What does it take to live a better life?
More money surely helps. But it isn’t the whole story, is it?
That’s why, when we’re speaking with clients about their financial goals, we focus on all three of:
- Health
- Prosperity
- Happiness.
It’s these three things that we feel add up to a better life.
The pyramid below explains this in visual form.
At the base of the pyramid are the money elements of a comprehensive financial plan. But as the pyramid shows, these are the foundational elements only. They are just the building blocks towards achieving higher objectives in life.
When working with a financial adviser, it’s important that all the important finance questions are addressed:
- What’s the best investment strategy?
- Will I have enough to retire comfortably?
- Will my money last?
- How much should I be contributing to super?
- What can I do to be more tax-effective?
But those questions should just be the start of the conversation, not the end. Other important questions and items to address include:
- What are your money beliefs?
- Where do you think these were formed?
- Does your money personality reflect the lessons of your parents or your own experience?
- How satisfied you are with your financial life and your life more broadly?
- What life transitions are coming up and on the horizon? How can we effectively plan for those?
- What is your ideal future?
- How would you answer the following:
- If I had more money, I would…
- I am happiest when …
- I have always wanted to …
Throughout the financial planning process, it’s important that you think deeply about your life and what you value most. After all, your values are the starting point to which all your money decisions should align. Because when they do align, all of this really starts to add up:
Health + Prosperity + Happiness = A better life