Written by: Derek Majkowski. Any opinions are those of Derek Majkowski and not necessarily those of RJFS or Raymond James.
“The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience.” – Eleanor Roosevelt
Whether we like it or not, money does play a significant role in our lives. To the extent we define and weigh that role is different for everyone depending on many variables. In the end however, you really cannot take your money with you. Well, at least I am unaware of any situations where taking it along is at all useful..
Given that fact, we find ourselves spending a lot of time making sure people connect the dots between one’s money and their life, or even beyond their life. Money is obviously an important tool in addressing life’s goals and beyond, but it is not the only thing. Money and its influence can sometimes also distract, or get in the way of life.
During the discussions we have with clients, and regardless of where one is in their respective life financially, we all want the magic answer to - “What will I need, when, and for how long?”.. We spend a good bit of time dissecting and preparing for all of the variables that can support or inhibit one’s respective financial progress and estimated lifetime goals.
All of these projections are then pegged to some actuarial life expectancy.
Life however, does not care. It is unpredictable, and can create pleasure or chaos in a moment’s notice. All the planning and preparation can turn on a dime, and it is important to keep all of this in perspective. We never know when something outside of our control can have an impact on our life. This can be something good or bad, perpetual or very permanent.
That is why, despite all the planning, we strongly support and encourage a healthy lifestyle and thoughtful focus on oneself. Without sounding too cliché, we really do only get one life, and in order to get the most out of life, it’s important to take care of one’s mind, body, and soul.
There are too many things that can change someone’s course, and doing the best for yourself gives one a better chance to enjoy a lot more of life and one’s life-long planning. We prefer focusing on life-long planning, but if we don’t stop to care for ourselves, well then someone else may be having a richer experience, and our plan really won’t matter. Nor will the money.