Staci Tan: Secrets to Financial Freedom & Success
From music to money, Staci Tan’s journey into finance was anything but ordinary. With a passion for empowering individuals—especially women and business owners—she helps them navigate the complexities of financial planning, wealth building, and long-term security. As the founder of Her Prosperité, Staci is on a mission to make financial independence accessible to all. In this exclusive feature, she shares her insights on breaking financial barriers, smart money strategies, and the mindset shifts needed to achieve lasting success.
What inspired you to become a licensed financial professional, and how has your journey evolved over the years?
My journey into the financial industry has been shaped by my diverse background and passion for helping people. I originally studied music education and worked in different fields before finding my calling in finance. Throughout my experiences, one thing remained constant—I’ve always been a natural connector. I love bringing people together, sharing knowledge, and helping others access the right resources to make informed decisions.
The turning point that led me to this career happened when a close friend in China asked me for guidance on global financial planning. She was navigating complex financial decisions and needed someone she could trust. That moment made me realize how many individuals, especially those in international and immigrant communities, struggle with financial planning simply because they lack access to the right knowledge and support. I felt a strong calling to bridge that gap.
Since becoming a licensed financial professional, I’ve embraced this role with a deep sense of purpose. Now, as I begin my journey with Global Woman Club, I am excited to connect with inspiring women from different backgrounds and experiences. I believe that when women come together to share knowledge and support one another, we all grow stronger. I look forward to learning, contributing, and being part of a community that uplifts and empowers women worldwide.
Many business owners struggle with financial security. What are some of the most common financial blind spots they overlook, and how can they address them?
Many business owners assume that as long as their sales are strong, they’re financially secure. But financial security isn’t just about revenue—it’s about protecting what you’ve built. Unfortunately, some business owners don’t realize their blind spots until it’s too late.
That’s exactly what happened to Emma. She thought she had everything under control—until an unexpected lawsuit forced her to rethink her financial strategy. Without business insurance in place, she had to dip into her savings to cover legal fees. Suddenly, the success she had worked so hard for felt fragile.
Emma isn’t alone. Many entrepreneurs make similar mistakes without realizing it. Here are five of the most common financial blind spots business owners overlook—and how to fix them before it’s too late.
1. Thinking Revenue Equals Financial Security
Emma’s business was thriving, but when the lawsuit hit, she realized strong revenue wasn’t enough. Many business owners assume that as long as money is coming in, they’re financially safe. But without an emergency fund, proper insurance, or a risk management plan, one unexpected event can wipe out years of hard work.
Fix it: Secure business insurance, build an emergency fund, and have a contingency plan in place.
2. Mixing Personal and Business Finances
In her early days, Emma used her personal card for business expenses. It was convenient—until tax season arrived. Sorting through a mess of transactions led to costly errors and tax inefficiencies. Worse, she had no clear picture of her actual business profits.
Fix it: Keep finances separate. Open a business bank account, establish a structured payroll, and work with an accountant to ensure a tax-efficient strategy.
3. Underestimating Taxes
Emma had always treated taxes as something to handle at year-end. But when she faced a hefty tax bill she wasn’t prepared for, she realized she had been leaving money on the table by missing key deductions and not optimizing her tax strategy.
Fix it: Plan for taxes year-round. Work with a tax professional to maximize deductions, plan for quarterly payments, and explore tax-efficient investment options.
4. Relying Too Much on the Business for Retirement
Emma believed her business was her retirement plan. “One day, I’ll sell it and retire comfortably,” she thought. But what if market conditions changed? What if she wanted to step away sooner? The reality was, she had no financial cushion outside of her business.
Fix it: Diversify your financial future. Consider a Solo 401(k) or SEP IRA to build wealth outside of your business and secure financial independence.
5. No Exit or Succession Plan
One day, Emma received an unexpected offer to buy her business. Exciting? Yes. But she had no exit strategy in place—no valuation, no succession plan, no transition strategy. She had spent years building something valuable but had no structured plan for what would happen next.
Fix it: Plan for the future, even if you don’t intend to sell soon. Having an exit strategy ensures you maximize the value of what you’ve built and make transitions seamless for you, your family, or your partners.
