One of the most common financial dilemmas I hear is, “How do you strike the right balance between spending money to enjoy life today and saving enough to ensure a comfortable tomorrow?”

Many Canadians struggle with this question—especially as the rising cost of living makes it harder to do both. But while there’s no crystal ball to tell you exactly what age you will live to and therefore how much you’ll need for retirement, the good news is a blended approach—one that allows you to live well now while preparing for your future—is possible with thoughtful financial planning.

The tension between spending and saving is natural. On one hand, we all want to experience life, travel, enjoy hobbies, and spend time with loved ones while we’re healthy and able. On the other, we know the future will come sooner than we think, and financial security doesn’t happen by accident. The key is to create a plan that acknowledges both priorities rather than forcing you to choose between them. A financial plan isn’t just a retirement savings blueprint, it’s a........

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