“He’s making a list, and checking it twice; Gonna find out who’s naughty and nice.” You’ve probably heard that line once or twice, right? For those who celebrate Christmas, there’s a tradition that speaks to Santa Claus having two lists, and only the kids on the nice list (good and well-behaved)… get gifts. Interestingly, this is not a Christmas-time tradition, but rather a parenting hack designed to keep kids in line during the rest of the […]
Continue readingMore TagRiding the waves of financial uncertainty
In the vast ocean of financial management, money anxiety often feels like an unending series of waves. Sometimes, these waves are gentle, nudging us towards better financial habits. Other times, they are overwhelming, born from the tempests of unexpected life events and shifting economic landscapes. It’s easy to become fixated on wealth creation, focusing solely on returns, innovative ideas, and bigger salaries. Yet, as a renowned financial advisor wisely observed, “It’s not the high waves but […]
Continue readingMore TagThe Power of ‘Get To’ Over ‘Have To’
Life only seems to get busier – no matter how hard we try to slow things down. It’s easy to fall into a pattern of viewing tasks and responsibilities as burdens, things we ‘have to’ do. This mindset, often a default setting, can make our days feel heavy and obligatory. But what if we could shift this perspective? What if, instead of ‘I have to’, we started saying ‘I get to’? This simple linguistic flip can […]
Continue readingMore TagIt’s important to check in
In the realm of financial planning, we often focus on numbers, strategies, and future projections. Yet, a recent conversation shared on twitter underscores a different, but equally vital aspect of our work: the importance of simply being there and listening. A financial planner recounted an experience with a retired client. It had been months since their last conversation, and a brief note about a transaction led the client to call, seeking clarity. This call unveiled a […]
Continue readingMore TagThe relationships we cherish and celebrate
In the rhythmic and deceptively unpredictable day-in and day-out of our calendars, there are moments when our wallets feel significantly lighter. The end of the year, with its festive sparkle and cheer, often brings a flurry of spending that can leave many of us dizzy. It’s not just the holidays, though. Think about that one month when it seems everyone you know is celebrating a birthday, or perhaps the season of weddings and anniversaries. These periods […]
Continue readingMore TagLess scrolling, more strolling
Screens dominate much of our waking hours. There’s a growing need to disconnect from the virtual and reconnect with the tangible world around us. The mantra “less scrolling, more strolling” captures this sentiment perfectly, encouraging a shift from passive, screen-based activities to active, physical engagement with our surroundings, particularly through walking. The act of walking, especially with family, friends, clients, pets, or neighbours, offers a wealth of restorative benefits that go far beyond mere physical exercise. […]
Continue readingMore TagThe Ballad of Golden Means
The Ballad of Golden Means In sooth, a tale of coin oft told, Doth shake the hearts of young and old; For lucre’s siren song entwines The very core of mortal lines. Yet, shall we to this master bow? Or find we balance ‘twixt the bough? In measure fair and wisdom’s sight, Let not the gold our souls indict. For though the purse may fill with glee, ’Tis but a shadow’s feign’d decree. A full heart […]
Continue readingMore TagThe balance of heart and mind in financial contentment
Navigating the intricate dance of financial planning is not just a cerebral affair; it’s a delicate blend of the analytical mind and the intuitive heart. Money, often viewed through the lens of cold numbers and stark figures, is deeply intertwined with the warm weavings of our emotions and dreams. It demands a symphony of technical skill and emotional intelligence—a symphony that, when played right, can lead to profound financial contentment. The sage words of Maya Angelou […]
Continue readingMore TagWhy we may never have ‘enough’
The concept of ‘enough’ remains as elusive as the horizon — always visible yet forever just out of reach. This is particularly true in our relationship with money, a relationship that often mirrors the depths of human desire and the complexities of contentment. The nature of enough is a philosophical rabbit hole. On the one hand, it is an acknowledgement of sufficiency, a nod to the point where need and provision are in harmony. Yet, paradoxically, […]
Continue readingMore TagDon’t bank on it being the bank…
How to Recognize and Respond to Email Fraud In a world increasingly reliant on digital communication, email fraud has become a pervasive threat, with scammers employing sophisticated tactics to compromise personal and professional email accounts. They often cloak their schemes behind the names of established brands, sowing confusion and exploiting trust. Cybercriminals frequently target the trusted names of our main banking institutions, capitalising (quite literally…) on their reputations to create a veneer of legitimacy. These impostors […]
Continue readingMore Tag