Stop Waiting to Be Rescued: How to Take Back Control in an Uncertain Global Economy

It’s impossible to ignore the headlines.

Markets wobble, currencies shift, trade tensions flare and most recently, the world is once again watching the ripple effects of Donald Trump’s return to the political spotlight. Global economies don’t exist in isolation and whether it’s policy, posturing, or political upheaval, uncertainty at the top often trickles down.

And for many women, particularly those building businesses, managing households, or supporting others, this level of uncertainty doesn’t just feel unsettling. it can feel paralysing.

But this is my advice.

You don’t have to wait for stability to feel secure.

You don’t have to wait for rescue to reclaim your power.

In fact, this is the moment to stop outsourcing your financial wellbeing to forces you can’t control and start owning what is within your power.

Because the facts are, there will always be volatility.

But how you respond to it? That’s where the shift happens.

The Power of Focusing on the Controllables

We’re often taught to believe that economic strength is defined by external indicators e.g. interest rates, inflation data, political policies. And while these matter, they’re not the whole story, especially not when it comes to your personal economy.

So ask yourself

What am I actually in control of right now?

Where am I outsourcing responsibility for my financial wellbeing?

What am I avoiding because it feels too big, too uncertain, or too far away?

Focusing on the controllables isn’t about putting your head in the sand, it’s about building clarity, confidence and resilience where you stand, today.

You may not control the markets. But you can control how you spend, save, earn  and think about money.

And that’s where your power lies.

It’s Time to Become Your Own Rescuer

We’re conditioned,especially as women, to believe someone else will show up with the answers.

A politician. A partner. A policy. A program.

But relying on someone else to “fix it” keeps you in a cycle of waiting, hoping, and often, quietly shrinking.

Instead, becoming your own rescuer means recognising this

You are the best person to take care of your financial future.

You are capable of understanding what’s going on.

You are powerful enough to make different choices, even when things feel uncertain.

It doesn’t require perfection. It requires permission. From you.

Three Steps to Regain Financial Confidence

1. Audit your financial behaviour not just your bank balance

Start with awareness. Where is your money going? What’s the story behind each choice? Are your actions aligned with what you value, or are they fuelled by fear, scarcity, or habit?

You don’t need to judge yourself,  you need to see clearly.

2. Build your financial foundations

Even small steps matter. Create or top up your emergency fund.Review your monthly expenses.
Check in with your financial goals and bring them back into focus. Sharp focus.

This isn’t about restriction. It’s about building a strong enough base to move forward with confidence, whatever the headlines say.

3. Get curious, not frozen

Read. Ask questions. Learn how the economy works in simple, human terms. And if you don’t understand something, find someone who can explain it without making you feel small.

The more you understand, the more empowered you become. Fear thrives in confusion. Confidence grows through clarity.

Uncertainty Doesn’t Mean Inaction

What’s happening in the global economy matters. But it doesn’t get to dictate how you show up, build your wealth, or lead your life.

You are not powerless.

You have choices, agency, and strength — even when the world feels shaky.

So don’t wait for calm skies to start taking control.

Become your own rescuer today, because when you do, you stop waiting to be saved, and start creating a life where you lead from strength, not fear.

Lesley Thomas is the founder of The Money Confidence Academy and host of the Let’s Talk Money and More podcast.

For more information visit, www.themoneyconfidenceacdemy.com, to find out more about Lesley, her coaching and resources. Or connect with her on LinkedIn 

Tune into the ‘Let’s Talk Money and more’ podcast, to hear from Lesley and her guests, talking everything money, mindset and financial growth.