Nik Trainin - Financial Adviser

Last week, I had the privilege of attending the AIA Peak Performance Summit held in Christchurch, an annual event organized by AIA in New Zealand to empower and support financial advisers in achieving overall well-being-physically, mentally, and professionally.

It was a fantastic opportunity to connect with financial advisers from all corners of New Zealand, engage in knowledge-sharing, draw insights from seasoned professionals, and explore innovative approaches to better serve my clients.

Interestingly, the primary focus of the summit wasn't solely on financial products or services; instead, it centered on the concept of a balanced lifestyle. The theme was clear: plan well, eat well, move well, and think well.

This profound emphasis made me pause and reflect on ensuring all these aspects thrive. It underscored that true success isn't attainable if these elements are neglected or underprioritized.

Moreover, this experience reaffirmed my unwavering commitment to HOLISTIC Financial Planning, even though it may present challenges. When we step back and view our lives as a complete picture, we understand that finances are just one piece of the intricate puzzle. We must integrate financial health with physical, mental, and emotional well-being to achieve genuine well-being and fulfillment. It's not always an easy path, but it is undeniably the most rewarding one.

In the grand scheme of life, remember that our financial well-being is interconnected with our overall wellness. By embracing this holistic approach, we can build a more resilient and fulfilling future for ourselves and those we serve.

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I hear this a lot. “I don’t have time to budget” This is used as a seemingly reasonable excuse to not budget at all. I want to break this down to show that you can have time to budget if you’re clear about what to do and that it is an essential part of your ‘financial hygiene’.

Set yourself up for success with the following steps

1. Set Clear Goals: Set a goal. You wouldn't plan anything else without a goal. Your budget is no different. Whether that be a house or a trip to Bali, write it down and create a timeline

2. Automate, Automate, Automate: Let technology be your ally. Set up automatic transfers to your savings and investment accounts. This way, money quietly slips into your financial goals without noticing. It's like setting up a direct route to your dreams.

3. Mini Money Dates: Just like scheduling time for a workout, set aside small pockets of time for your finances. Maybe during your morning coffee or while waiting for dinner to cook. These mini-money dates help you stay connected with your financial progress without overwhelming your schedule.

4. Simplify and Consolidate: Juggling multiple accounts can be overwhelming. Consider consolidating accounts to streamline your financial life. It's like decluttering your financial closet – easier to find what you need and manage everything in one place.

5. Prioritise Debt Management: Taming debt can free up resources for your goals. List your debts and focus on paying off the high-interest ones first. Think of it as shedding unnecessary weight to move faster toward your financial aspirations.

6. Get Professional Support: A financial advisor can create a tailored plan for your busy lifestyle. Think of it as hiring a guide for your financial journey, someone who knows the inside-out terrain.

Facing your financial goals and creating a plan is the first step to creating financial freedom!