How to Start Saving When Life Already Feels Expensive

There’s a phrase I hear often lately:

“I want to save… but everything already feels expensive.”

And honestly, that feeling is understandable.

Between groceries, housing costs, interest rates, childcare, transportation, and everyday life, many people feel stretched thin — even when they’re working hard and doing everything “right.”

Because of that, saving money can sometimes feel overwhelming. Or impossible.

But I want to gently offer a different perspective:

Saving doesn’t have to start big to matter.

At YourStyle Financial, we often remind people that financial progress is usually built through small, consistent steps — not dramatic overnight changes.

The Pressure to “Do More”

One of the biggest reasons people avoid saving is because they think they need to start with large amounts.

A few hundred dollars a month.
A perfectly organized budget.
A full financial plan already figured out.

But that pressure can actually stop people from starting at all.

The truth is:

• Small contributions still build momentum
• Consistency matters more than perfection
• Starting late is still better than not starting

Even setting aside a modest amount regularly can begin building confidence alongside savings.

Start With an Emergency Fund

Before focusing heavily on investing, many people benefit from first building a small emergency fund.

Think of it as a financial buffer zone for when life gets difficult.

Unexpected car repairs, appliance breakdowns, medical expenses, reduced work hours — these things happen. And when there’s no cushion in place, even small emergencies can quickly turn into stress or debt.

An emergency fund doesn’t need to be huge to be helpful.

Even starting with a small goal can create peace of mind and breathing room over time.

Pay Yourself First

One of the simplest — and most effective — saving strategies is something called “pay yourself first.”

Instead of waiting until the end of the month to save whatever might be left over, you move money into savings as soon as you get paid.

Why does this matter?

Because for most people, there often isn’t leftover money at the end of the month.

Automating savings, even in small amounts, helps remove the pressure of constantly making the decision manually.

That might look like:

• An automatic TFSA contribution every payday
• A scheduled transfer into an emergency fund
• A small recurring investment contribution

Consistency is usually more important than the amount itself.

Track Where Your Money Is Actually Going

Sometimes the challenge isn’t income alone — it’s money quietly leaving without us noticing.

Subscription services are a great example.

Streaming platforms, unused memberships, apps, delivery services, or recurring charges can slowly add up over time, especially when multiple small expenses are combined.

Taking time to review your monthly spending can help identify:

• subscriptions you no longer use
• duplicate services
• habits that may not align with your priorities anymore

This isn’t about guilt or restriction.

It’s simply about making sure your money is going where you actually want it to go.

Why a TFSA Can Be a Great Starting Point

For many Canadians, a Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA) is one of the most flexible ways to begin saving.

A TFSA allows:

• Tax-free growth on investments
• Tax-free withdrawals
• Flexibility for both short- and long-term goals

That flexibility matters when life feels unpredictable.

Whether you’re saving for:

• emergencies
• travel
• a future home
• retirement
• or simply peace of mind

A TFSA can create room for future choices without locking your money away.

Saving Is Emotional Too

This part matters more than most people realize.

Saving money isn’t only about math.

It’s also about:

• feeling safer
• reducing stress
• creating flexibility
• building confidence in yourself

Even small savings can create emotional breathing room.

And sometimes, that’s where the biggest shift begins.

You Don’t Need to Be Perfect to Start

One of the most common things I hear is:

“I should have started sooner.”

Maybe. But that thought doesn’t help you move forward today.

What matters most is simply beginning from where you are now.

No judgment.
No perfection required.
No “right” timeline.

Just thoughtful steps that fit your life.

A Simple Question to Ask Yourself

Instead of asking:

“How much should I be saving?”

Try asking:

“What amount could I save consistently without creating more pressure?”

That answer is often a much healthier place to begin.

And over time, small consistent habits can grow into something meaningful.

If you’d like help creating a plan that feels realistic for your life today, I’m always happy to have a conversation.

— Samantha

You Don’t Need to Be Wealthy to Start Financial Planning

There’s a common misconception that financial planning is only for people who already “have money.”

People often assume they need:

• a high income
• investments already built up
• a house
• or everything figured out before talking to a financial planner

The truth is, most people don’t start there.

And honestly, waiting until everything feels perfect is usually what delays people from getting started in the first place.

Financial Planning Isn’t About Being Rich

One of the biggest things I’ve noticed in conversations with people my age is how many feel behind financially.

Housing feels expensive.
Groceries are expensive.
Life is expensive.

