore, Business Insider contributor, writes: www.sanlamreality.co.za

The routine

5am-5.20am Move: 20 minutes of exercise. What: intense exercise – you need to sweat. Remember to hydrate and breathe deeply. Why: cleanses cortisol, increases dopamine and serotonin, and elevates your metabolism. Benefits: increased focus and productivity; reduced stress.

5.20am-5.40am Reflect: 20 minutes of meditation and planning. What: journal, meditate, plan, pray or contemplate. Why: boosts gratitude, awareness, happiness and wisdom. Benefits: increased positivity, creativity and overall performance.

5.40am-6am Grow: 20 minutes of study. What: review goals, read or listen to a podcast/audio book, or study. Why: deepens knowledge, accelerates growth and confidence. Benefits: inspires, drives personal growth and allows you to unlock skills and capabilities.

“Producing has never been a problem for me. But getting additional hours and focus from an early start is like adding gasoline to your day. [Also] applying Sharma’s ‘60/10 method’ – working for

other 20/20, the first part of your day is kept device-free. This cannot be overlooked. “I’m familiar with the depleted feeling of checking social media frequently throughout the day and

someone who exercises late in the afternoon, after work, he couldn’t bring himself to exercise first thing; instead, he divides the hour into 30/30. He meditates and plans for 30 minutes and studies or reads non-fiction for the other half. “Now that I’ve been doing this for four months, my body almost wakes up automatically at 5am – it’s no longer a struggle and I actually look forward to it,” he says. “The biggest takeout for me has been that we always say ‘I don’t have the time’, but this golden hour really changes everything. It’s quite incredible how a fairly simple change can have such a great impact. “Because I don’t start my day on my phone, I barely even look at it before I reach the office, and my mindless scrolling has reduced. I feel much more protective – and in control – of my time.”

“It’s so easy to forget that you cannot do good until you feel good.” 60 minutes straight without interruption, followed by a 10-minute refuel in the form of a quick walk or just making tea and sitting on the sofa – has helped me complete projects faster.”

Photography: Shutterstock

THERE’S NO ‘I’ IN SCREEN Because the programme suggests that you start your day immediately with exercise, followed by the

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constantly being reachable via email and text. Fully waking up first and applying the 20/20/20 formula ensures you start the day device-free while setting self-directed intentions for the day ahead (not living from the inbox out),” continues Moore. This sentiment is echoed by a friend of mine, who recently told me that he’s part of The 5am Club too, but he’s mixed things up a little. Having always been

Great idea

Sharma suggests starting by buying an alarm clock, because technology can be distracting and should not be in the bedroom. Set it 30 minutes fast, then set an alarm for 5.30am. Fooling yourself into believing you’re getting up later actually has a positive effect when starting out.

WIN! 1 OF 5 COPIES OF THE 5AM CLUB We’ve got five copies of Sharma’s book, The 5am Club, (normally R270, HarperCollins) to give away! Simply use any of your health benefits before 31 December 2019 and you’ll be entered into the draw. T&Cs apply.

For early-morning exercise near you, use the Independent Gyms & Studios benefit, which lets you get up to 60% off monthly fees and 25% off classes. Visit www.sanlamreality.co.za/benefit/independent-gyms-and-studios.

SPRING 2019/SUMMER 2020 REALITY

wellness

Food myths

busted!

Between what you’ve heard from your aunty or read on the internet, it’s hard to know what’s true and what’s not. Tori Hoffmann spoke to the experts to debunk a few food myths.

UGAR MAKES KIDS HIGH

Believe it or not, there’s a chance it’s the kids’ parties and not the sugar that trigger a ‘wild child’. According to Cape Town paediatrician Dr Paul Sinclair, even though parents often comment that sugar makes their kids hyper, “there is limited evidence to confirm this. In fact, some studies have shown decreased levels of cognition and activity after pure sucrose intake,” he says. Dr Sinclair explains that it’s important to understand that many sweets and candies also contain colourants, preservatives and other additional ingredients that can trigger central nervous system reactions. “Equally, it’s critical to know that no one is ‘allergic’ to sugar – it’s just not possible.” He adds that controlling sugar intake has both short- and longterm benefits at all ages, but especially in children where learning and developing cognition are critical, and everything should be consumed in moderation.

IT TAKES SEVEN YEARS TO DIGEST CHEWING GUM Seven years is a long time… and there are probably a lot of people out there who are still wondering how much longer their childhood Chappies have to go. But take heart: what goes in must come out, and Jo’burg dietician Nicqui Grant has some good news. “The

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ingredients that make up chewing gum make it indigestible. While gum is not designed to be swallowed, it generally doesn’t get digested either, but rather moves through the gastrointestinal tract much like indigestible fibre would. It passes out in the stool within a few days,” she says. Having said this, she warns that large quantities of swallowed gum can cause gastrointestinal blockages, especially in children.

THE FIVESECOND RULE MAKES FOOD SAFE TO EAT Sorry, folks, but it takes less than a fraction of a second for bacteria to contaminate your food. “Scientists have disproved the five-second rule,” agrees Grant. “Depending on where the food is dropped, bacteria can contaminate it immediately, and the longer the food lies

on the floor, the bigger the contamination load gets.” There’s more bad news: “The moisture content of the food and the floor can also play a role, as does the floor type i.e. carpet, wood or tiles. Studies have found that carpets are less likely to transfer bacteria than tiled floors.”

EGGS INCREASE CHOLESTEROL While many people believe that eggs have a negative impact on cholesterol and can cause heart disease, Cape Town GP Dr Gisela Wagenaar says: “It’s simply not true.” She explains that although an average-sized egg yolk contains about 185mg of cholesterol (the white is mainly protein), it’s nothing to worry about. “Medical research has shown that the main portion of the cholesterol that rises with the consumption of eggs is the HDL (high-density lipoprotein) or ‘good’ cholesterol. The total cholesterol and LDL (low-density lipoprotein) or ‘bad’ cholesterol usually remains unchanged.” She adds that eggs are also high in antioxidants like lutein, and the only situation where excessive consumption of eggs is not advised is in individuals with a very strong familial cholesterol history, because, in this case, it can alter the total cholesterol level.

CHOCOLATE IS AN APHRODISIAC While it’s true that chocolate contains a small amount of phenethylamine (PEA), a chemical that stimulates the nervous system and triggers the release of feel-good, opium-like compounds known as endorphins, “there’s no such thing as an aphrodisiac, and no food is an aphrodisiac,” explains sexologist Dr Marlene Wasserman (a.k.a. Dr Eve). “What’s actually happening is that the chocolate (which has

become known as the ‘love drug’) relaxes you and makes you more likely to want to be sexual. But it’s not actually the chocolate that is an aphrodisiac.”

Photography: Shutterstock

YOU MUST DRINK 8 GLASSES OF WATER A DAY Water is crucial for many processes in the body, including metabolism and temperature regulation. While it’s vital that you drink plenty of it, every day, “the basic rule of eight glasses a day has been oversimplified,” attests Grant, as this is really just an estimate. Why? Proper fluid intake has more to do with you as an individual: “The amount of water you should consume depends on a number of factors, including your body weight, activity levels, the season, medications taken, your age, and so on,” she explains. “A rough guide would be 250ml of water per 10kg of body weight, plus 500ml for exercise, heat and other losses.” Don’t forget – some of those fluids can come from foods, too.

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EARN TIER POINTS Bust your health misconceptions, too! Take a Basic Medical Test at Dis-Chem or Clicks and you’ll earn

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wellness

1 In 3 of us is an internet

. l l tro Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why

Once upon a time, trolls were the wicked creatures that lived under bridges in fairy tales. Now they reside in your digital devices. Internet trolls wreak as much mayhem as their mythical counterparts, and you likely know one or two. By Nicci Botha

REALITY SPRING 2019/SUMMER 2020

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HAT IS A TROLL?

Trolling, according to Urban Dictionary, “is the deliberate act… of making random, unsolicited and/ or controversial comments on various internet forums with the intent to provoke an emotional knee-jerk reaction from unsuspecting readers to engage in a fight or argument”. But trolls aren’t necessarily sociopaths who lurk in the deep, dark corners of cyberspace. Anyone can become a troll given the right circumstances, a 2017 study by Stanford and Cornell universities revealed. The researchers discovered that, given the right cues and provocation, the troll that dwells in all of us will emerge.

WHERE DO TROLLS LIVE? “Trolling occurs across all digital platforms,” says Verlie Oosthuizen, head of social media law and partner at Shepstone & Wylie Attorneys. Neighbourhood groups are a popular breeding ground for trolls too, because this is often a large and diverse group of people with widely varied views and life experiences. “Most of us belong to at least one WhatsApp group; it’s become a popular way of connecting and communicating. It can be fascinating to see how a group can have a neutral or positive conversation about a topic, until that one person posts a comment that derails the whole conversation,” says Rianette Leibowitz, CEO at SaveTNet Cyber Safety NPC. It was on her community group that 51-year-old Erica S* from Centurion revealed her inner troll. “It started off with a conversation about who was responsible for removing the election posters. One of the regulars made a comment about one of the www.sanlamreality.co.za

female politicians. He probably thought he was being funny, but I found it sexist, and I saw red,” admits Erica. It didn’t stop at this one encounter. “I’m ashamed to say I started picking on him. Every time he’d make a comment – even if I totally agreed with him in my head – I would come up with some snide reply, which would blow up the whole discussion,

embarrassing him. That was my wake-up call,” she says. Erica’s remedy was to block her victim so she wasn’t tempted to respond to his comments.

THE PSYCHOLOGY OF TROLLING We tend to say things online that we’d never say in a face-to-face encounter. The digital world has created a space where there is less perceived physical threat if you offend someone. They can’t reach through the screen and punch you. You also can’t read their facial expressions to see the extent of the hurt you may be causing. Psychologist John Suler called this the ‘online disinhibition effect’ back in 2004. He says there is

“We tend to say things online that we’d never say in a face-to-face encounter.” with Team Me and Team Him fighting it out,” she says. Erica says it took her son, who also belongs to the neighbourhood group, to make her realise just how toxic her behaviour had become. “He told me I was

a positive side, where the anonymity of the internet gives shy or normally inhibited people a voice. The negative side, however, includes the nasties like trolling, cyberbullying, hate speech and racism. Microsoft’s 2017/2108 Digital Civility Index (DCI) is the latest among the plethora of research related to the disinhibition effect. It looks at the levels of harassment experienced by internet users across

22 countries, including South Africa. The categories were defined as: • Intrusive risks (unwanted contact, hoaxes or hate speech); • Behavioural risks (trolling or harassment); • Sexual risks (sexual solicitation, extortion or revenge porn); • Reputational risks (doxing – publishing a person’s or organisation’s private information on public platforms; professional or personal reputation damage). Globally, 39% of cyber risk falls into the behavioural category. Over one in five of the people surveyed said they had been treated mean (22%) or trolled (21%) online. Both behaviours were among the top five risks to participants.

