I have often seen some of the best financial planning clients – the ones who save and invest regularly, protect their assets, care about their futures and families, and are meticulous about being on track with their finances, and struggle to transition into retirement.  

They have done a tremendous job and deserve credit for putting themselves in the fortunate financial position they are in.  They have saved and lived within their means for so long, so starting to spend and use their money that they have accumulated feels so foreign to them.  They aren’t necessarily depriving themselves, but they aren’t necessarily enjoying their position to the fullest either.

But the reality is that none of us will live forever, and everyone’s day will eventually come, and no one gets a reward for being the richest person in the graveyard.  There are also many people who may have an underlying feeling or inkling as to what their purpose in life is or how they may want to use their money, but they don’t fully pursue it.  I feel there are many people who are fortunately successful with their money, but they also need to be more successful in not missing their opportunity to live their lives and enjoy a life of significance, right now!

I believe part of my role as a Financial Planner and Advisor for clients is to help them utilize their money as a tool to help them enjoy life and realize their life’s purpose.

It’s their money, they have busted their butt to earn, save, and grow it, and as long as they are not jeopardizing their own financial security, they deserve to enjoy their money and utilize it towards fulfilling their life’s purpose today.

If one reaches the point of financial security and can afford to utilize their money, while not disrupting their financial independence, they should strive to take advantage of their position and look for daily opportunities to enjoy life, pursue their dreams, and live their purpose.  For example: 

1. If you want that extra tall coffee at Starbucks, go get it!

2. If you have always dreamed of going to Fiji, go now!

3. If you have always wanted to help your Son or Daughter launch a business idea that they have had but couldn’t afford to pursue it, help them now!

4. If you have always wanted to help end poverty or end cancer, do something about it today!

If you or someone you know may fit this description, please share that you have worked hard to climb up to the mountain top, and hopefully you have had a great guide or Advisor along the way to help you reach the Summit.  Enjoy your journey along the way to the top, but also don’t forget to enjoy the view once you get there.