A lot of people feel like they’re just trying to keep up — and because of that, financial planning starts to feel like something for “later.”

But financial planning isn’t about being wealthy.
It’s about having a direction.

Even small steps can create meaningful momentum over time.

Starting Small Still Matters

One of the biggest advantages anyone can have financially is simply starting earlier.

Not perfectly.
Not aggressively.
Just earlier.

Even something as simple as:

• setting aside $50 a month
• opening a TFSA or FHSA
• or understanding where your money is going

can make a much bigger difference over time than people realize.

The goal isn’t to do everything at once.
It’s to start building habits and structure before life becomes more complicated.

Most People Feel Like They “Should Know More”

This is another thing I hear often:

“I feel like I should understand this already.”

But personal finance isn’t something most people are formally taught.

A lot of people are trying to learn:

• investing
• taxes
• budgeting
• mortgages
• retirement planning

all at the same time — while also managing everyday life.

It’s okay not to know everything.

Financial planning should feel like a conversation, not a test.

Planning Looks Different for Everyone

There’s no single “right” starting point.

For some people, planning means:

• paying down debt
• building emergency savings
• preparing to buy a first home

For others, it’s:

• starting to invest
• protecting their family
• or figuring out long-term goals

Especially in Manitoba, and particularly in farming or small business environments, finances often don’t look neat and predictable. Income can fluctuate. Priorities change. Life changes.

That’s why good planning should be flexible and personal — not one-size-fits-all.

The Biggest Mistake Is Usually Waiting Too Long

A lot of people delay financial decisions because they feel like they need:

• more money
• more confidence
• more certainty

before getting started.

But time is one of the most valuable financial tools available.

The earlier someone begins learning, saving, or investing — even modestly — the more options they usually have later.

You don’t need to have everything figured out to take the first step.

Final Thoughts

Financial planning isn’t about looking wealthy or having a perfect situation.

It’s about understanding where you are today and making decisions that support where you want to go.

That might mean starting small.
It might mean asking questions.
It might simply mean having a conversation.

And that’s okay.

If you’ve been putting off financial planning because you feel like you’re “not there yet,” you’re probably more ready than you think. Let’s chat about that.

• Nico

You Don’t Need to Have It All Figured Out to Start Financial Planning

For many people, financial planning feels like something they should do “once things are more organized.”

Maybe after:

• Paying down more debt
• Earning a higher income
• Buying a home
• Learning more about investing
• Feeling more confident financially

Until then, it’s easy to feel like you’re not quite ready.

But the reality is, most people don’t begin financial planning because they have everything figured out. They begin because they want clarity about what comes next.

And that’s exactly where good financial planning should start.

Financial Planning Isn’t About Being Perfect

One of the biggest misconceptions about working with a financial advisor is the idea that you need to arrive fully prepared.

You don’t.

You don’t need:

• A perfect budget
• A large investment portfolio
• Extensive financial knowledge
• Every document neatly organized

Financial planning isn’t about proving you’ve done everything right. It’s about understanding where you are today and creating a path forward that supports what’s important to you.

That process starts with a conversation — not perfection.

Why So Many People Delay Financial Planning

For some, it’s uncertainty.

For others, it’s intimidation.

Many people worry they’ll feel judged for:

• Not saving enough
• Starting “too late”
• Carrying debt
• Not understanding financial terminology

Others simply feel overwhelmed by the amount of information online and don’t know where to begin.

These concerns are more common than you might think.

The truth is, financial planning should reduce stress — not add to it.

The First Step Is Often Simpler Than Expected

At YourStyle Financial, planning begins by understanding the person, not just the numbers.

That means conversations around:

• What’s currently on your mind
• What you want life to look like over time
• What concerns you may have
• What’s important to you

There’s no expectation to have everything mapped out before reaching out.

Often, clarity develops gradually through thoughtful conversations and small, manageable steps.

Progress Matters More Than Timing

Many people assume they’ve waited too long to start planning.

In reality, building momentum is often more important than starting perfectly.

Small decisions made consistently over time can create meaningful long-term change:

• Creating savings habits
• Understanding cash flow
• Structuring accounts properly
• Reviewing protection needs
• Clarifying retirement goals

Financial planning doesn’t need to happen all at once.

It’s a process of building confidence and understanding over time.

A Comfortable Approach to Planning

Everyone approaches financial decisions differently.

Some people want detailed explanations and regular meetings. Others prefer a quieter, more gradual process with time to reflect before making decisions.