Final Thoughts: Take Control of Your Financial Future
Emma’s wake-up call came just in time—before disaster struck. She worked with financial professionals to create a safety net, separate her finances, plan for taxes, invest in retirement, and structure a business exit plan. Now, she’s not just running a successful business—she’s building lasting financial security.
You don’t have to learn these lessons the hard way. By identifying and addressing these blind spots early, you can protect your business, your future, and your peace of mind.
As the founder of Her Prosperité, what key financial lessons do you believe every woman should know to achieve financial independence?
As the founder of Her Prosperité, I believe financial independence isn’t just about making money—it’s about keeping, growing, and protecting it so that it works for you. Modern women are investing in their health, beauty, and lifestyle—why not invest in financial confidence and security the same way? Here are the key lessons every woman should know:
1. Financial Protection is the Foundation of Wealth
Just like we invest in skincare to prevent wrinkles or exercise to stay strong, protecting your finances should come before growing them. The smartest women don’t just think about making money—they make sure their money and loved ones are protected, no matter what happens.
2. True Independence Comes from Multiple Income Streams
One paycheck is great, but it shouldn’t be your only source of financial security. The wealthiest women understand that money should be working for them, even when they’re not working. Whether it’s investments, passive income, or financial strategies that grow over time, having multiple income sources gives you freedom and options.
3. A Smart Budget Gives You More Freedom, Not Less
Budgeting isn’t about restriction—it’s about spending with purpose so you can enjoy life without financial stress. A well-planned financial strategy allows you to live fully today while securing your future.
4. Invest Early, Even If It’s Small
You don’t need to be wealthy to start investing—you need to start to build wealth. The earlier you put your money to work, the more financial freedom you’ll have down the road. Women who understand the power of compound growth and tax-advantaged financial tools position themselves for long-term success.
5. Financial Confidence is the Ultimate Power
Money shouldn’t be overwhelming or intimidating. The key to financial confidence is understanding how to manage, grow, and protect your wealth—so you’re making decisions from a place of knowledge, not fear.
6. Luxury is Temporary, Legacy is Forever
A designer bag is great, but true luxury is the ability to make life choices without financial limitations. The wealthiest women don’t just think about today—they plan for the future, ensuring their financial success lasts for generations.
At Her Prosperité, my goal is to help women take control of their finances—not just to earn more, but to build, protect, and enjoy their wealth without fear or confusion. Because financial independence isn’t just about numbers—it’s about having the power to design the life you truly want
How has the financial landscape changed in recent years, and what trends should individuals and business owners be aware of?
The financial world has changed dramatically, and just like fashion and beauty trends evolve, so do money strategies. Smart women and business owners don’t just keep up—they stay ahead.
Take Sophia, for example. She’s a business owner who used to think keeping money in a savings account was enough. But as she watched her costs rise and her savings lose value, she realized she needed a new strategy. She started paying attention to financial trends, and what she learned completely changed the way she manages her money.
Here’s what Sophia (and you) need to know:
1. Inflation is the Silent Wealth Stealer
When Sophia noticed her grocery bills creeping up and the same amount of money buying less each year, she realized inflation was silently eating away at her savings.
• Just like skipping sunscreen can lead to long-term damage, ignoring inflation slowly erodes your money’s value.
• Prices are rising, and traditional savings accounts aren’t enough—your money needs to be working, not sitting.
What Sophia Did: She started investing in assets that outpace inflation—diversifying into real estate, tax-efficient financial tools, and long-term investments to protect her purchasing power.
2. High-Interest Rates Are Changing the Game
Sophia had big plans to expand her business, but with rising interest rates, taking on a loan suddenly became a much bigger commitment.
• Borrowing is more expensive, making it harder to rely on credit for big purchases or business growth.
• On the flip side, high-interest environments create new opportunities for earning, such as high-yield savings accounts.
What Sophia Did: Instead of taking on new debt, she focused on strengthening her financial foundation—paying off existing loans faster and using smarter financial products that work for her, not against her.