SOUTH AFRICANS BEHAVING BADLY The Microsoft survey showed that South Africans’ online behaviour was the second worst, ranking 21 out of the 22 countries surveyed: • 56% Of South Africans have been called offensive names online, compared with 51% globally. • 45% Of South Africans said they had been embarrassed online, versus 38% globally. Laura J*, 45, from Cape Town never imagined that a casual comment on a news story would lead to a nightmare. She was chatting with another Facebook user when a third party jumped into the conversation “ranting and raving”. This troll started

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wellness

DON’T FEED THE TROLL While Laura’s case is particularly scary, Aimeé Serrão, director at

Humour can also work. “This way you acknowledge the troll and diffuse the situation.” Most importantly, know when to stop the interaction, especially “if you see that engaging with the troll is having a negative effect”. Any trolling behaviour should also be reported to the relevant platform, most of which have protocols in place to deal with offenders. Laura took a different approach. “I decided to ‘befriend’ him. He calmed down, but would randomly tell me he had a bullet with my name on it. While speaking to him, I searched his name on Google. He had limited friends

“Any trolling behaviour should also be reported to the relevant platform.” Arion Communications, suggests some approaches if you’re being trolled. One is to block the troll; if you do engage with them, do not respond in a negative way. “Think carefully about how you’ll respond. Always try to be positive and polite. Acknowledge the troll and thank them for their viewpoint,” she says.

on Facebook, but he listed a school he attended and the place he worked. I didn’t want to block him because I needed to know his plans. I would reply once a day. If I didn’t reply, he’d start to swear and threaten again. Once I’d established enough about him, I told him what I knew about him and that SAPS were on their way to arrest him. I blocked him after that.” Laura’s advice is to: • Keep your online profiles private, even your work info. • Don’t accept friend requests unless you know the person. • Keep your private life off Facebook. “I only use my

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Help! My child is trolling other people The DCI showed that 76% of teenagers had been trolled or bullied online. So what do you do if your child is the bully? Leibowitz has some pointers for parents: Having a good relationship with your child is the best defence. Share advice and support, and ask them what they do online and who they talk to. Be ‘friends’ with your children online to help them feel accountable for their behaviour. Value-driven behaviour is key. Help your child understand that if it’s not acceptable to lie, provoke or be rude to a person in real life, then why would it be okay in cyberspace? Everything we do online becomes part of our digital footprint and could have negative consequences when applying to university or finding a job. Remind your child that few things done online are truly anonymous, and there may be bigger consequences for their future. Ensure your child is adhering to the age restrictions of the apps they use. Ask your child to imagine themselves in their victim’s shoes: how would they feel? If you can identify who your child is trolling, consider arranging to meet face-to-face or do a phone call for your child to apologise for their behaviour – it may help them see the person on the other side of the screen as real. Like any toy or privilege, if your child cannot behave responsibly with it, consider suspending access until they are better able to behave appropriately.

Facebook for keeping in touch with friends and posting jokes.”

CAN YOU TAKE LEGAL ACTION? Under the Protection from Harassment Act 2013, a person sending unnecessary and frequent cruel, offensive or threatening messages to an individual may be guilty of direct harassment, a form of cyberbullying. Indirect harassment may include rumour-mongering on social media. If the victim has a clear idea of the identity of the troll, he or she can approach the

court for a protection order. If the abuse is anonymous, a victim may approach the court with the perpetrator’s IP address. The court can order that the service provider reveal the identity of the person. The Cybercrimes and Cybersecurity Bill stipulates that people found guilty of malicious online behaviour, including inciting and threatening violence, damage to property and messages containing intimate images sent without the person’s consent could face jail time. *Names have been changed.

While you focus on healthy online engagement, we’ll provide you with the data for it. Reality Plus and Reality Health members enjoy 1GB of free AlwaysOn Wi-Fi every month. Visit www.sanlamreality.co.za/benefit/wi-fi to learn more.

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Photography: Shutterstock

targeting Laura, following her from social media platform to platform. He made a poster using her Facebook photos and posted it online saying she was a recruiter for a terrorist organisation. He used obscene language, and threatened to rape and kill her. “The person was vile on the news site and sent me private messages on Facebook. He spoke as though he knew me and my location. I was in tears.”

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For more information, go to www.sanlamreality.co.za/ benefit/sanlam-life-cover. T&Cs apply.

wealth Would you return a found wallet?

China Kenya India

A behavioural economist and his team at University of Michigan ‘lost’ over 17 000 wallets in 40 countries. The result? 40% Of wallets containing no cash were returned, compared to 51% of wallets containing a small amount of cash. South Africa was among the countries least likely to return a wallet; Switzerland, Denmark and Australia came out tops.

South Africa Chile

22% 15% 19% 22% 44% 29% 39% 35% 37% 39%

United States

57% 49% 59%

Russia

52%

Australia

69% 68% 82%

Denmark

74% 79%

Switzerland

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wealth

Spread your DIVERSIFYING YOUR INVESTMENT PORTFOLIO IS ONE OF THE BEST WAYS TO MANAGE YOUR RISKS.

1 Understand your own risk profile. This determines which asset classes should be included in your investment portfolio.

4 Build your portfolio with a blend of complementary funds.

eggs

REALITY SPRING 2019/SUMMER 2020

Research and select fund managers, understanding their fund’s objectives and investment philosophies. If you have a financial planner, they should be doing this for you – ask them how they’ve selected fund managers on your behalf.

Consider the types of funds available, where they are allowed to invest, what they are allowed to invest in and their respective risk classification. Unsure? Speak to your financial planner to decode jargon.

Understand the costs associated with this portfolio. Check your statements and ask your planner about any costs you aren’t sure of.

Keep monitoring and rebalancing your portfolio. Meet regularly with your financial planner to keep things up to date.

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How to decide between a

e f i l r o g n i v li EARN TIER POINTS Speak to a financial planner to create a personalised investment portfolio that suits your needs and lifestyle. You’ll also earn

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tier points. Call 0860 732 548/9 or visit www.sanlamreality. co.za/contactan-adviser.

annuity when you retire

WHEN YOU UNLOCK YOUR PENSION OR RETIREMENT ANNUITY, HOW YOU REINVEST THAT MONEY IS CRUCIAL FOR YOUR RETIREMENT YEARS. When you retire from your pension or retirement annuity fund, you have to reinvest two thirds of the money to ensure a future income. You can either invest in a guaranteed life annuity or a living annuity. Karen Wentzel, head of annuities at Sanlam Employee Benefits, breaks down the pros and cons.

LIVING ANNUITY Market-linked and will fluctuate depending on the performance of its underlying investment portfolio. You can choose how much you want to draw as income annually. (Pensioners are obliged by law to take an income from 2.5%-17.5% per year.)

Text: Amanda Visser; Photography: Shutterstock

EARN TIER POINTS How much should you be saving towards your retirement? Use the free retirement calculator on our website. You’ll earn

If the drawdown rate remains below the growth rate of the investment portfolios, you’ll likely have capital remaining to leave as an inheritance once you pass on.

LIFE ANNUITY Life annuities can offer the assurance that you won’t outlive your capital.

Medical expenses may increase at a rate higher than inflation.

Life annuities provide an income for life with increases annually.

Life annuities also won’t leave capital for your dependants to inherit once you pass on.

Not all types of life annuities guarantee that the increases in income will keep up with inflation.

1 000

tier points! Visit www.sanlamreality. co.za/wealth-sense/ retirementcalculator for more.

www.sanlamreality.co.za

SPRING 2019/SUMMER 2020 REALITY

wealth

t u o b a k l a t u o y d l ? u k o r o Sh w t a y r a l a s r u o y

“Never talk about money.” It’s one of the first lessons we’re taught, up there with religion and politics. Yet censoring conversations about money – including how much we earn – could be doing us damage. Edwain Steenkamp explores why.

hink back to your very first job. You were most likely overworked and underpaid. Many of us accept it as a normal part of our professional growth. But after this formative time, things get a little more unclear: how much should you be earning? When and how should you be asking for an increase? If these are such pressing concerns, why is talking about money at work so unheard of?

TOUGH TALK According to the School of Economic and Business Sciences at Wits University, unfair practices flourish in the workplace when salaries are kept secret. It’s true that talking alone won’t solve financial stress, but transparency can go a long way in effecting positive change. Knowing how salaries are structured and how they are allocated can help address inequality in the workplace. It can also give you a clearer picture of the requirements for increasing your salary. When we talk openly about money, we can learn from one another – for example, what someone else is doing to increase their earnings. Transparency around salaries guides companies to be transparent with employees about their increase, bonus and promotion processes, too.

AM I ALLOWED TO TALK ABOUT MY SALARY AT WORK? Contrary to popular belief, your employer cannot stop you from discussing your salary with a colleague, or the terms and conditions of your employment. Janie Slabber, an attorney and specialist in labour relations from Slabber Attorneys, says that it’s common practice for employers to contractually prohibit employees from disclosing salary information. “Some even venture as far as ‘criminalising’ such disclosure by imposing disciplinary action,” she explains. “However, section 78(1)(b) of the Basic Conditions of Employment Act, No 75 of 1997 (BCEA) holds differently. It provides that www.sanlamreality.co.za

‘every employee has the right to discuss his or her conditions of employment with his or her fellow employees, his or her employer or any other person.’” Slabber adds that any disciplinary action taken against an employee for exercising their rights could be regarded as substantively unfair and lead to an adverse finding against the employer. Take heed, though: while you

“Any conversation about money should be done with sensitivity and the right intention.”

can’t be stopped from disclosing your salary to others, you are prohibited from disclosing a colleague’s salary. Any conversation about money should be done with sensitivity and the right intention. Consider the impact on relationships and trust in your workplace, and be mature about evaluating the kinds of conversations that will or won’t be beneficial (not just to you, but to those you work with).

HOW TO TALK ABOUT MONEY AT WORK 1. Have the right intentions What is your purpose for discussing your salary? If it is to boast, think again. If it is to understand whether you are being paid fairly compared to your peers, this is a better reason.

2. Bite the bullet Give your boss the benefit of the doubt. Start by having an open conversation with them, saying you’re not sure about how salaries are structured in the business and that you’d like to understand if you’re earning fairly. Give your boss the chance to be transparent with

Payroll A 2018 Career Junction study, looking at over 17 000 jobs per month, shows South Africans’ average earnings. ADMIN CLERK Lower end: R11 128 Higher end: R15 226 CIVIL ENGINEER Lower end: R32 388 Higher end: R70 826 BOOKKEEPER Lower end: R14 504 Higher end: R22 994 IT MANAGER Lower end: R48 059 Higher end: R66 141 MARKETING MANAGER Lower end: R42 729 Higher end: R56 275 ELECTRICIAN Lower end: R20 267 Higher end: R32 758

SPRING 2019/SUMMER 2020 REALITY

wealth

How to ask for a raise

A GOOD 1 BUILD TRACK RECORD A stellar record is your best motivation. Make sure you deliver and excel in key performance areas.

2 PRACTISE YOUR PITCH

Practise what you’re going to say, and write notes of your key points, with evidence of how you’ve performed or added value in these areas. Be specific, for example, how you were involved in the increase of sales figures, or the number of people you’re managing.

BE TRANSPARENT

Don’t beat around the bush; it’ll only prolong the process. Be clear about your wishes.

UP 4 FOLLOW IN WRITING

Get whatever is agreed during your meeting in writing (follow up with an email outlining what was discussed), as well as a timeline for when the agreed items will be implemented.

FOR 5 ASK FEEDBACK

Give your boss time to get the ball rolling. If they aren’t convinced, ask for feedback on your work and ways you can grow to secure that raise. If you’re still dissatisfied, approach HR.

you rather than assuming they wouldn’t be if asked. It’s respectful and shows that you’re well-intentioned. “I found that honesty is best,” says 31year-old production manager Christian Geldenhuys. “I realised I was being underpaid and knew I needed to do something about it. I spent so much time devising plans on how I could get a raise, and it was really stressful. In the end, I decided to approach my boss and be honest.” Geldenhuys says that the anticipation was worse than the actual conversation. “I told my boss I was ready for more responsibility and would like to grow, and thus also grow my salary. It was an open, rewarding conversation that got both of us onto the same page.” If you don’t hear what you want to hear, that can also be positive – perhaps it’s time to look for opportunities elsewhere.

