It was a crisp, windy, fall afternoon when I was encouraged to take an old canoe for a spin at Candle Lake. As novice as I was, I wondered ‘how hard is it to paddle a canoe?’ Turns out, harder than you could imagine. As I zigzagged across the water—never quite where I intended, and certainly never aware how much I would later relate wealth planning to my adventures in my canoe. Both are full of surprises, occasionally off course, a little scary at times and always more fun with a sense of humour.
Before I set off, my only goal was “don’t tip the canoe.” In financial planning, aiming a little higher is recommended. Whether you’re saving for retirement, a new home, or that dream canoe (with cup holders, naturally), having a destination keeps you focused—even when your paddle skills are questionable.
About halfway across, I encountered a hidden rock right in our path. I attempted a graceful maneuver, which ended in an accidental scratch and soaked snacks. Financially speaking, obstacles—unexpected bills, market dips, or a sudden craving for a high-end paddle—pop up when least expected. The trick is to adjust your plan and maybe keep your lunch in a waterproof bag.
After a spirited adventure, I learned that having a good understanding of the ‘How?’ is essential, and a trusted partner in the canoe makes everything much easier. Wealth planning works the same way; collaborating with a trusted advisor helps keep you upright and heading in the right direction.
Sure, reaching your goals is great. And important to remember there’s joy in every milestone—like the moment I realized grabbing the gunnels doesn’t provide any stability. Celebrate progress, laugh off your missteps, and remember that wealth isn’t just about numbers; it’s about the stories you collect along the way.
- Set clear, ambitious goals.
- Stay adaptable—life will throw rocks in your way.
- Work with a trusted crew.
- Celebrate the ride—even if it’s a bit unstable and splashy at times.
So, whether you’re plotting your financial future or just trying not to tip over, build yourself a solid plan, including a dash of flexibility, and a good sense of humour. And you will most likely reach your destination in one piece and more importantly, enjoy the trip to get there.
Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.”
—Helen Keller
