Financial Planning in Simple Terms

Every industry has jargon, but financial services take it to a whole new level.

A simple goal of saving for retirement can quickly become a complicated mission of accumulating a diverse portfolio for risk-adjusted assets to enable lifetime withdrawals.

When a financial plan is presented in such an impersonal and complex manner, it's no surprise that people feel disconnected from it.

The truth is that financial planning is all about meeting basic human needs, and it doesn't have to be difficult.

As a financial planner who specialises in working with people nearing retirement, I've discovered that stating your financial goals in human terms is the most effective way to achieve them.

So, let's skip the industry jargon and get back to basics. What are your true goals? What are the most important things to you? It's critical to remember that we all have a few deeply human desires that should be prioritised.

For example, if you died tomorrow, you would want to know that your family would not be impoverished.

If you became seriously ill, you would want to know that your family would not be burdened financially.

You don't want to run out of money in retirement and have to rely on the government or your children.

If you require long-term care, you don't want to become a financial burden on others.

And you most likely want to leave a legacy to your children without causing conflict or having nearly half of it taxed.

All of these are simple goals, but they are profoundly human.

And you might have other goals that are just as simple to express. The financial planning process should meet you where you are and speak in a language that you understand. Insist on it being so, because inevitably some of your most cherished life goals are at stake!

So, whether you're just getting started with retirement planning or you're well on your way, keep in mind that financial planning is all about meeting basic human needs. You can create a financial plan that motivates action and commitment by stating your goals in simple, human terms.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, don't let financial industry jargon get in the way of your true ambitions.

Maintain your focus on what is most important to you, and work with a financial planner who speaks your language.

You can achieve your financial goals and live the retirement you've always desired with the right approach.

For a more detailed discussion on this topic, please feel free to contact us. Our team are always available to answer your questions and to help you with any of your financial planning needs. Here’s what we offer: A cup of coffee… and a second opinion.

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