3. Wealth is About Strategy, Not Just Income
Sophia was making good money, but at the end of the year, she was shocked by how much went to taxes. She realized that growing wealth wasn’t just about working harder—it was about working smarter.
• Making more money doesn’t mean keeping more—especially with rising taxes and changing regulations.
• Smart financial planning isn’t just about earning—it’s about structuring money to grow efficiently.
What Sophia Did: She worked with a financial professional to optimize her taxes, set up strategic savings plans, and explore passive income sources so she could grow wealth without working 24/7.
4. Financial Independence = More Freedom, More Choices
Sophia’s goal wasn’t just retirement—it was about having the freedom to make choices, whether it was traveling, spending more time with her kids, or starting another business.
• Women are taking control of their financial futures more than ever before, and businesses are adapting to serve their needs.
• The goal isn’t just retirement anymore—it’s about financial flexibility at every stage of life.
What Sophia Did: She set long-term financial goals that gave her flexibility—ensuring she had enough financial security to make choices on her terms.
5. The Future of Finance is Digital & Personalized
At first, Sophia felt overwhelmed by new financial technologies, but once she started exploring AI-driven financial tools, she realized they could make managing money easier than ever.
• AI-driven financial tools are making money management more accessible, and digital assets are changing how people invest.
• Just like skincare routines are customized for different skin types, modern finance is moving toward personalized wealth strategies.
What Sophia Did: She started using AI-based budgeting apps, automated investing platforms, and financial tools that personalized her savings and investment strategies.
Final Thought: Take Control of Your Financial Future
The financial world is shifting fast, but smart women don’t just react—they plan. Just like Sophia learned, staying informed and making strategic financial moves today will give you more freedom, security, and choices tomorrow.
As a mother of three, how do you balance your career, family, and passion for financial literacy, and what advice would you give to others seeking financial stability?
Balancing Career, Family, and Financial Literacy: A Mother’s Perspective
As a mother of three, a professional, and someone deeply passionate about financial literacy, I’ve learned that balance isn’t about doing everything at once—it’s about being intentional with your time, energy, and financial choices. Life is busy, but having a solid financial foundation allows me to focus on what truly matters: my family’s well-being and our future security.
How I Manage It All:
Prioritizing Financial Security for My Family – Raising children comes with a lot of responsibilities, and having a strong financial plan gives me peace of mind. I make sure we’re covered in case of unexpected situations, while also planning for the future.
Making Financial Literacy a Part of Everyday Life – I believe financial education starts at home. I teach my children the basics—saving, spending wisely, and understanding the value of money—so they grow up confident about their financial choices.
Finding Stability Through Smart Planning – Managing a family budget, planning for big expenses, and saving for the future require discipline. I focus on balancing today’s needs with long-term goals, so we can enjoy life while staying financially secure.
Building Long-Term Wealth, Not Just Income – Earning money is important, but making it work for you is even more crucial. I prioritize financial tools that provide stability and growth over time, ensuring that my family has financial security no matter what life brings.
Being a Role Model for My Children – I believe that when my children see me working hard, setting goals, and staying committed, they learn the value of discipline and perseverance. I want them to understand that dreams come true not by chance but through dedication, learning, and helping others. By showing them what it means to work toward a goal, I hope to inspire them to chase their own ambitions with confidence.
Advice for Others Seeking Financial Stability:
Start with Protection Before Growth – Before thinking about investments, make sure you have a strong financial safety net in place (savings, insurance, emergency funds). Stability comes from security.
Be Intentional with Your Money – Just like managing a household, managing finances requires a clear plan and priorities. Know where your money is going and make it work for you.
Think Long-Term – Financial independence isn’t built overnight. Small, consistent steps in saving and investing add up over time.
You Don’t Have to Do It Alone – Financial literacy isn’t about knowing everything—it’s about having the right tools and guidance to make informed decisions. Surround yourself with resources that help you grow.
Final Thought: Financial stability isn’t just about numbers—it’s about creating freedom, security, and choices for yourself and your family. By making smart financial decisions today and leading by example, we can teach our children that with hard work, learning, and a willingness to help others, anything is possible.
