When we think of financial planning, it’s easy to focus on immediate concerns—how to save on taxes, how to invest wisely, or how to secure a comfortable retirement. These are important questions, and it’s natural to seek straightforward answers. However, what if I told you that financial planning could offer you so much more? What if it could be a journey to creating wealth not just in your bank account, but in every area of your life—mind, body, heart, and spirit?
Holistic financial planning is about doing just that. It’s about recognising that wealth isn’t just measured in pounds and pence, but in the quality of your relationships, the strength of your health, the richness of your experiences, and the depth of your purpose. It’s about creating a life that’s not just financially secure but also deeply fulfilling.
At any point in life, we can choose to make changes. Sometimes, this decision is triggered by a significant event—a career change, the birth of a child, the loss of a loved one, or simply a moment of reflection where we ask ourselves, “Who am I, and why am I here?” These moments are invitations to step back and look at the bigger picture of our lives. They’re opportunities to embrace a more comprehensive approach to financial planning—one that aligns with our values, our dreams, and our sense of purpose.
Yet, when presented with the opportunity for holistic financial planning, it’s common to hesitate. You might think, “I just want to know how to reduce my tax bill,” or “I’m only interested in making sure I have enough for retirement.” These are valid concerns, and they will be addressed. But what if, like Sir Christopher Ball, who found renewed purpose and vitality later in life, you could use this moment to explore a broader, potentially life-changing opportunity?
Sir Christopher Ball, at 89 years old, is on a mission to live to 100 and run a marathon on his 100th birthday. At the heart of his approach to longevity is a positive mindset, which he believes is as crucial, if not more so, than diet and exercise. Christopher is a co-founder of the Oxford Longevity Project and emphasises the importance of surrounding oneself with loving relationships, staying active, and avoiding the “grumpy old man” mentality, often referred to as the “Victor Meldrew syndrome.”
After a successful career and a life-changing heart attack in his late 70s, Christopher embraced positivity, taking responsibility for his health and well-being. He advises setting future goals, no matter your age, and encourages a mindset of being “time-rich” to reduce stress. His approach to life includes a vegan diet, resisting fleeting pleasures for lasting happiness, and regularly doing kind acts for others.
Christopher also stresses the importance of fostering meaningful relationships, accepting life as it is, and living simply, in tune with natural rhythms. His daily routine includes a refreshing sauna/shower, and he advocates taking a moment each day to relax, using a positive mantra to clear the mind.
Ultimately, Sir Christopher’s message is about the power of positivity, responsibility, and simplicity in leading a long, fulfilling life. His approach is accessible, actionable, and rooted in the belief that everyone can improve their quality of life by adopting these practices.
Sir Christopher didn’t just focus on a single goal—he embraced the idea of living fully in every aspect of his life. He recognised that a positive mindset, strong relationships, and a sense of purpose were just as vital to his well-being as any financial strategy. His story reminds us that true wealth is holistic; it’s about being rich in time, in love, in health, and in happiness.
So, when you consider financial planning, I encourage you to think beyond the immediate question. Imagine a life where your finances support not just your security, but your dreams. Imagine being financially prepared for the future while also living fully in the present, with a plan that nurtures your body, sharpens your mind, warms your heart, and uplifts your spirit.
Holistic financial planning is about taking that broader view. It’s about asking not just, “How can I save more money?” but “How can I live a richer, more meaningful life?” It’s about making choices today that will serve you in every area of your life, for years to come.
Embracing this approach doesn’t mean you ignore the practicalities—far from it. It means you integrate them into a larger vision, ensuring that your financial decisions are in harmony with your overall well-being. It’s a way to not only secure your financial future but to enhance your life in ways you may never have considered.
So, next time you think about financial planning, I invite you to consider the bigger picture. Let’s explore how we can work together to create a plan that doesn’t just answer your immediate questions, but also enriches your entire life—mind, body, heart, and spirit. The opportunity for transformation is there, waiting for you to take the first step. Let’s take it together.
Academy of Life Planning 