Wealth can, and should, be a tool to enhance our quality of life. But a vital part of financial planning is recognising the complex relationship between our three primary assets: time, money, and health.
In my experience, true wealth lies in how you balance these three resources. Here’s how you can approach each one thoughtfully to foster a fulfilling, resilient lifestyle.
Time: our irreplaceable asset
Time is unique because it’s the only resource we cannot replenish or expand. Despite this, we often underestimate its value and sacrifice it in the pursuit of wealth, or underestimate the health impacts of an unbalanced life.
As a wealth manager I’ve seen people work tirelessly, delaying leisure or family time with the expectation that they’ll be able to “buy back” time later. Yet, when they finally reach their financial goals, they often find that time is no longer on their side, or their health has suffered as a result of years of neglect.
This leads to an important perspective shift
Rather than viewing time purely as something to be used to make money, consider seeing it as a core part of your life’s “investment portfolio.”
Managing your time well means building in hours for family, relaxation, exercise, and personal growth – investing in these activities pays the dividends of fulfilment, mental wellness, and stronger relationships. Rather than saving for an indefinite “one day,” balance requires that we integrate life goals into our daily and yearly schedules.
Money: a tool, not a goal
Many of us view money as the endgame of success, but in truth, it’s simply a tool for achieving a desired quality of life. Money gives us the luxury of choice, access to experiences, and financial security, all of which can contribute to happiness and well-being.
However, the accumulation of wealth should not come at the cost of time or health. I’ve observed that clients who are more intentional about how they use their financial resources – those who prioritise spending money in ways that genuinely align with their values and goals – tend to be more satisfied with their lives overall.
One way to do this is through values-based spending
For example, investing in experiences such as travel, education, or even a hobby, often yields a greater sense of fulfilment than material purchases. Another important focus is prioritising financial security. By achieving a level of financial independence, you gain the freedom to make choices without being entirely dependent on a regular salary, allowing you to invest more time in pursuits you enjoy, rather than feeling compelled to work for financial survival.
Health: the foundation of wealth
Health is often the most neglected component in the time-money-health triad, even though without physical and mental well-being, even the most abundant financial wealth means little.
The harsh reality is that health has its limits, and many health issues become harder to reverse or manage with age. As a wealth manager, I encourage you to view investments in health as essential.
Investments in health include regular medical check-ups, but they are not all financial. Dedicating time to physical activity and mental relaxation are also important. Health-conscious lifestyle changes, such as a balanced diet, exercise, and stress management practices may seem unrelated to financial planning, but good health allows you the quality of life to enjoy your wealth more fully and for longer periods.
Finding balance: practical tips
Balancing these three resources starts with a simple but profound shift: viewing time, money, and health as interdependent rather than separate entities. Here are some tips to maintain a healthy equilibrium:
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Define and prioritise your personal goals
Clarify your life priorities – family, travel, career, or physical health for example – to guide how much time and money you allocate to each area.
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Plan for time freedom
Consider strategies that may provide flexibility, such as building passive income streams or reaching financial independence early. Flexibility with work allows you to spend more time on health and family pursuits.
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Invest in your health
Allocate funds toward wellness, including preventive health care, nutritious food, and stress-relieving experiences. Medical aid and wellness programs are wise financial and health decisions that mitigate potential high medical costs down the road.
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Measure your success in fulfilment, not just money
Financial gains are important, but ideally, they align with your overarching life goals. Success is not just monetary; it’s about feeling fulfilled, connected, and healthy.
How much money is enough? Perhaps it’s time to assess how you are balancing your time, money and health equation to create the life you want to get up for every day. Check in with your Netto Invest CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional and schedule an appointment to help you keep your long-term financial planning on track.
By Morné Bezuidenhout, CFP®
B.Com LLB
