Our mindset is crucial to our financial success. Dealing with our money can quickly become an obsessive task; either focusing solely on the amount we’re lacking or missing, or becoming obsessed with saving and storing up, we can sometimes do more harm than good. This is why mindset plays a significant role in how we approach financial planning.
Whilst a miss is as good as a mile, at the same time, too much of a good thing can be a bad thing.
To achieve balance in our financial lives, adopting a mindset that “just enough” is actually a very healthy space in which to be, can be helpful. This means recognizing that while saving and investing for the future is essential, enjoying life in the present is also crucial. With this mindset, we can create a financial plan that prioritizes our long-term goals while still allowing us to live comfortably in the present.
“Just enough”, however, is not a number; it’s actually a lifestyle choice. Yes, it’s sometimes represented by a number, but it will constantly change with our lives and situations. And, it is explored through a process of working with some of the following ideas:
- Identify your long-term financial goals: Determine what you want to achieve in the future, such as buying a home, starting a family, or retiring comfortably. This will help you understand how much you need to save and invest to reach these goals.
- Assess your current financial situation: Take stock of your income, expenses, debts, and assets to understand where you stand. This will give you an idea of how much you need to save, invest or spend to maintain a comfortable lifestyle.
- Prioritize your values and interests: Consider what aspects of your life are most important and what brings you the most joy. Allocating your resources towards these areas will contribute to your happiness and satisfaction.
Once you have defined your “just enough,” it’s time to implement this mindset into your financial plan. This involves balancing saving, investing, and spending that aligns with your long-term goals and values.
- Saving: While having an emergency fund and saving for specific goals is essential, remember that it’s also important to enjoy life now. Instead of obsessing over every penny saved, focus on building healthy savings habits and balancing saving and spending.
- Investing: As you work towards your long-term financial goals, don’t hesitate to take calculated risks with your investments. A well-diversified portfolio can help you reach your objectives without putting all of your eggs in one basket.
- Spending: Adopting a “just enough” mindset doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy life now. Allocate a portion of your budget to discretionary spending, allowing you to engage in activities and experiences that bring you joy.
Achieving balance in financial planning means understanding that having “just enough” can be as good as having plenty saved up. By adopting a mindset of “just enough” and focusing on the areas of our lives that truly matter, we can create a financial plan to live a fulfilling and enjoyable life while still working towards our long-term goals.