3. Consider your timing Throwing around figures after a few drinks at the office party is to be cautioned against. Talking about salaries should remain professional, purposeful and helpful – not a matter of a gossip.

4. Understand the full picture You may have a colleague in a similar position to you, but perhaps they have years more experience or have been at the company longer. There are various factors that can contribute to someone’s salary. Don’t jump to the conclusion that you are earning more or less without fully understanding what may impact someone’s take-home figure. In the same way, remember that someone’s package encompasses more than their pay: leave dates, working hours and other benefits play a part.

NOT HAPPY WITH WHAT YOU HEAR? Assuming you’ve been given the information you need, research market-related salaries. You can also contact recruiters to fact-check

REALITY SPRING 2019/SUMMER 2020

“Talking about salaries should remain professional, purposeful and helpful – not a matter of gossip.”

any findings. Your company may also have a policy document around how it assigns increases, bonuses and promotions that you can request from HR, including salary brackets per promotion level.

Ask for a raise If your concerns prove to be warranted, it’s time to approach your employer. Prepare your findings so that you can make a fact-based case. Calmly ask for the salary you believe you should be paid, explaining your reasons to justify this. Don’t become aggressive or accusatory; listen and take notes to the response you receive.

Feel genuinely discriminated against? “Minimum wage standards are set for various industries,” says Slabber. “If you’re earning below R205 433.30 per year and feel that your employer is not meeting these standards, you have a number of options.” • Where the minimum wage is regulated by the Sectoral Determination, employees may approach the Department of Labour; • Where minimum wage is regulated by a Bargaining Council Main Agreement, employees may approach the relevant bargaining council, who will follow the same process as the Department of Labour; • Where the minimum wage is regulated by the National Minimum Wage Act 9 of 2018, employees may approach the Commission of Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA); • If you earn above the R205 433.30 threshold, an employee would need to approach their employer about their remuneration. www.sanlamreality.co.za

Get cash-back when you borrow

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wealth

A beginner’s guide to the stock market Investing in the stock market is easier than you think. Sam Newdigate breaks down how you can put your money to work.

S THE STOCK MARKET FOR ME?

According to head of Sanlam iTrade, Gerhard Lampen, there are more than 100 000 people in South Africa who invest online in the stock market, most of whom are “ordinary people” who have learnt how to invest for themselves. Remember that the stock market comes with risks; the outcome is never guaranteed. You’re putting your trust in companies that can be affected without warning by anything from political changes to a tweet from a CEO.

SAVE OR INVEST? Although both have to do with increasing money for the future, saving and investing have different goals and timelines. Investing in the stock market isn’t the same as saving.

Saving

What you put in is pretty much what you get out. Time period: 0-5 years. Goal: New car, a holiday, an emergency fund. Pro: Withdraw when you need to, low risk of losing money. Con: Because you’re less willing to take risks with this money, you won’t be rewarded with as good a rate. Your money won’t grow as much.

REALITY SPRING 2019/SUMMER 2020

Investing

Put away money now so you can get more money in the future. Time period: 10-50 years. Goal: Your children’s university education, your retirement, growing your wealth without a specific purpose. Pro: Your money grows exponentially over time. Con: Investing involves a risk. The more you risk, the more reward you can see. But this means you could lose money, especially in the short term.

www.sanlamreality.co.za

Tips for buying your first stock RESEARCH ONLINE

“You will need to spend some time reading and learning,” says Lampen. Online information, like the courses he offers through the Sanlam iTrade Academy, is free. Look at the fees, learn about the company behind your stock, and decide on how long you’re planning on investing.

CONSIDER AN ETF

ETFs are an easy way to invest in a collection of different stocks from top companies. For your first investment, it’s easier to have a suggested basket of stocks that should perform well.

DO A DEMO

“Investment platforms often let you try out investing with fake money first,” says Lampen. Practise investing without the risk before taking the plunge.

EARN TIER POINTS

GO TAX-FREE

In 2015, the South African government introduced a tax-free programme to encourage investing. Invest up to R33 000 every year and don’t pay income tax, dividends tax or capital gains tax on the returns. Go to taxfree.jse.co.za for more.

SET UP A REGULAR PAYMENT

A monthly debit order into an investment means money will go out of your account before you have time to miss it. Think of it as a payment to your future self.

BE PATIENT

Watching your investment rise and fall can be stressful. Nicolé Cupido, brand manager at Sanlam Investments, has this tip: “Stay the course. Markets fluctuate, but always remember that investing is for the long term.”

WHEN SHOULD I START INVESTING?

HOW DO STOCKS MAKE MONEY?

If you haven’t already started investing, the second-best time to start is right now. Investing requires time. Time allows your money to grow exponentially with the power of compounding interest. Markets also need time. Although they might drop suddenly tomorrow, they tend to grow in the long term.

There are two ways to make money from stocks: 1. Over time, the company you have a share in will hopefully grow and your stock will become more valuable. You make money when you sell your stock for more than you bought it. 2. Profitable companies can use their profits to

strengthen their business, but they might also give a portion to shareholders as a dividend. Not all companies pay dividends.

WHAT IS THE RISK? Investing is about finding which companies will do well through research. Sometimes they don’t do well. This means you might not make money when you

Speak to an expert financial planner to get the right, personalised advice. Plus, you’ll earn

8 000

tier points! Visit www.sanlamreality. co.za/contact-anadviser for more.

sell your shares. You may even lose money. Financial risk is carefully calculated. If someone is offering you a get-rich-quick scheme that seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Get started online with these Sanlam investing platforms (or speak to your financial planner): Sanlam iTrade: www.sanlamitrade.co.za Satrix: www.satrixnow.co.za Sanlam Smart Invest: www.sanlamsmartinvest.co.za

Talk like an expert (some terms, defined)

Illustrations: Shutterstock

STOCK/SHARE

A share of a company bought for investment. The price of a share is the company’s worth divided by the number of shares the company creates. When you buy one, or a percentage of one, you’re hoping the company does well and the value of your stock increases.

STOCK MARKET/ EXCHANGE

This is one central place where you can buy and sell stocks.

www.sanlamreality.co.za

The Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) is South Africa’s stock exchange – it’s the largest in Africa and one of the 20 largest in the world.

STOCK BROKER

A person or company who buys and sells stocks on your behalf, for a fee. They’re your way of interacting with the stock market and they need to be licensed to do this. Some stockbrokers will

allow you to trade directly on the JSE via an online platform.

SHAREHOLDER

Someone who owns at least one share in a certain company. Sometimes this gives them the right to vote on company issues.

DIVIDEND

Income you get just for having a share in a profitable company, paid quarterly or annually.

ETF

(EXCHANGE-TRADED FUND) A type of stock that splits your investment across a collection of stocks from top companies.

DIVERSIFICATION

Protecting your investment by buying stocks from companies with focuses in different areas. This means that if something bad happens in one sector, you’ve limited the effect it will have on your investment.

SPRING 2019/SUMMER 2020 REALITY

wealth

Investing in women = Gender parity isn’t just a trending topic – it benefits us all. It starts with ensuring girls get access to education. See some of the ripple effects, here.

When we don’t invest in education for women, we limit their opportunities in life:

million

9 million girls of primary

adults remain illiterate

school age globally will never start school, compared to

2/3

3 million boys Source: UNESCO Institute of Statistics, Fact Sheet 56 2019

of them are women Source: United Nations Sustainable Development Goals Report 2019

Failure to educate girls affects population growth and costs the global economy

R227 to R455 trillion Source: The World Bank, Missed opportunities: The High Cost of Not Educating Girls 2018

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals include eliminating gender disparities in education by

Approximately

23%

of black South African women have had no education

28%

2030

enforce a total ban

against girls returning to school after pregnancy Source: UNESCO Global Education Monitoring Gender Report 2019

are not literate Source: Penn Graduate School of Education, GSE Student Research 2016

Source: United Nations Sustainable Development Goals Target 4.5 2019

Countries in sub-Saharan Africa

REALITY SPRING 2019/SUMMER 2020

<½

Less than half

of schools in sub-Saharan Africa have access to drinking water, electricity, computers and internet Source: United Nations Sustainable Development Goals Report 2019

www.sanlamreality.co.za

success for everyone But when we unlock women’s education, we unlock a wealth of benefits for everyone: LIFE EXPECTANCY RISES Children born to literate mothers are

Educated mothers are

more likely to survive

more likely to vaccinate

past the age of five than those born to illiterate mothers Source: UNESCO, Education for All Global Monitoring Report Education Counts 2011

their children

Source: Day of the Girl (Council on Foreign Relations, The World Bank 2014)

POVERTY CYCLES ARE MORE LIKELY TO BE BROKEN When women earn an income, they

ECONOMIES FLOURISH

Additional sources: Global Partnership for Education; Illustrations: Shutterstock

reinvest

90%

into their families Source: Day of the Girl (Council on Foreign Relations, The World Bank 2014)

Increase in women who have secondary education boosts a country’s annual per capita economic growth by

0.3%

Source: The World Bank, Measuring the Economic Gain of Investing in Girls 2011

Increasing education investment for girls could boost agricultural output in sub-Saharan Africa by

25%

Source: IFPRI, Women Still Key to Food and Nutrition Security 2005

WOMEN EARN MORE

1 Extra year in school

can increase a women’s salary by up to

20%

OVERPOPULATION COULD DECREASE Improved female education could result in

fewer people

than the UN predicts by 2100. The faster female education can be scaled up, the greater impact it will have on overpopulation Source: The International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis 2016

Source: UNESCO, Education for All Global Monitoring Report Education Counts 2011

www.sanlamreality.co.za

SPRING 2019/SUMMER 2020 REALITY

wealth

x ’ a t k c a ‘ bl

Let’s talk about

A reality for many black South Africans, it’s time to stop sweeping ‘black tax’ under the carpet. Cebokazi Sotobe unpacks what it is, the different feelings around it, and its impact.

s a country with a difficult past, many black families have sacrificed much to give their children the best chance at realising their dreams. This, however, hasn’t been the role of parents alone; in many families it’s a shared responsibility that includes siblings and even distant relatives. Findings of a 2017 savings and investment study support this: 70% of working, metro-based South Africans are currently supporting family members, or foresee that they will have to do so in the future.

