Holistic wealth planning isn’t just about managing your finances—it’s about shaping your life, understanding your journey, and aligning your resources with your purpose. At the heart of this approach lies a powerful truth: before you plan your money, you must plan your life.
When we closely examine a life plan, we uncover a profound psychological journey that mirrors Abraham Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs. This hierarchy represents the stages of human development, which Richard Barrett refers to as levels of consciousness or psychological development. Understanding this journey allows us to guide clients in transitioning from a focus on basic needs to a more fulfilling existence that honours their true potential.
The Journey from Ego to Soul
Life often begins in what can be described as the ego stages:
- Survival – seeking to meet our physical needs.
- Safety – nurturing our emotional security, often through relationships.
- Security – building self-esteem and confidence through mental assurance.
For most people, the majority of life revolves around these stages. In fact, it’s estimated that 90% of people spend 90% of their time here. While necessary and valid, this focus can leave us feeling stuck—constantly chasing, yet never fully at peace. It’s like living in a self-imposed version of “hell,” fuelled by worry, fear, and endless striving.
But there’s hope. Beyond the ego lies the transition to the soul, where we find deeper meaning. This is where life shifts from merely surviving to thriving. Here, we discover:
- Significance through self-awareness,
- Connection with others,
- Contribution to the world.
Crossing this bridge can be intimidating. The ego resists change, fearing the loss of control. Yet, it is on the other side that we experience a profound sense of freedom and purpose.
Supporting the Journey as a Guide, Not a Saviour
As mentors in holistic wealth planning, our role isn’t to push or pull clients through these transitions. Instead, we stand beside them—listening, guiding, and providing clarity when they’re ready to take the next step. The decision to act and grow lies entirely with the individual; we can’t do it for them. But we can make the path less daunting and help them see their potential at every stage.
A Down-to-Earth Metaphor: Moving Beyond Our Personal “Hell”
To better understand this journey, let’s reframe the idea of “hell” from a spiritual lens into a practical metaphor for everyday life. Hell isn’t a fiery pit—it’s the inner turmoil we feel when disconnected from our true selves. It’s the worry, fear, and frustration that arise when we focus solely on material success or external validation.
Think of the ego as the devil on your shoulder, whispering doubts and fuelling the illusion of separation. Its grip can feel all-encompassing, but it isn’t permanent. When we acknowledge these feelings as part of our human experience, they become opportunities for growth rather than barriers.
Holistic planning helps shift the focus from fear and survival to understanding and empowerment. By embracing self-awareness and aligning our choices with our values, we build a life that reflects our true essence—not just the demands of the world around us.
Why Holistic Wealth Planning Matters
At the Academy of Life Planning, we believe in planning for enough—enough financial security to support your dreams, enough emotional resilience to face challenges, and enough clarity to navigate life’s transitions. This isn’t about chasing perfection; it’s about creating balance and finding purpose.
Our approach acknowledges that money is only one piece of the puzzle. True wealth comes from aligning your resources with your goals, values, and aspirations. By focusing on the why behind your decisions, we help you build a plan that supports both your material and emotional well-being.
Taking the First Step
Every journey begins with a single step. If you’re ready to explore how holistic wealth planning can transform your life, we’re here to guide you. Whether you’re seeking clarity, reassurance, or a complete shift in perspective, we’ll meet you where you are—supporting you every step of the way.
Remember: planning your money is important, but planning your life is essential. Together, we can uncover your path to significance, connection, and contribution. It’s not just about what you achieve—it’s about how you live. Let’s get started.
Academy of Life Planning 