For years, I’ve followed Paul Armson, a leading voice in lifestyle financial planning. He emphasises that financial planning should focus on what truly matters to people. My own approach follows the same philosophy.

Paul published a book called ‘Enough? How Much Money Do You Need for the Rest of Your Life?’ This book, available widely, is an excellent resource for anyone wanting to gain financial clarity. According to Paul, research shows that most people don't have a clear understanding of where they’re headed financially. Many have assets...

Ships primarily have one purpose, which is to transport goods and people across the seas. However, navigating the open waters can be perilous. And the safety of a harbour usually offers protection from nature’s unpredictability.
 
This idea perfectly captures the essence of lifestyle financial planning. Just as ships are meant to sail, financial resources are meant to be used to enhance ours and our loved one’s lives. Not left to stagnate. Whilst security is essential, it shouldn’t be mistaken for inaction.
 
Lifestyle financial planning foc...

Lifestyle financial planning can be likened to the ancient wisdom of ‘collect your own firewood and make your own fire.’ These words of wisdom emphasise ownership, preparation and strategic planning. The approach prioritises aligning your finances with the life you desire, rather than simply amassing wealth.
 
The first step involves understanding your personal values, goals and what truly brings you fulfilment. Just as selecting the right firewood ensures a healthy fire, identifying your financial needs, priorities and non-negotiables is cr...

A few weeks ago, I attended a workshop where I heard a memorable phrase quoted by Tony Gordon, one of the pioneers of lifestyle financial planning: ‘The future is inevitable if we know what we want it to be.’
 
The principle behind this statement is that if we are clear about what we want our future to look like and plan accordingly, that future becomes inevitable. This approach encourages us to move beyond mere aspirations and actively design our lives in a purposeful manner.
 
At its core, lifestyle financial planning emphasises the importance...

In the popular UK television series ‘Grand Designs’, individuals embark on ambitious architectural projects. Turning unique and often challenging visions into the home of their dreams.
 
The process involves extensive planning, budgeting and problem-solving. Where the homeowner works closely with architects and builders, balancing creative ambitions with practical constraints.
 
A common challenge is that the homeowners often have difficulty articulating what their new home will look like. As they find it challenging, putting the image in their ...

This phrase was one that my Personal Trainer (yes, I have one), said to me some weeks ago. Serving as a poignant reminder of the intrinsic value of well-being over materialism.

While financial stability is undoubtedly crucial, prioritising our health yields long-term dividends that money cannot buy. In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to become ensnared in the pursuit of monetary ambition, at the expense of our health.

Stressful work environments, sedentary lifestyles and poor dietary habits often accompany the quest for financial prosp...

The adage ‘time is money’ is well known. Which we know is often regarded as the most precious of all commodities. What is not well known however, is it is intricately linked to lifestyle financial planning, where money can be earned, invested and spent. But time remains finite and irreplaceable.

The concept underscores the importance of efficiency and productivity. In managing an individual’s finances. Where delaying, can represent a potential loss in earnings or opportunities for wealth accumulation. Prudent lifestyle financial planning in...

Visualisation is a powerful tool that transcends mere wishful thinking. When individuals can vividly picture their desired lifestyle for example. Whether it be a comfortable retirement, a dream home or a globetrotting adventure.
 
But when they strategically plan, they are more likely to make informed financial decisions. To turn those visions into reality.
 
The process of lifestyle financial planning involves aligning one’s financial objectives, with personal values and aspirations. Where the planning plays a pivotal role. Acting as the fo...