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“A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” – Confucious

This ancient proverb rings true however what is not mentioned is that you need to know what direction you have to head out in initially.

Without a proper roadmap you can find yourself wandering aimlessly, taking steps that do not bring you closer to the desired destination.

This principle works in the world of finance as well.

Without proper direction we may never reach our financial goals.

I received the following submission from a reader who wanted to give insight on shaping your financial roadmap so you can indeed start off in the right direction.

[Disclaimer: I have no financial relationship with the author.]

 

 

When it comes to managing our finances, many of us, especially those who are self-employed, don’t always keep to a plan.

We may be putting money into a retirement plan, but our finances are typically unorganized.

Financial planning is beneficial to almost everyone.

We are far more likely to achieve our objectives if we have a financial roadmap, whether we want to get married and have a family, need to prepare for education, or want to retire to a warmer location.

A financial roadmap is what you need to know where you are financially right now, where you should be going, and what you need to do to navigate the path to financial success easily.

This way, you’ll be able to make wise financial decisions that will help you reach your life objectives. What should you do?

• Organize yourself

Examine your overall assets, any obligations, and your spending patterns.

This will assist you in better comprehending your financial situation.

• Establish Objectives

Next, consider your financial objectives.

What do you hope to achieve this year and in the future?

• Evaluate Your Budget 

You should review your budget on a frequent basis since costs might vary and you may be able to identify areas where you can save money.

• Establish a Savings Plan

Make a strategy to save for an emergency fund, short and long-term savings, retirement, and other goals.

• Pay off Your Debts

Consider concrete tactics for at least reducing your debts. You can even apply for an unsecured or secured loan to get rid of the debts ASAP.

 

A decent road map can help you find your way, and it can assist you in determining:

• Where you are financially right now
• Which way should you be going
• What it may take to get to your destination

 

After all, you wouldn’t go on a voyage through a new place without assistance.

A map, a compass, and even a guide are all useful tools.

Your financial future is too crucial to risk.

10 Things to Think About for Designing Financial Roadmap

1.    Your objectives

What do you want or expect to be doing in 10, 20, and 30 years?

Remember that you may be living in retirement for a longer period of time than you expect.

2.    Your life expectancy

People are living longer lives, which means you could live into your 90s.

Maintain a positive attitude.

3.    Your earnings and costs

Determine how much you can contribute to your plan based on your existing and projected income and living costs.

4. Your assets

Create a list of all of your assets, including stocks, bonds, and other investments in your portfolio, as well as savings accounts, retirement plans, and the equity in your house.

5.    Your lifestyle

Examine your current lifestyle and consider what you might desire or need in the future.

How much would this way of life set you back?

6.    Your current saving strategy

How much money are you currently putting aside?

Is it sufficient to help you support your future?

When do you think you’ll be able to start utilizing your savings to cover living expenses?

7.    Your investment risk tolerance

Are you confident with the amount of risk you’re taking with your investments?

Is it in need of revision to better represent your current circumstances or the status of the economy?

8.    Your retirement income

Examine any retirement income you may have, such as Social Security payments, dividends, a pension, or other sources of income.

9.    Your estate plan

An estate plan, rather than just a will, may help your loved ones by easing the load on them, ensuring that your assets are dispersed according to your wishes, lowering taxes, and planning for future personal care and health care requirements.

10. Your emergency fund

How do you prepare to cover the costs of a flooded basement, a prolonged illness, or the loss of a job?

A financial road map acts as a GPS for your finances, indicating where you are and how to get there.

A financial road plan is a must if you want to make sure your finances are on the correct track and that you’re taking the necessary measures to meet your long-term objectives.

How to Design a Financial Roadmap?

• Start with the final destination in mind

Let’s begin with the broad picture. What is the long-term strategy for your finances?

What do you want your financial life to look like in a year, five years, and 10 years?

Once you have a good idea of where you want to travel, you can start planning your road map, which will include all of the objectives you’ll need to meet along the route.

• Form a strategy

Determine the steps necessary to achieve the objectives you set forth in step one.

Who is responsible for what and when?

This is an important component of the road map since it describes how you will achieve your objectives.

• Financial management

Your road map will show you where you’re heading, but it’ll be up to your cash flow to see if you can get there.

Cash flow planning, as well as other key financial concerns such as retirement planning, estate planning, and tax preparation, may be handled by your Chartered Professional Accountant.

• Expect some detours as well

There will be some bumps along the road on every journey.

Prepare a list of possible hazards and how you’ll handle them, as well as a reserve fund for slower periods and unanticipated events.

• Monitor your progress

Monitor your progress to see if you’re on track or if you need to make any changes in light of the changing financial situation.

As you accomplish important milestones, give yourself a pat on the back.

Enjoy your well-deserved success after you’ve arrived at your target.

You may set your sights on a new objective when you’re ready.

The financial road map is a continuing journey that is best addressed as an essential element of how you manage your finances on a continual basis, rather than as a one-time exercise.

When done correctly, it can assist you in determining the fastest route between your current location and your desired destination.

 

 

 

Author Bio:

Robert McMillen

Robert is an entrepreneur, finance professional, consultant, and passionate writer at Instant Loan Online. For many years using his industry knowledge and experience he has helped his clients to create more wealth and reduce costs.

 

Note:

If you are in search of financial help, please consider enlisting the service of any of the sponsors of this blog who I feel are part of the “good guys and gals of finance.”

Even a steadfast DIY’er can sometimes gain benefit from the occasional professional input.

 

 

-Xrayvsn