WHAT IS ‘BLACK TAX’? This responsibility is colloquially known as ‘black tax’. Fundamentally, it is about ‘paying it forward’. A family member may have paid for your education, so now it can be expected that as a salaried professional, you are giving regularly to fund the betterment of another in your family. In many instances ‘black tax’ is ‘mandatory’ and typically comes off a person’s salary like their regular payments each month. This may not necessarily be based on

REALITY SPRING 2019/SUMMER 2020

what they can afford, which can curb their ability to grow wealth for their own future at a rate and scale equal to their counterparts from other cultures. “Black tax is rarely a choice,” says Lebo*, 34, from Cape Town. “The expectation is often that things need to happen, and you need to make a plan to fund this. “Black tax isn’t limited to immediate family – you could end up supporting your cousin’s children. Community and family are important, and there’s a sense that your obligation

is to give back. Black tax is a line item in my monthly budget in the form of money for electricity or fixing something at home. Even during a period when I had no steady income, there was no question that I needed to keep contributing. “Even though my mother earns a good pension, she still expects me to contribute,” adds Lebo. “It’s important for me to fulfil this duty, but it’s hard to do so while paying for my own expenses and still trying to create my own savings and investments.” www.sanlamreality.co.za

What about ‘ family in other cultures?

tax’

“Contributing regularly towards your family in my Muslim culture is an honourable responsibility. The Qur’an states that heaven lies under the feet of your mother and places heavy emphasis on family and community.” – Fatima Johnson, Cape Town “My parents were unable to give me any kind of financial start in life. I am fortunate in that they have never been demanding, but I have always assisted with what I could afford. There was never guilt attached when I sent less money some months.” – Candice Landie, Jo’burg “I’ve been unemployed for three years, and only recently found a job. My family did step in and help, but that was when and if they could. If I’m able to help a family member out, I will – but I could never commit to giving a percentage of my income to a family member every month.” – Tamsyn Tazkia Finch, Cape Town

Photography: Shutterstock

IN SUPPORT OF ‘BLACK TAX’ Zandile Xabendlini, 35, lives in Cape Town. She’s been contributing towards ‘black tax’ since her first job. “I had to take care of my sister as soon as I started working at my first job as a call centre agent. My mother had a good teaching job, but a sense of a ‘responsible big sister’ came over me; I began taking some of the financial burden away from my mom. “It began with small things, like every month end I would take her out to lunch. Then it moved on to me buying her clothes. It became a system between my mom and I; who would pay for what, when.” Xabendlini says she and her mom never sat down and spoke about these

PLAN WITH AN EXPERT

www.sanlamreality.co.za

responsibilities; she assumed the role and was sure it was the right thing to do. “Soon after, other family members started coming to me with financial burdens of their own, such as school fees. I took these on as well. During Christmas time I’d make contributions to the groceries even though I wouldn’t be there for Christmas lunch.” Xabendlini believes that your family cannot go hungry or suffer, no matter how committed you are to your own responsibilities. “Tomorrow everyone in my family might be able to stand on their own feet and live affordably, but I will always feel the need to contribute. It’s something in my consciousness that will never go away.”

PAYING IT FORWARD For many, ‘black tax’ is ubuntu in action: humanity towards others; ‘I am because we are’. While Xabendlini acknowledges the financial challenge ‘black tax’ can place on her, she believes it’s an important part of giving back. Mpho*, 33, an accountant from Jo’burg, agrees. “I have been the beneficiary of my

in Jo’burg. “Even though I could afford to move out of home, I stayed. I was earning more money than my siblings and felt obligated to contribute more towards the household amenities. What was done out of love turned into resentment. The burden of taking care of everyone was getting to me, so I researched how other young black professionals

“Fundamentally, it is about ‘paying it forward’.” extended family supporting me through my education and upbringing. They paid for my education, which has allowed me to become a qualified accountant. I’m more than happy to pay this forward to others now that I am earning.”

Not everyone agrees with the term ‘black tax’

“I hate the term ‘black tax’,” says Lesego*, from KwaZulu-Natal. “It has a negative connotation; it is everyone’s responsibility to raise up others as they rise. I’ve derived great happiness from paying the university fees of my younger brother and watching him succeed.”

THE CHALLENGES OF ‘BLACK TAX’ “After tertiary education, I got my first real job in publishing and started to earn good money,” says Koketso*, a journalist based

were dealing with family financial obligations. This is when I came across the term ‘black tax’. Many of the stories I read were about how hard it was to say no. “I decided the best way to ‘break free’ was by relocating. Putting physical distance between myself and my family helped. I started therapy to understand why I let guilt control me for so long. That is how I view ‘black tax’: it made me feel bad for saying no. It’s not like my siblings can’t take care of themselves; they have jobs. “I may not contribute financially anymore, but I do help my niece and nephew with their school work. I’ve made them beneficiaries on my policies because I choose to invest in their long-term success: something my parents and grandparents couldn’t do for us because they didn’t have the means to.” *Names have been changed

Use our free online budget tools to help manage any familial responsibilities you may have. Talk to a financial planner, who will be able to help you take out savings or policies for your loved ones, or make them beneficiaries of your own policies. Visit www.sanlamreality.co.za/contact-an-adviser.

SPRING 2019/SUMMER 2020 REALITY

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travel

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to travel better

Over half of global travellers are more committed to making sustainable travel choices now than they were a year ago, according to a Booking.com report. The obstacle? More than a third of those surveyed admitted not knowing how to make these choices. Turn over for a guide.

YOUR

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SPRING 2019/SUMMER 2020 REALITY

travel

Tips to travel and work

6 Steps to better travel

SUPPORT LOCAL Products made using locally sourced materials typically carry fewer CO2 emissions than international imports. When you’re travelling, eat at local spots instead of global chains; shop at local markets and ask vendors where products have come from.

TRAVEL SLOWLY Take fewer trips and linger longer at destinations. Not only will you reduce the negative impact of air travel on the planet, you’ll also get to soak up more of your destination. Planning a local trip? See if you can carpool, or book a long-distance bus trip to lower your carbon footprint.

DON’T FUND UNETHICAL ACTIVITIES Riding an elephant in Thailand may be what everyone seems to do, but think twice before following suit. Wildlife biologist Dr Stephanie Schuttler suggests avoiding places where you can touch and feed wild animals. Rather support organisations that give animals their space. Opt for reserves, rescue centres and shelters rather than places where the creatures have been captured and placed into captivity. Ask questions if you’re not sure and do your research beforehand to be aware of known red flags.

VOLUNTEER Consider sharing your skills as part of your travel plans. Volunteer World (www.volunteerworld.com/en) offers more than 100 volunteer projects at a host of countries worldwide, allowing you to have a fulfilling experience that also gives back.

USE YOUR BENEFIT

REALITY SPRING 2019/SUMMER 2020

BE MINDFUL OF THE LOCAL LANDSCAPE If you’re travelling somewhere with limited refuse and disposal facilities, for example, take only biodegradable toiletry and sanitary products. If you’re swimming in protected waters, wear eco-friendly sunscreen. It’s your responsibility to leave as little a mark on the environment as possible.

LOOK OUT FOR GREEN CERTIFICATIONS Making sustainable choices starts with being informed. There are various certifications that hotels can be awarded to show they follow eco-friendly practices, including Green Globe, Tripadvisor GreenLeaders and EarthCheck.

Wish your office view was ever-changing? The rise of ‘digital nomads’ – people for whom travel and work are often the same thing – means it can. Start with these tips. GET YOUR HEAD IN THE CLOUD

Cloud storage helps you work remotely with real-time data. Consider storing documents via Cloud-hosted platforms such as Google Drive, One Drive, Dropbox and Microsoft Teams.

HAVE WI-FI ON HAND A portable Wi-Fi router can be loaded with an international or local SIM (local often offers better data costs) and linked up to a number of devices.

FIND A HOT DESK Find a shared office space or hot desk around the world via Coworker.com. From a hot desk with internet, phone and printing facilities to a quiet spot for a video call, co-working spaces can solve a host of practical challenges.

STAY SAFE Connecting to Wi-Fi hotspots in hotels, hostels, malls and the like can be unsafe. Get a Virtual Private Network (VPN) set up on your laptop to secure your connection. Try providers like ExpressVPN, NordVPN and VyperVPN.

Ask your Personal Assistant for help booking with ethical or eco-friendly tour operators or suppliers. Message your PA for free in the Sanlam Reality App, call 0860 732 548/9 or visit www.sanlamreality.co.za/benefit/personal-assistant.

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Top 10 tracks for the

road

ACCORDING TO TIME OUT’S 50 BEST ROAD TRIP SONGS OF ALL TIME, THESE ARE THE TOP 10 TO BELT OUT WHILE YOU SIT BEHIND THE WHEEL THIS SUMMER.

1 BORN TO RUN

Bruce Springsteen

LITTLE RED CORVETTE Prince

GET THE RIGHT COVER

USE YOUR BENEFITS

Text: Dominique Bowen; Photography: Shutterstock, supplied

Canadian couple Nick and Dariece (www.goatsontheroad.com) left their full-time jobs, home and vehicle to explore the world and blog about it. They suggest signing up for health insurance tailored to a nomadic lifestyle.

HERE I GO AGAIN Whitesnake

PACK WHAT YOU NEED TO WORK ANYWHERE Jodi Ettenberg (www.legalnomads.com) left the legal profession to travel and tell stories through food, creating food-centric content as she explores new places. For comfort on the go, she relies on a laptop stand. “I have problems with chronic pain, so this was essential – and an amazing change in my work routine. I use it every day and it’s so small it adds almost no weight or bulk to my bag,” she says. Look for a foldable, portable one with built-in fans to prevent your laptop from overheating. www.sanlamreality.co.za

Where The Streets Have No Name - U2

Keep the Car Running - Arcade Fire

Sweet Home Alabama - Lynyrd Skynyrd

Truckin’ - Grateful Dead

8 9 10

Stream tunes at no cost (first six months) on simfy africa. Visit www.sanlamreality. co.za/benefit/simfy/ to find out more.

Road to Nowhere - Talking Heads Graceland - Paul Simon Take It Easy - The Eagles

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travel

! o d d n a get up Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just sit by the pool â&#x20AC;&#x201C;

Want more from a holiday than lazy days? These six immersive, cultural experiences around the world are a great start. By Lynette Botha

If you want to reboot your creativity… GO TO If spirituality fascinates you… TRACE SOME OF ITS ROOTS IN

HONG KONG

WHY? The vibrant, eclectic south-eastern Chinese city may be a business hub, but olden-day traditions and culture remain central, making it a fascinating place to explore. Try a day tour to learn how feng shui has shaped the modern-day city; you’ll begin to see the spiritual in everything. THE REAL DEAL: Exploring the Po Lin Monastary on Lantau Island is a must. You’ll experience the majestic Grand Hall of Ten Thousand Buddhas, the Big Buddha (34 metres high and one of the top 10 engineering feats in Hong Kong’s history) and the sacred surrounds. www.plm.org.hk WHAT ELSE? Even though it’s a bustling city, extend your search of the spiritual to a host of nature activities. There are many easy to moderate hiking trails and deserted beaches; and hopping aboard a boat for dolphin spotting is highly recommended. Keep your eyes peeled for Hong Kong’s famous pink dolphins! WHEN? Spring in Hong Kong is delightful (March to May): the weather is great, the trees are in bloom and spirits are high. GETTING THERE: Emirates flights from Jo’burg to Hong Kong cost around R11 000.

SAVE 25% ON FLIGHTS!

IRELAND

FOR AN ARTIST’S RETREAT WHY? Home of literary greats, including Oscar Wilde, James Joyce, William Yeats and more, Ireland is also the birthplace of musical giants like Van Morrison and Bono. Head to Galway, a harbour city that plays host to the famous Galway International Arts Festival, now in its 31st year. Expect a showcase of musos as diverse as Macy Gray and Two Door Cinema Club. There are also various talks, theatre productions and visual-arts showcases during the two-week festival, which takes place in mid-July. THE REAL DEAL: Anam Cara Writer’s & Artist’s Retreat offers you the chance to stay in residence with writer and editor Sue Booth-Forbes, who started her career at Cambridge City Press. Whether you want to rework your novel, workshop ideas with Sue and other guests, or begin on any other creative projects, the daily schedule and tranquil environment are designed to awaken your creativity. Rates vary depending on length of stay, but at least a week is recommended. www.anamcararetreat.com WHAT ELSE? Wander Galway’s medieval streets with their vibey energy and friendly locals, visit the many museums and galleries, and take in the lakes and mountains of Connemara. Enjoy fine Irish grub, and a few pints down at the pub, for a very merry holiday. WHEN? Go in July to coincide with the festival and warmer weather. GETTING THERE: Emirates flights from Jo’burg to Dublin start at R15 000.

