The life cycle takes us all through at least one and invariably significantly more of the various challenges that we face. This is what I call life’s distractions.

Not all are bad. When life is going well and even when good news arrives, it can give us just as much to think about. Perhaps creating a successful business, receiving a bonus, getting a promotion or starting a new job. Or even an unexpected windfall. Whatever, it might be that we have to make some key decisions and important choices.
 
These are just some the things that go through peoples’ minds. And in many cases, these can cause real stress and even worry.

When people decide to engage in lifestyle financial planning, the most important task is for them to commit and invest into what I call the discovery process. Here, we spend an immense amount of time drilling down to where people are now. What they currently have and where they want to end up. Most importantly, why this is so important to them.
 
Understanding the why is essential, as ultimately, that’s what gives the motivation and reason for being.

This then becomes the central theme and focuses minds so we can get them on track. Followed by keeping them on track.
 
Remember that life is not a rehearsal, and we only get one crack at it. And although the money is important, it’s what we do with it that really counts.