In a world that often glorifies the “stay positive” mantra, it’s easy to fall into the trap of toxic positivity — the belief that no matter how dire or difficult a situation, people should maintain a positive mindset. But is there such a thing as too much positivity? According to Dr. Susan David, a psychologist at Harvard Medical School and author of “Emotional Agility,” the answer is a resounding yes. “Forced positivity is not leadership. It’s […]
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Balancing our need for control
At the heart of financial planning lies a universal truth: we plan to gain control over the unforeseen and to navigate life’s uncertainties with confidence. As Lyall Watson, the renowned biologist and writer, insightfully observed, “We survive by controlling our environment. And control is made possible by information.” This principle, deeply rooted in our survival instinct, finds profound relevance in the realm of personal finance and wealth management. It’s about harnessing the power of information to […]
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Smaller, manageable chunks, today
In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s easy to push aside the administrative tasks that seem daunting or time-consuming. Yet, when tax season rolls around, many find themselves overwhelmed by the mountain of financial paperwork that has piled up. The principle of tackling big tasks in small, manageable chunks isn’t new, but it’s astonishing how often it’s overlooked, especially when it comes to managing our finances. As the well-known organising consultant Marie Kondo says, […]
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Get stuck, get strong!
In every life, there will inevitably come times when we find ourselves at a standstill, facing challenges that seem insurmountable. It’s during these moments, when we’re stuck and the path forward is unclear, that our true strength is forged. The adage “Sometimes we need to get stuck, in order to get strong” speaks volumes about the transformative power of adversity. The poet Rumi once said, “The wound is the place where the Light enters you.” This […]
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Courage: The catalyst for personal and financial transformation
In the journey of life, courage is often the unsung hero that propels us toward change and growth. It’s the force that challenges us to step out of our comfort zones and embrace the unknown. Bonnie Garmus aptly reminds us, “Courage is the root of change – and change is what we’re chemically designed to do.” This powerful statement is a call to action, urging us to break free from the constraints of fear and self-doubt […]
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Don’t count the days; make them count!
In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s easy to fall into the routine of counting days, waiting for the weekend, holidays or the next big event. But there’s a much more fulfilling approach to life, one that doesn’t just passively count the days but actively makes each day count. This perspective is not just about productivity or achievement; it’s about infusing each day with purpose and meaning. Viktor E. Frankl, a Holocaust survivor and […]
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The ripple effect of change
Change, a constant companion in our journey through life, often becomes a focal point as we transition into a new year. However, its principles are timeless, transcending the boundaries of calendars and seasons. The essence of change lies in grand resolutions and the subtle shifts of our everyday choices – from our thoughts and attitudes to our actions. Significantly, these changes, no matter how small, can profoundly impact our finances and social environment. At the heart […]
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It’s the steady hand on the tiller
In the insightful words of Nick Murray, “All financial success comes from acting on a plan. A lot of financial failure comes from reacting to the market.” This statement is a powerful reminder of a fundamental truth in financial management: the undeniable value of proactive planning over the pitfalls of reactive responses. Financial success doesn’t just happen by chance; it’s the fruit of deliberate, thoughtful planning. It often helps to think of your financial plan as […]
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Revitalising your planning approach
At any moment during the year, finding the space to pause and reflect is more than just a breather; it’s a chance for a transformative new start. It’s an opportunity to step back from the day-to-day grind, to reassess and to break free from the habitual patterns that often govern our approach to planning and organising both our lives and our finances. By stepping outside these familiar routines, we open ourselves up to fresh perspectives and […]
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The integral role of tax planning in financial strategy
When it comes to shaping a robust financial plan, understanding and preparing for the complexities of tax planning is crucial. Tax considerations play a pivotal role in financial decision-making, influencing everything from investment choices to retirement planning. While tax laws and regulations vary across countries, the core principles of tax planning hold universal relevance and can significantly impact your financial health. Why Tax Planning Matters Tax planning is more than just a year-end activity or a […]
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