Reality Plus and Reality Health members enjoy up to 25% off Emirates flights. Visit www.sanlamreality.co.za/benefit/emirates for more.

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travel

If you love to taste new things… LEARN TO COOK LIKE A LOCAL ON

If you want to see things from someone else’s point of view… STAY WITH A BALINESE FAMILY IN

INDONESIA

WHY? Indonesia is a dream destination, especially for families. The climate is idyllic, the people are friendly and helpful, and the exchange rate is in our favour. There are many types of cultural tours to choose from, but why not kick off your trip in Bali in the quaint fishing village of Jimbaran, for calm waters ideal for swimming, excellent seafood dining and water-based activities? Spend a further three days exploring the island’s cultural heart of Ubud – think temples, monkeys, markets, cycle trips and more. From there, enjoy a speedboat ride to the neighbouring island of Lombok to round off your trip with diving and snorkelling, complete with a day sailing around the Gili Islands. THE REAL DEAL: Live like a local and stay with a Balinese family during your trip. From helping with coconut harvesting on a small family farm to learning

how to make authentic Indonesian food and getting the real ‘insider’s guide’ to Bali, this is a great way to immerse yourself in the culture. Around R2 500/person for three nights, with meals included. Book via www.duaratravels.com. WHAT ELSE? There is so much to do in this part of the world! You can swim with sea turtles, track Komodo dragons, hike volcanoes and harvest the rice paddies. WHEN? Between May and September the climate is hot and dry. If you don’t mind epic downpours (which last a few hours), the wet season is more affordable and a little more bearable (heat wise). GETTING THERE: Emirates flights from Jo’burg to Denpasar cost around R14 000.

REALITY SPRING 2019/SUMMER 2020

WHY? Outdoor enthusiasts will love the rugged landscape and plethora of activities on offer in Réunion. Located off the coast of Africa, near Madagascar, Réunion Island is home to one of the most active volcanoes in the world (which you can hike), coral reefs teeming with sea life (including sharks!), dramatic rain forests and beautiful beaches. Self-drive itineraries are the most popular, with the assistance of tour guides along the way. From zip-lining and helicopter flips to volcano scaling, river rafting and canyon sliding, there’s little time to sit still. THE REAL DEAL: Take a break from all the adventuring and spend a day learning how to prepare local Creole cuisine – from the marketplace to the kitchen, a local chef will guide you through it all. Discover how to make fritters, samosas, curries, dessert and fresh local fruit juices – and then get to eat it! A full-day course costs about R650. Book via en.reunion.fr. WHAT ELSE? Thanks to the French-CreoleAfrican influence, the culinary offering is varied and delicious, so if you skip the cooking course, hit the food markets – the best way to sample a bit of everything. WHEN? With a moderate climate that rarely drops below 23°C, any time is a good time. That said, for adventure enthusiasts, avoid the rainy season (January to February) to ensure that you can make the most of outdoor time. GETTING THERE: Expect flights from Jo’burg to Saint-Denis to start at R8 000. www.sanlamreality.co.za

Prices correct at time of print; Photography: Shutterstock, supplied

RÉUNION ISLAND

If ancient history is your thing… GO DIG UP SOME RUINS IN

ISRAEL

WHY? Israel is a melting pot of religions, including Christianity, Judaism and Islam, and a spiritually- and culturally-rich destination. Whether solo, as a couple or with family, retracing history in its old cities is magical. The country also has a thriving festival scene and numerous diverse markets, making it exciting to explore. Discover museums, galleries and places of worship; let your hair down (and pants stretch) in Tel Aviv, where the food scene is epic, the city streets energetic and the Bauhaus architecture delightful for design lovers. THE REAL DEAL: For something a little out of the ordinary, why not get digging? Participate in an actual excavation of underground caves from the time of the Maccabees at Beit

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Guvrin-Maresha National Park in central Israel. Start with the digging and excavation, then tour through the caves of the ancient subterranean city of Maresha. The activity lasts three hours and costs about R450, excluding park entrance fees. Book via www.funinjerusalem.com. WHAT ELSE? Head to the therapeutic Dead Sea; a leisurely two-and-a-halfhour drive from Tel Aviv makes it more than doable with the family in tow. WHEN? The ‘in-between’ months are the best time to visit Israel, when the temperature is milder (April, May, September and October). GETTING THERE: Pay from R9 000 to fly from Jo’burg to Tel Aviv.

If you need some grounding… TRAVEL TO A

TRANSKEI HOMESTAY

WHY? It’s known as the Wild Coast for a reason, because the Transkei, incorporating towns like Coffee Bay, Port St. Johns and Mthatha, is rugged and largely untouched. With cows strolling on beaches and little to no cell signal in most parts, the Transkei is a place you visit to disconnect from the world for a while. THE REAL DEAL: Experience the traditional Xhosa way of life with a homestay in Bulungula, a rural village in the heart of the Transkei. To keep the experience as authentic as possible, there are no prearranged activities: you literally join a family for a few days, fitting in with their schedule to learn about their way of life. Enquire about rates and book via www.wildcoastholiday.co.za. WHAT ELSE? The Transkei offers various activities in close proximity to each other: enjoy horse riding, canoeing, fishing, birdwatching, or visiting a traditional herbalist. Sip on a local beer at a shebeen, and catch some rays or waves on one of the many pristine beaches. WHEN? Visit in spring or summer to make the most of the glorious weather, and maximise time for outdoor activities.

Driving to the Transkei? You pay from as little as R230/day with Tempest Car Hire. Visit www.sanlamreality.co.za/benefit/ tempest-car-hire for more.

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travel

Magic, mystery & majesty:

welcome to Hogsback Discover the breathtaking beauty of this Eastern Cape village. By Edwain Steenkamp

here are few places in South Africa that can stir the imagination quite like Hogsback, a small village in the Eastern Cape’s Amathole Mountains. The village was named after the shape of three ridged peaks to the east, but the area has had several names throughout history, including Qabimbola – isiXhosa for ‘red clay on the face’. Surrounded by forests, waterfalls and a regular veil of thick mist, the village has an array of exciting outdoor activities. The walking trails are among the most beautiful in the country, with lush forests, waterfalls, ancient boulders and wildlife being common features along the way. You can also enjoy biking and cycling trails, rock-climbing routes, horseback riding through the forest, abseiling, wildlife watching (this region is famous for its rich biodiversity) and fishing. It’s everything you could ever want in the outdoors. During the winter months, when heavy rains and mist dominate the landscape (with some mountains even sporting snow caps), there remains much to do, from visiting quaint galleries to charming restaurants and bars. You’ll find a calm and relaxing atmosphere with magnificent views, free from the stresses of city life. It’s no wonder it captured the minds of writers like F.C. Slater, Carolyn Parker and John Dover Wilson, who all celebrated Hogsback in their respective works.

Photography: Shutterstock, supplied

NEED TO KNOW Situated: On the R345, just under 90km from King William’s Town. Best time of the year: All year round. The winter months between May and August are beautiful, with rain and mist transforming Look out for the landscape into a The endangered magical setting. Expect Amatola toad, temperatures as low as samangos, 4°C – ideal for a cosy winter blue duiker and sojourn. The warmer towering yellowwoods. months (November to February) are ideal for outdoor activities, with temperatures reaching 35°C. Good to know: The closest hospital is 40km away in Keiskammahoek. Costs: Accommodation prices range from about R650-R1 000/person per night. There are also many cheaper backpacker options, allowing for almost every budget. OPPOSITE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: A regular veil of thick mist brings a magical feel to the forest; Numerous waterfalls add tranquillity to your meander; Snow-capped mountains aren’t an uncommon sight; Walk in contemplation through the iconic labyrinth at The Edge Mountain Retreat.

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On the checklist Art

Voice of the Earth Eco Shrine is an awardwinning outdoor shrine and garden, constructed by critically acclaimed artist Diana Graham in 1995. Today it is one of the most visited attractions in Hogsback, and Graham houses her studio right next door. www.ecoshrine.co.za

Food

Butterfly’s Bistro offers unparalleled views as you enjoy a light lunch or a sweet treat, making this one of the favourite hang-outs in the area. 045 962 1326

Places to stay

Hogsback Inn is one of the most famous spots to rest your head here. This charming inn, nestled among trees, was the first in the area when it opened over 140 years ago. Rooms start from R1 000/night which includes breakfast and use of all amenities. www.hogsbackinn.com

Gardens

For something unique, enjoy contemplation in the labyrinth at The Edge Mountain Retreat (045 962 1159). Or visit Applegarth Gardens and Nursery for lush gardens and birdlife, open to the public by appointment only (079 496 3076). They also offer self-catering accommodation options from R2 000/night for two. www.applegarth-bredon.co.za

Outdoors

For an easy, familyfriendly walk, do the Kettlespout Waterfall trail. Starting at the arboretum in the heart of the village, a path will take you all the way to Kettlespout Waterfall, one of the most mystical and beloved places in the area. If you’re keen on something more taxing, try the Big Tree hike. It’ll take up to five hours from the Main Road, but leads you through a forest teeming with birdlife to an 800-year-old yellowwood. www.hogsback.co.za/activities/ walks_hikes.htm If you want a dedicated birding experience, contact Graham Russell (082 374 6583) for a guided birding walk through the indigenous forest to spot over 150 bird species.

For the kids

On Main Road, the Camelot Fairy Meander promises a magical, fairy-themed walk that will delight the whole family. Inspired by Middle-earth from The Lord of the Rings – as J.R.R. Tolkien is rumoured to have drawn on Hogsback for his novels – the garden oozes with charm and character. Alternatively, book horse riding, archery or abseiling to entertain the kids. www.hogsback.co.za/activities/ hogsback_adventures.htm

Hike the Amatola Trail

This six-day hike is one of the most beautiful in South Africa – and also one of the toughest! Starting at Maden Dam and ending in Hogsback, you’ll traverse through lush forests and scale peaks for staggering views. Accommodation is in basic huts or tents, and ascents range from 600m-1km per day. Expect to pay around R1 540/person for the six-day option, with the option for the assistance service to drop off a pre-packed bag on day two (R1 500) and day five (R350). You need a minimum of three hikers. www.amatolatrails.co.za

SPRING 2019/SUMMER 2020 REALITY

travel

See the Land of the Rising Sun Visiting Japan is expensive at the best of times – but, as it plays host to the Rugby World Cup this year and the Olympic Games next year, prices will likely rise. It’s why Kabir Jardine suggests you beat the heat (and avoid burning a hole in your pocket) by planning your trip during its winter months. Here’s how.

ABOVE: On your way to Hiroshima, take a pause to visit the striking Himeji-jo castle in Himeji.

) ! y l b a d r o f f (a

t’s no secret: Japan isn’t a cheap place to holiday. There are two ways to help make this dream trip affordable, though: go during their winter, where in the south you’ll still enjoy sun and above-zero temperatures, while in the north you’ll encounter dazzling snow. Another idea: while tourists typically embark on the ‘Golden Week’, starting in Tokyo and ending in Hiroshima, why not try this famous route in reverse? You’ll miss the crowds, but stay on-track to see all of the unmissable things Japan has to offer in 10 days. Hajime: let’s begin!

