Expats: Wealth and Responsibility — A Parallel to Health and Fitness
As I get ready for an early morning gym session in Dubai, the day is well set for 2 of my biggest passions: my health and my role as a successful financial coach. As someone extremely committed to both, I see very similar parallels.
Training Regimes and Financial Plans: Mapping Out Progress
Every expat that likes fitness knows the thrill of beating their own record. Whether it’s shaving a minute off a 10k run, mastering progressive overload, reducing their bodyfat % or pushing the boundaries with blood work, these benchmarks motivate us. They’re our tangible markers that we’re on the right track and improving.
Now, let’s flip the coin. How do we, especially as expats, benchmark our financial progress? Do we have financial ‘PBs’ or ‘progressive overloads’? Have we sat down, and drawn out our financial path? If not, it’s about time we do.
Misplaced Priorities: My Observation
I’ve had countless sessions coaching dedicated individuals on their financials who wouldn’t miss a gym or training session come rain or shine. Yet, when it comes to charting out their financial futures or even simply sending back a life insurance form, weeks would pass by. I recall working with a client, who could tell you the nutritional breakdown of his last meal but faltered when faced with the specifics of his financial investments. There was an evident disconnect between his discipline for body fitness and wealth and responsibility fitness.
The True Essence of Fitness and Wealth
For all the glamour and ostentation that wealth might bring, its real value is resilience. It’s the peace of mind when you hit the bed each night, knowing you’re likely cushioned against life’s unpredictable turns.
Likewise, fitness isn’t just about sculpted abs or bulging biceps; it’s about holistic health and the assurance that your body can most likely weather any health storms.
As expats, this resilience takes center stage. Will your finances withstand a sudden job loss, health scare or an unplanned relocation?
Drawing the Parallels for a Richer Expat Life
Living in the Middle East offers more than just sun, activities and the best restaurants. It’s an invitation to grow — physically, mentally, and financially.
As you enhance your body and mind, don’t let your financial fitness lag. Every squat, or mile that you tackle, let it also remind you of a financial goal you need to achieve.
To all expats, let’s ensure that our time in the Middle East isn’t just about the aesthetic allure of wealth or fitness. Let’s think bigger, making each day count towards a future that’s as robust as our present. As we think about the next workout, let’s also allocate the same time to our financial plans and set them in motion, ensuring our today and tomorrow are equally resilient.
About Mike Coady
Mike Coady is an expat expert based in Dubai and is on hand to help with all of the above and more.
Mike is an award-winning money coach and industry leader in the financial sector.
Qualified to UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) standards, a member of the Chartered Insurance Institute, a Fellow of the Institute of Sales Management (FISM), a Fellow of the Association of Professional Sales (F.APS), a Fellow of the Institute of Directors (FIoD) and featured as a highly qualified Financial Adviser in Which Financial Adviser.
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Blog published by Mike Coady.