What’s Your Why? Setting Life Goals and Creating a Financial Plan
Setting long-term financial goals is crucial for a secure and fulfilling retirement. However, before determining when you can retire and how much you need, it is essential to know exactly what you want to do with your life. What is your vision for your future, starting right now?
While financial goals are important, the most significant long-term goal has nothing to do with money. Knowing what is truly important to you is the foundation for achieving the life you desire. Your vision determines everything you need to do to make that life a reality.
Setting Your Vision
Setting a vision for your life is no small task, but there are questions you can ask yourself to make it easier. Consider the following:
- What brings meaning to your life?
- What gives you a sense of purpose?
- What values do you hold dear?
- How do you want to spend your time each day?
- Where do you want to live?
As you reflect on these questions, remember that your vision doesn’t have to be fixed. It can evolve and change over different phases of your life. What matters is that you have a clear understanding of what is important to you.
The Meaning of Life
Defining the meaning of life is a deeply personal and philosophical question. As Joseph Campbell said, “The meaning of life is whatever you ascribe it to be.” Each person has their own individual plot, like a unique novel.
Choose what is important to you. For some, happiness is the ultimate goal, while others find meaning and purpose in helping others, learning, or achieving personal feats. There is no right or wrong answer; it is about discovering what resonates with you.
Identifying Your Values
Values are fundamental beliefs that motivate your actions and guide your decision-making. They are the compass that helps you set priorities and make choices aligned with what matters most to you.
You may already have a good intuitive sense of your values, or you may benefit from evaluating a list of values and prioritizing them. Some examples of values include authenticity, balance, friendship, kindness, truth, love, respect, honesty, integrity, adventure, consistency, courage, and open-mindedness.
By identifying your values, you can ensure that your actions and financial decisions align with what truly matters to you.
Designing Your Perfect Average Day
While special experiences are important, your day-to-day existence plays a significant role in your overall happiness. Define how you would like to spend an average day of your life. Consider the daily habits, responsibilities, and activities that bring you joy and fulfillment.
Additionally, don’t forget to include those special experiences and trips you want to have in your life’s vision. Whether it’s scaling a mountain, volunteering abroad, or celebrating milestones with loved ones, these experiences can add richness and fulfillment to your life.
Finding Your Why
The “5 Whys” technique, developed by the founder of Toyota in the 1930s, is a powerful tool for problem-solving and goal-setting. By repeatedly asking “why,” you can uncover the underlying motivations and reasons behind your goals.
When it comes to setting financial goals and planning for retirement, understanding your “why” is crucial. It gives purpose and meaning to your financial decisions and helps you stay committed to your long-term vision.
Remember, setting financial goals is not just about the numbers. It’s about aligning your financial plan with your life goals and values. By knowing your vision, values, and motivations, you can create a financial plan that supports the life you want to live.