DAY 1 THE CITY:

OSAKA

THE VIBE: Neon lights and delicious food. GETTING THERE: Having landed, take a train to Shin-Osaka Station. To get from Osaka to Himeji, take the Nozomi on the TokaidoSanyo Shinkansen line for ¥3 750 (around R480). THE LOW-DOWN: Osaka promises good food, a busy nightlife and an array of modern architecture and dazzling neon lights. Based on the main island of Honshu and around 20 minutes from Kyoto via the Shinkansen (bullet train), Osaka is a central spot from which to explore the rest of Japan. Experience the bustle of city living and thrum of street-food vendors by exploring on foot; takoyaki, a type of squid ball, and okonomiyaki, a sensational savoury pancake, are the main culinary stars to sample from street vendors. Stop to take in the serenity of the various Shinto shrines that dot the city. Stroll through a magical Buddhist garden, Honbo--teien, for R40 or do the famous ‘running man’ pose in front of the Glico Man in Dotonbori. www.sanlamreality.co.za

Got kids? Universal Studios is in the area and ideal for entertaining the whole family (around R996/adult and R666/child; www.usj.co.jp/e/). STAY AT: Hotel Hare Shin-Osaka (www.hotelhare. jp/shinosaka/en/); from R2 290 per room – perfect for families! It’s a bit far from the airport, but closer to Shin-Osaka, the Shinkansen station that’ll take you to Himeji and Hiroshima.

DAY 2-3 THE CITY:

HIMEJI AND HIROSHIMA

THE VIBE: Breathtaking views and history. GETTING THERE: Take the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen line from Himeji to Hiroshima for ¥8 090 (around R1 000). THE LOW-DOWN: The best part about your next destination is that the fun starts before you even get there. The Shinkansen is a journey in itself, with bento boxes (like takeaway lunch boxes filled with traditional foods) to be bought at the stations, and beautiful scenery that passes you by at over 300km/h. Before you reach Hiroshima via the Shinkansen, stop off at Himeji – home to one of Japan’s most striking castles: Himeji-jo.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: The iconic Glico Man in Dotonbori; visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park; look out for the Itsukushima Shrine; meander through Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Hop back onto the train to get to Hiroshima. Explore ground zero of the 1945 atomic bomb, where there is now a memorial park and museum (R26/person). The city itself has a unique appeal, with gardens, museums and art galleries to explore. Miyajima Island is a ferry ride away – covered by the Japan Rail (JR) pass – and worth the trip to see its idyllic Itsukushima Shrine and the glistening orange Torii gate on the banks of the island. STAY AT: 88 House Hiroshima (www.88hiroshima. com), with rooms from R1 047/ night; just 5-6km from Hiroshima’s major attractions.

DAY 4-6 THE CITY:

KYOTO

THE VIBE: Old meets new.

Japan must-haves JAPAN RAILPASS (JR) This gives you access to several different railways for a set price. A seven-day, first-class ticket will cost you around R5 355, while second-class is around R4 010 (www.statravel. co.za/japan-rail). POWER BANK You’ll be on your phone a lot, so extra battery life is a must. SIM OR PORTABLE MODEM There aren’t many free Wi-Fi hotspots, so a modem or SIM card will help you stay connected. CASH, CASH, CASH Japan is still a cash-first country, so keep some on hand throughout your trip. GOOGLE TRANSLATE You’ll find the locals are friendly, and will respect the effort you go to communicate with them.

SPRING 2019/SUMMER 2020 REALITY

travel

GETTING THERE: Take the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen line from Himeji to Kyoto for ¥11 210 (around R1 440). It’s about a two-hour journey to Kyoto from Hiroshima. THE LOW-DOWN: Kyoto is nestled between Nara and

Tight budget?

EAT AT A CONVENIENCE STORE OR STREETFOOD STALL Convenience stores or konbinis are treasure troves of tasty, affordable food. The level of quality in Japan is high and expands across many different fields. Street food makes a safe, cheap alternative to restaurants. Quality food can go for as little as ¥200-¥500 (around R27-R66). TEMPLE-HOP Fees to get into temples are cheap, with the majority of them being free or a nominal fee of ¥500-¥800 (approximately R60-R100).

Osaka and is the cultural heartbeat of Japan. Once its actual capital, Kyoto’s streets teem with riches from Japan’s past, interestingly woven into more modern architecture and a buzzing city scape. This fascinating mixture of old and new offers more than 1 600 temples and shrines to explore in the city, and a world-renowned food scene. For a day of templehopping, stick to the vast bus network to keep it affordable. Visit Kinkaku-ji to see its glistening gold façade; then head out of the city to Fushimi-Inari and the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. While the majority of the tourist attractions are in the city centre, the shrines and restaurants on the city’s outskirts reveal Kyoto’s hidden gems. STAY AT: Gion Ryokan Q-beh (www.q-beh.com), a cosy, budget ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) with rooms from R1 123/night, and family rooms from R2 608/night.

DAY 7 THE CITY:

NARA

THE VIBE: Urban jungle. GETTING THERE: Take the

STROLL THROUGH GARDENS AND PARKS From magical moss gardens to serene Buddhist parks, these entry fees are usually nominal. STAY IN TRADITIONAL ABODES Traditional hostels and ryokan (Japanese inns) are usually less expensive than hotels. They often come with a complimentary meal and an onsen (hot spring or bathing facility), creating a more authentic experience.

REALITY SPRING 2019/SUMMER 2020

Tip!

Booking accommodation in Japan can be a challenge since many websites function primarily in Japanese. Try searching for the same accommodation on English websites like TripAdvisor to make bookings.

JR Nara line from Kyoto to Nara for ¥710 (around R90) or one of the Kintetsu lines from ¥620+ (around R80). THE LOW-DOWN: Once Japan’s capital centuries ago, Nara is a lush town with a sprawling park as a city centre, blurring the lines between city and nature. This vast area is also the main attraction in Nara, as the winding, leafy passages lead to various Shinto shrines, Buddhist temples and streetfood stalls. Dotted almost everywhere are sika deer that bow to you in appreciation before feeding them. Nara is a great respite amid your whirlwind trip. Everything around Nara is

within walking distance from the park. Spend the day exploring the park, but the huge eighth century Buddha at the Todai-ji temple should be your main destination (R80). Be sure to also visit possibly the cutest tea house in the world: Mizuya Chaya (www.mizuyachaya.com). STAY AT: From R2 400/night, Nara Hotel (www.narahotel. co.jp) is inside the city centre’s park, making it a great base.

DAY 8 THE CITY:

HAKONE THE VIBE: Relax and refresh. GETTING THERE: Take the Nara line to Kyoto, then take the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen line to Atami for ¥12 200 (around R1 600). From Atami, take the Tokaido Line to Odawara, and then the Hakone Tozan line to Hakone-Yumoto for ¥310 (around R40). THE LOW-DOWN: After all of the exploring of ancient temples, strolling through picturesque gardens and absorbing the feeling of LEFT: Sika deer are a common sight in Nara, and will bow to you in appreciation before you feed them.

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5 Essential transport tips

Prices correct at time of print; Photography: Shutterstock

SAVE UP TO 25% WITH EMIRATES Flying to Japan will be expensive during the Olympics (July-August) and cherry blossom season (March-April), but since you’re travelling in winter, flight fares will be lower. Reality Plus and Reality Health members enjoy up to 25% off Emirates flights.

Japan’s incredible cities, you deserve a spa day. But how about a whole spa town, all the way up the slopes of beautiful Mt Hakone, reached by a breathtaking train ride? Hakone is renowned for its hot springs, which feed several resorts, all built around individual springs called onsen. Since Hakone is a town spread out across several locations connected by bus, a cableway and – yes – a pirate ship, spending the day going through the entire Hakone circuit (two-day circuit ticket from R599) is a must. Visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum (R208) on the town’s edge for a surreal experience of outdoor sculptures and contemporary art. It’s also home to the biggest collection of Pablo Picasso’s art. STAY AT: Staying at a ryokan with a private onsen is a treat, especially for families. Check out Mikawaya Ryokan (www. hakone-mikawaya.com), with rooms and private onsen from R2 500.

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ABOVE LEFT: Hop on a ferry for a relaxing trip to Miyajima Island. ABOVE: Take in the bustling city life in iconic Tokyo.

DAY 9-10 THE CITY:

TOKYO

THE VIBE: Bustling city. GETTING THERE: From Gora, take the Hakone Tozan Line to Odawara. From Odawara, take the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen to Tokyo; all for ¥3 890 (around R500). THE LOW-DOWN: Tokyo is a bustling, beautiful city with plenty to see and eat. Spend your time here meandering through its diverse neighbourhoods: experience out-there fashion in Harajuku; explore the cosmopolitan shopping hub of Shinjuku; or visit a high-rise arcade in Akihabara. Travel outside of Tokyo and head towards the Ghibli Museum (www.ghibli-museum. jp) in Mitaka’s Inokashira Park – a fascinating dedication to

USE GOOGLE MAPS The Japanese railway system can be confusing, but Google Maps informs you of arrival and departure times and translates the majority of station names for you. TRY A PASMO For non-JR train lines, Pasmo (www.pasmo.co.jp) is a rechargeable credit card ticket (for buses too!) to save you from constantly buying tickets. LOOK FOR JR LINES Always look for alternate JR line routes to your destination. If you have a JR pass, use it to its full advantage to avoid doubling up on expenses. CONSIDER A CITY PASS Several cities in Japan have these, offering a hugely discounted rate on transport. Try the Kyoto Two-Day City Pass (www.discoverkyoto.com/visitors-guide/day-pass-ticket/) or the Osaka one (www.osaka-info.jp/en/page/osaka-city-pass).

Japanese cinema (R131/adult; blending Japan’s old-world R12-R89/child). There’s also charm with modern the Mori Digital Art Museum aesthetics in a resoundingly (borderless.teamlab.art) for successful way. It’s about a mind-blowing show of 32km from Haneda Airport, interactive art (tickets: your point of departure. R416/adult and R378/child for daytime tickets; R378/ adult and R130/child for night-time tickets). STAY AT: Wired Hotel Catch a flight from Cape Town (www.wiredhotel.com) or Jo’burg to Osaka, and from R2 618/night: it’s returning from Tokyo, from central and scenic, R13 000 in December with Emirates.

Flying there

Reality Plus and Reality Health members get up to 25% off Emirates flights, making your dream trip to Japan even more possible! Visit www.sanlamreality.co.za/benefit/emirates for more.

SPRING 2019/SUMMER 2020 REALITY

More holiday fun, less spend

R50 R30 R35

3D movie ticket

2D movie ticket

Medium popcorn + beverage

Use in your Sanlam Reality App

Visit www.sanlamreality.co.za/benefit/nu-metro-movies. T&Cs apply.

entertainment e l z z Pituout For many people, the go-to cure for stress involves spending time on mindless distractions like vegging out in front of the TV. But a UCLA study has revealed that brain-sharpening activities can actually be more helpful, lowering the chance of being side-tracked and therefore getting a better grasp on stress-inducing thoughts. Feeling overwhelmed? Try your hand at this maze.

YOUR

Pay R30 for a 2D movie ticket (R50 for 3D) and R35 for a refreshment combo at Nu Metro

e n tertain me n t BENEFITS

Buy one ticket, get one free up to R300 on Computicket (Reality Plus & Reality Health)

Six monthsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; free music streaming from simfy africa

1GB free data every month with AlwaysOn (Reality Health & Reality Plus)

Go to www.sanlamreality.co.za/benefits/entertainment to view your specific benefits, tier status and discount percentage. www.sanlamreality.co.za

SPRING 2019/SUMMER 2020 REALITY

entertainment

Screen time

HOLIDAYS ARE FOR RELAXING – WHAT BETTER WAY TO DO THAT THAN BY TAKING IN THE BEST OF THIS SUMMER’S BLOCKBUSTERS? 1 / CITY OF LIES Based on the book LAbyrinth by Randall Sullivan, this biopic follows the story of journalist Jack Jackson (Forrest Whitaker) who teams up with LAPD detective Russell Poole (Johnny Depp) to crack the unsolved murder of The Notorious B.I.G. Release date: 1 November 2 / FROZEN II Anna joins her sister, Queen Elsa, on a journey out of Arendelle to find the source of Elsa’s special powers. Kristoff, Olaf and Sven tag along for the adventure, too. This highly anticipated sequel is sure to keep the kids entertained! Release date: 6 December

3 / JUMANJI: THE NEXT LEVEL Following 2017’s Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle, the story picks up with Spencer disappearing back into Jumanji using pieces of the video game he secretly kept to himself. Expect twists and turns as he finds himself in need of rescue… Release date: 12 December

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4 / STAR WARS: THE RISE OF SKYWALKER In the ninth chapter of this cult sci-fi franchise, get ready to meet a brand-new villain in the form of Sith Trooper. Rey, Finn and Poe Dameron’s journey continues as they tackle the First Order, empowered by the knowledge of past generations. Broadcast: 20 December 5 / THE VOYAGE OF DR. DOLITTLE Robert Downey Jr. transforms into Dr. Dolittle, the famous doctor who shuns human patients for creature ones, possessing the magical gift of being able to communicate with animals. Backed by an all-star cast including John Cena, Selena Gomez, Rami Malek and Octavia Spencer, this entertaining and charming fantasy will delight. Release date: 10 January

Enjoy movie tickets at Nu Metro for just R30 (2D) or R50 (3D; Reality Health and Plus members), and refreshment combos for R35. Book now in the free Sanlam Reality App or visit www.sanlamreality.co.za/benefit/nu-metro-movies.

Small screen, big TV IS ENTERTAINING – BUT IT’S ALSO PART OF WHAT SHAPES OUR WORLD. HERE ARE FIVE SHOWS THAT BROKE BARRIERS.

REALITY SPRING 2019/SUMMER 2020

impact

1 SURVIVOR

Could you imagine a world without shows like Idol, MasterChef or The Bachelor? Well, we have Survivor to thank for that. The outwit, outplay, outlast challenge show revolutionised TV 20 years ago when it became the first highly rated, profitable reality show in America, according to Nielsen. Thanks to its lead, reality TV game shows have become de rigueur.

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Why do we say ‘ break a leg’ in theatre?

CURTAIN UP!

Get set for a fun-filled summer (without paying full price, thanks to your Sanlam Reality benefits!).

A common superstition among thespians is that wishing good luck will bring just the opposite. So, by wishing someone ‘breaks a leg’, you hope the opposite will occur.

Research: Dominique Bowen Photography: Shutterstock, supplied

JO’BURG: A CHRISTMAS CAROL Follow Ebenezer Scrooge – who hates Christmas – as the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future visit him, transforming his pessimism into positivity. If you love a traditional festive celebration, then this adaption of Charles Dickens’ novel is a must-see. When: 5 December 20195 January 2020 Where: Upstairs Studio Theatre, Montecasino

CAPE TOWN & JO’BURG: PETER PAN ON ICE Be dazzled as the Imperial Ice Stars – 24 medal-winning skaters from across the globe – jump and glide through the story of the boy who never grew up. You’ll be entranced just as much as the kids will be. When: 6 December 201911 January 2020, 15 January2 February 2020 Where: Montecasino (Jo’burg), Artscape (Cape Town)

2 GAME OF THRONES

Costing $15-million (around R209-million) per episode to produce in its final season, Game of Thrones became one of the most expensive TV series to date. The investment paid off: the fantasy series won 59 Primetime Emmy Awards, taking the record for the most Emmys awarded to a scripted TV series (previously held by ’90s sitcom Frasier). Created by HBO, the scale of production

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USE YOUR BENEFIT

Overberg, be sure not to miss out. When: 7 December Where: Caledon Casino, Hotel & Spa CALEDON, WESTERN CAPE: CRAIG LUCAS Elsies River resident and The Voice SA Season 2 winner Craig Lucas is set to wow with his chart-topping hits, including ‘Smother’, ‘Anti-sociable’ and ‘Hearts Exposed’. Since it’s a once-off show in the

ULUNDI, KZN: MUSIC FUN FIESTA PICNIC This family-friendly event promises a day of snacking, socialising and grooving to the hottest beats from local DJs. A chilled way to spend Boxing Day. When: 26 December Where: Ulundi Stadium

has ushered in a new era of on-demand TV series, whose budgets (and casts) now rival those of blockbuster movies.

more than 5-million viewers each week, and marked an important milestone for the LGBTQIA+ community.

YIZO YIZO

One of our most iconic TV series, SABC’s Yizo Yizo broke important ground in 2004 when it became the first nationally broadcasted, prime-time series to show two young black men kissing. At the time, it was attracting

THE FLINTSTONES

The world had never seen an animated comedy air during prime time until The Flintstones debuted in 1960. It went off air a few years later, but paved the way for ‘adult animation’ to become mainstream, leading to the

Reality Health and Reality Plus members can buy one ticket, get one free (up to R300) on Computicket. Visit www.sanlamreality. co.za/benefit/ computicket or call 0860 732 548/9 to make your discounted booking.

likes of The Simpsons, Family Guy and Futurama.

5 ISIDINGO

One of Mzansi’s favourite soapies was also the first local series to show an interracial kiss and interracial marriage, between characters Derek Nyathi (Hlomla Dandala) and Philippa de Villiers (Bianca Amato) in 2001.

SPRING 2019/SUMMER 2020 REALITY

entertainment

RED-PEPPER GAZPACHO WITH ALMOND-BASIL PESTO

k o o c No

meals youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll love! What better way to say hello to summer than with delicious ideas that are super-easy to create? Styling & recipes: Katelyn Allegra; Photos: Kirsten Mackrill

Red-pepper gazpacho with almond-basil pesto

Lime and chilli veggie rainbow rolls with spicy peanut sauce

Serves: 4-6 | Prep time: 15 min

½ English cucumber, peeled and deseeded 1kg red bell peppers, stemmed and deseeded 1kg very ripe red tomatoes, cut into wedges; 3 tbsp seeds reserved 2 baby leeks, chopped 1 garlic clove, finely grated 30ml (or more) red wine vinegar 30ml (2 tbsp) olive oil, plus more for drizzling 15ml (1 tbsp) salt 30ml (2 tbsp) smoked paprika 45ml (3 tbsp) green Tabasco, to taste Sea salt and cracked black pepper, to taste Basil-almond pesto: 50g (½ cup) almonds, toasted 100g Parmesan, grated 1 clove garlic, finely grated

60g (6 cups) basil leaves 180ml (¾ cup) extra-virgin olive oil 5ml (1 tsp) salt

Serves: 4 Prep time: 30 min

Rainbow rolls: 10 large rice-paper sheets 2-3 large carrots, peeled and cut into matchsticks 1 yellow sweet pepper, julienne 2 beetroots, thinly sliced 250g fine green beans, topped and tailed Coriander leaves, to garnish 1 lime, zested and cut into wedges 2 bird’s eye chillis, seeded and finely sliced

Roughly chop the cucumber, peppers, tomatoes, leeks and garlic. Combine all the ingredients. Stir in the red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, paprika, Tabasco and seasoning. Leave for about 30 minutes. Place the mixture into a food processor and blend until smooth. Season well and strain through a sieve. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Meanwhile, combine pesto ingredients together in a food processor and blend until smooth. Season well. Divide the gazpacho among bowls or glasses and serve with the pesto.

Spicy peanut sauce: 120g (½ cup) smooth, sugar-free peanut butter 60ml (¼ cup) tamari or soy sauce 1 garlic clove, grated 1cm ginger, grated 1 bird’s eye chilli, deseeded and finely chopped 15ml (1 tbsp) sriracha or chipotle in adobo sauce ½ cup water, as needed

LIME AND CHILLI VEGGIE RAINBOW ROLLS WITH SPICY PEANUT SAUCE

www.sanlamreality.co.za

For the spicy peanut sauce, place all the ingredients in the jug of a blender and process until completely smooth and combined. If the sauce is too thick, add about 2-3 tbsp water until you reach your desired dipping consistency. To make the rainbow rolls, fill a large bowl with enough water to cover the rice-paper sheets. As you go, place the rice paper in the water and leave for 2 minutes or until soft and pliable. Once ready, place the sheets on a clean surface and neatly arrange the vegetables in the middle of each sheet. Leave a 3cm border around the arranged vegetables. Fold the sides towards the centre and roll up. Cover with a clean, damp cloth until ready to serve. Serve the rolls with the dipping sauce and lime wedges.

SPRING 2019/SUMMER 2020 REALITY

entertainment

RUSTIC PICNIC LOAF

Rustic picnic loaf Serves: 4-6 Prep time: 40 min, plus 8 hours

Food stylistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s assistant: Cassandra Upton; creative direction: Marisa Steyn

1 large, round cottage loaf 100g basil pesto 60g fresh basil, picked 100g preserved peppers 200g hickory ham 200g salami 150g mozzarella, sliced into 3mm slices 100g Brie, sliced into 3mm slices Olive oil Sea salt and black pepper 200g artichokes in oil, halved lengthways

Cut the top off the cottage loaf and hollow out the centre, leaving the crust intact and sturdy. Spread a layer of basil pesto and scatter basil leaves over the base of the hollowed-out loaf. Follow this with layers of preserved pepper, ham, salami, mozzarella, and Brie, seasoning each layer with sea salt and black pepper. End with a layer of artichokes, more basil pesto and basil leaves. Press the filling down firmly. Repeat the process until all the ingredients are used up and the loaf is full. Cap with the top of the loaf and wrap securely in cling film. Sandwich the filled loaf between 2 trays and compress lightly with a few unopened food tins. Refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight. Slice the loaf into large, chunky wedges and serve.

SAVE WHEN YOU BUY GROCERIES!

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Salmon poke bowl with cauli-rice

Serves: 4 | Prep time: 20 min 2 cauliflower heads, grated to make cauli-rice 400g salmon fillets, cubed 4 radishes, finely sliced 3 Mediterranean cucumbers, roughly chopped 1 avocado, peeled and sliced 4 carrots, julienne 1 cup sprouts 2 sheets seaweed, torn into 4 strips

Ponzu dressing: 1 orange or grapefruit, juiced 30ml (2 tbsp) soy sauce 15ml (1 tbsp) rice-wine vinegar 30ml (2 tbsp) sesame oil 15ml (1 tbsp) honey Pinch of salt and pepper

Whisk the ponzu dressing ingredients together; season well and refrigerate. To serve, equally divide the cauli rice between 4 bowls. Top with cubed salmon, radish slices, cucumber, sliced avocado, sprouts and seaweed. Serve with a generous drizzle of dressing.

If you use the new Sanlam Money Saver credit card when you buy ingredients, you could add up to 5% of your spend to a dedicated savings account. Visit moneysaver.cards for more.

SPRING 2019/SUMMER 2020 REALITY

entertainment

child

PROBLEM

5 Minutes with comedian Loyiso Madinga

Since starting out in 2012, comedian Loyiso Madinga has fast found fame, cracking up audiences with his shows Born Free-ish and Problem Child, his feature on Netflix’s Comedians of the World and as the first international correspondent for Trevor Noah’s The Daily Show. Yet, despite his success, Madinga still has mortifying moments on stage, isn’t quite sure how you craft the perfect joke and doesn’t believe there’s such a thing as ‘making it’.

SIMPLE BEGINNINGS”

“I grew up in the Eastern Cape in a small town. After matric I moved to Jo’burg to study copywriting and ended up being a copywriter for five years before leaving to pursue comedy. I broke into the comedy industry through Donovan Goliath, who was also starting out at the time.”

I was so focused on making great content that I hadn’t taken in the gravity of what I was doing. “I was a comedian before The Daily Show, and I am one apart from it. In stand-up comedy, it’s all about your uniqueness. It’s about the work, not the names you’re associated with – that can only get you so far.”

on stage in front of 2 000 people I realised that it’s just part of the game. You have to keep coming back. That said, I don’t know if I’ll ever come back from roasting an audience member for not answering me, only to find out after the show that he and his partner were deaf! That was really mortifying.”

“THERE IS NO ‘MAKING IT’

“NO TWO AUDIENCES

“STAND-UP COMEDY IS

IN COMEDY”

ARE ALIKE”

ABOUT YOUR UNIQUENESS”

“I’ve come to realise there is no ‘making it’ in comedy. You just have to keep making. Once a joke is said, it’s gone and everybody’s waiting for the next one.”

“The script might seem similar to someone watching night after night, but comics will see the small adjustments that they make with each audience to reach the people on the night. No two audiences are alike. “I try not to be too rigid in my approach in terms of being very scripted. Working off the cuff really depends

“When I was asked to audition to be a correspondent for Trevor Noah’s The Daily Show, I had no real expectations. Then I got the call to say I’d got it, and I started to process the impact it might have on my career. By the time I was creating pieces for the American talk show,

“THERE ARE SOME MORTIFYING MOMENTS ON STAGE – BUT YOU HAVE TO KEEP ON COMING BACK”

“After my first time dying

USE YOUR BENEFIT

REALITY SPRING 2019/SUMMER 2020

on the crowd’s mood that night, and my mood.” “THERE’S NO FORMULA TO WRITING A GREAT JOKE”

“If I knew how I came up with jokes, this job would be so much easier! I just keep writing and performing; after enough time it seems to come together as a show. “I’m still new in this game and I’m figuring out how to define my comedic style. I’ll only have a real answer on what sums up my comedy when I retire!”

Loyiso Madinga is touring with his comedy show Problem Child and will be at East London’s Guild Theatre on 28 November (tickets from R130).

Reality Plus and Reality Health members can buy one ticket and get another free (up to R300) on Computicket. Book at www.sanlamreality.co.za/ benefit/computicket or call 0860 732 548/9.

www.sanlamreality.co.za

Photography: supplied

“I CAME FROM

IN FIVE LINES FROM: Eastern Cape TAG LINE: “Small in

stature, but not short on jokes.” LOVE MOST ABOUT SA:

“South African black Twitter is life-giving stuff.” LOCAL COMEDY IS UNIQUE BECAUSE:

“Apartheid did a very efficient job of separating people, to the point where, as a comedian, you spend a lot of your time teaching South Africans about other South Africans.” IF I WAS’T A COMEDIAN:

“I’d be an eyewitness.”

Start an adventure today

Hire a car from Tempest Car Hire and pay from as little as R230 a day. Plus get unlimited mileage and Super Cover!

Go to www.sanlamreality.co.za/benefit/tempest-car-hire or call 0860 732 548/9 for more information. T&Cs apply.

YOUR

real world

info guide TO WHAT’S HAPPENING INSIDE SANLAM REALITY

EARN CASH BACK

GET TO GOLD

Save like these members

www.sanlamreality.co.za

There’s still time!

72 BENEFITS

All your Sanlam Reality benefits and discount percentages

SPRING 2019/SUMMER 2020 REALITY

“My Sanlam Money Saver has made saving so much easier” The new Sanlam Money Saver credit card has changed the way people save – it’s the only credit card that helps you save every time you spend.

HOW THE SANLAM MONEY SAVER WORKS

How is the Sanlam Money Saver credit card different to other credit cards? Every time you swipe your Sanlam Money Saver credit card, you commit to adding an additional 2.5% to a dedicated savings account. For example, when you swipe your card for R1 000, an extra R25 (2.5%) is charged to your card as a savings contribution. Then comes the fun part: to reward you, Sanlam matches your 2.5% saving, which goes into your dedicated savings account. That’s a total saving of up to 5%! If you don’t want to opt into co-saving, you still save. Sanlam rewards you by adding 1% of the value of your spend to a dedicated savings account.

HOW TO APPLY

Savings at no extra cost to you

Yes, you read correctly. We’ve teamed up with Reward Partners. This means that whenever you swipe at these retailers, they commit to contributing your 2.5% on your behalf. Then, Sanlam matches this rand for rand – so you get the whole 5% saving at no extra cost to you! If you haven’t opted into cosavings, you’ll still get 3% added to your savings when you swipe at Reward Partners. Everyone wins!

Enjoy your bonus

Your savings get paid out as a Cash-back Bonus quarterly or annually, so you always have rewards to look forward to.

Our Reward Partners Edgars, Adidas, Tiger Wheel & Tyre, Toys R Us, Jet, New Balance, Forever 21, CNA, Incredible Connection, Babies R Us, Tyres & More and Reebok. T&Cs apply.

The Sanlam Money Saver credit card is only available to Sanlam clients, like you. To apply, visit moneysaver.cards and complete the online form. Scan this QR code using your smartphone camera to watch a video about the Sanlam Money Saver credit card.

REALITY SPRING 2019/SUMMER 2020

www.sanlamreality.co.za

real world

HERE’S HOW WE SAVED

Rukshana Allie, from Cape Town, has been using her card for three months.

R6 000 “One month I spent R6 000 on my Sanlam Money Saver credit card.”

R300 “I got R300 cash-back for that month.”

Quick, hassle-free application “The application process was quick and easy. There was no need for me to provide supporting documents, as these were sourced directly from my bank. I was kept informed by SMS about the progress of my application, and it was approved on the same day.”

I love that… “The monthly fees are waivered for the first three months. When I shop at one of the Reward Partners, they contribute to my savings.”

I’d recommend it to friends because… “Saving has become so much easier. Every time I swipe, I automatically save. I also receive up to three secondary cards at no additional cost, and I love that the Cash-back Bonus payout is as frequent as quarterly or annually.” www.sanlamreality.co.za

Amina Parker, 26, has been using her card for three months. “The cash-back is quite cool because I am terrible at saving. My online statement and monthly SMSs show me how much I’ve saved, which is pretty fascinating to me.”

It’s changed my saving behaviour “You get 55 days interest-free, so I pay off my credit card within 55 days meaning I don’t pay interest; but I still enjoy an additional 5% of my spend added to a savings account. I’ve increased my monthly savings significantly without feeling the difference on my pocket. I’ve gone from struggling to save to doing it automatically with every swipe – brilliant! This is instilling a savings habit in me, which is great.”

I love that… “I didn’t have to do any sort of activation when I went overseas. It’s a Mastercard, so I could swipe it everywhere. They didn’t add a percentage every time I swiped overseas, unlike two other banks I am with.”

I’d recommend it to friends because… “The application process was quick and easy, which is always preferable in the fast-paced world we live in.” SPRING 2019/SUMMER 2020 REALITY

real world

You can get to

GOLD! You have until the close of 2019 to earn tier points and change your tier status for 2020. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s still time to ensure that you enjoy the biggest possible discounts on your benefits in the new year. Here are some suggestions how â&#x20AC;&#x201C; find even more ways on our website.

Why does your tier points status matter?

Because the higher your tier status, the bigger the discounts you receive on your benefits! For example, a Reality Plus member on the gold tier status enjoys 30% off their Uber trips, while a Reality Plus member on the bronze tier status enjoys 20% off.

EARN TIER POINTS

Visit www.sanlamreality.co.za/earn-points to see how you can earn tier points, and to find out more about logging and tracking your tier points status. You can also view your tier points status in the free Sanlam Reality App.

1 500 points

1 000 points

Update your contact details

5 8 000 points

Reasons to use your Sanlam client portal today!

10 000 points Meet with a Sanlam financial planner

Do a basic medical test (excludes Santam members)

1 000 points Use our financial calculators & tools

3 000 points

Use your client portal at cp.sanlam.co.za for easy, secure access to your Sanlam product portfolio and other services – anytime, anywhere. As a Sanlam client, all you need to register is a valid email address and cell phone number.

1 2

View your Sanlam product portfolio in real time.

Access all documents relating to your Sanlam plans (such as client agreements and contracts, statements, tax certificates and more).

Complete an online wellness check

Update your details and transact securely in a place and time convenient to you.

10 000 points

1 000 points Get your vehicle safety checked (Santam members only)

Complete a financial questionnaire

Upload and safely store important documents such as your ID, birth certificate and legal documents under My Documents.

If you have a will stored with Sanlam, you’ll find it here too.

3 000 points

500 points Refer a friend and get 500 points per referral

Use TaxTim to complete your tax return

2 000 points Create a free Sanlam Online Will

Photography: Shutterstock

Ka-ching!

As many as 40 000 points earned!

www.sanlamreality.co.za

SPRING 2019/SUMMER 2020 REALITY

benefits

Sanlam Reality benefits table Reality Health

Reality Plus

Reality Core

Sanlam Life Cover

Up to 30% off

n/a

Sanlam Gap Cover

Extra cover for your hospital stay

Sanlam online will

Free with secure will storage

Sanlam Personal Loan

Cash-back reward of up to 20% Cash-back reward of up to 20% Cash-back reward of up to 20%

Wealth Sense

Online financial platform

TaxTim

Complimentary tax assistance Complimentary tax assistance Complimentary tax assistance

Funeral cover

For Fedhealth members only

n/a

For Fedhealth members only

Pet Accident Cover

For Fedhealth members only

n/a

For Fedhealth members only

Virgin Active

As much as 60% off

n/a

Planet Fitness Gym

As much as 80% off

As much as 60% off

JustGym

As much as 80% off

As much as 60% off

Independent Gyms & Studios

As much as 60% off

As much as 40% off

Mango flights

As much as 30% off

As much as 20% off

Emirates flights

As much as 25% off

n/a

Protea Hotels by Marriott®

As much as 30% off

As much as 20% off

Tempest Car Hire

Pay as little as R230 per day

Uber trips

As much as 30% off

Bidvest Premier Lounge

Up to 20 visits/year

n/a

International Travel Insurance

For Fedhealth members only

n/a

For Fedhealth members only

Nu Metro movies & refreshments

R30 for 2D or R50 for 3D; R35 for refreshment combo

R30 for 2D; R35 for refreshment combo

Computicket shows and sport

Buy one ticket and get one free up to R300

n/a

simfy africa music streaming

Six months’ complimentary; save 7.5% thereafter

AlwaysOn Wi-Fi

1GB data/month

n/a

Reality magazine

Three times a year

24/7, 365 days a year

Adds up to 5% of spend to your savings

Wealth

Online financial platform

Health

Travel

Entertainment

Personal Services Personal Assistant Day-to-Day Sanlam Money Saver credit card

REALITY SPRING 2019/SUMMER 2020

www.sanlamreality.co.za

You donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need to fly overseas to go on an adventure

Get a discount of

as much as

30%

on Mango flights

To book, go to www.sanlamreality.co.za/benefit/mango-flights or call 0860 732 548/9 for more information. T&Cs apply.

Your favourite benefits

in your pocket The free Sanlam Reality App is here!

Simple. Convenient. 24/7.

Download or find out more The Sanlam Reality App makes enjoying your benefits even easier – and more rewarding. Access benefits including discounts on Nu Metro bookings, Uber trips and Independent Gyms & Studios. Plus, chat to your Personal Assistant, access your digital membership card, store credit cards for payment and track your tier points. T&Cs apply.

Visit www.sanlamreality.co.za for more.