There’s no single “correct” way to approach planning.

A good financial advisor understands that comfort matters. The process should feel approachable, collaborative, and aligned with your personality — not rushed or overwhelming.

Especially for individuals or couples who are naturally more introverted or thoughtful, having a calm and supportive planning experience can make all the difference.

What’s Important to You?

At the centre of financial planning is a simple but important question:

What’s important to you?

Not what someone else is doing.
Not what social media says you should prioritize.
Not what feels urgent in the moment.

Just you.

Whether your focus is:

• Stability
• Flexibility
• Family
• Retirement
• Reducing stress
• Feeling more organized

Financial planning should support those goals in a way that feels manageable and meaningful.

You Can Start Before You Feel “Ready”

Most people don’t begin financial planning because they suddenly feel fully prepared.

They begin because they want guidance, clarity, and a better understanding of where they’re headed.

You don’t need to have everything figured out before starting that conversation.

If you’ve been thinking about planning but weren’t sure if it was the “right time,” that’s okay.

Sometimes the best first step is simply having a place to start.

If you’d like to talk through your situation in a calm, no-pressure environment, you’re always welcome to reach out.

– Sean

What Should You Do With Your Tax Refund? A Thoughtful Way to Decide

For many people, receiving a tax refund can feel like a small sense of relief. Sometimes even a reward.

But it can also bring a quiet question:

“What should I do with this?”

Before we look at options, I think it’s helpful to gently reframe what a tax refund actually is.

Your Tax Refund Isn’t “Extra Money”

A tax refund simply means that over the past year, you paid more tax than you needed to.

In other words, you’ve given the government an interest-free loan — and now it’s being returned to you.

There’s nothing wrong with that. For some, it can even be a helpful way to “force” savings.

But it’s also an opportunity to reflect:

Would you prefer to have more control over that money throughout the year?

If so, there are strategies we can explore to help ensure you’re paying exactly what you owe — not more, not less.

For now, though, let’s focus on how to use your refund in a way that supports what’s important to you.

Option 1: Paying Down Debt (Creating Breathing Room)

If you’re carrying debt — especially higher-interest debt like credit cards or unsecured loans — using your refund to reduce that balance can be one of the most impactful decisions you make.

Why?

• You reduce the amount of interest you’re paying over time
• You free up future cash flow
• You create a sense of relief and flexibility

It’s not always the most exciting use of money — but it can be one of the most meaningful.

Sometimes financial progress doesn’t feel like a leap forward. It feels like a little more space to breathe.

Option 2: Contributing to Your TFSA (Building Quiet Growth)

If your debt is manageable or already under control, your Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA) can be a powerful next step.

A TFSA allows your money to grow tax-free, which means:

• No tax on investment growth
• No tax when you withdraw
• Flexibility to use the funds when you need them

This makes it ideal for both short-term and long-term goals — whether that’s building an emergency fund, saving for a home, or simply creating future options.

Even a single contribution, like your tax refund, can begin that process.

Over time, it’s not about timing the market perfectly — it’s about allowing your money the opportunity to grow.

A Gentle Balance: It Doesn’t Have to Be One or the Other

Sometimes the best approach isn’t choosing between debt repayment or saving.

It can be a thoughtful combination of both.

For example:

• Using part of your refund to reduce debt
• Setting aside a portion in your TFSA

There’s no perfect formula — just the approach that feels right for your situation.

Looking Ahead: A Different Way to Approach Taxes

If receiving a large refund happens year after year, it may be worth revisiting how your taxes are structured.

At YourStyle Financial, we often help clients look at ways to:

• Adjust tax withholdings
• Use tax-efficient strategies
• Align contributions with their broader financial plan

The goal isn’t to eliminate refunds entirely — it’s to ensure your money is working for you throughout the year, not just when it’s returned.

A Simple Question to End With

When you look at your tax refund, try asking yourself:

“What would feel most supportive for me right now?”

More breathing room?
More growth?
A bit of both?

There’s no wrong answer — just the one that aligns with your life today.

And if you’d like help deciding, I’m always here for a conversation.

— Samantha

The Hidden Cost of “Doing Nothing” With Your Money

It’s something I hear often:

“At least my money is safe in the bank.”

And I understand where that comes from.
There’s comfort in knowing your savings aren’t going up and down with the markets.

But what’s often missed is this:

Doing nothing with your money isn’t neutral.
Over time, it can quietly cost you more than you think.

Inflation Is Always Working in the Background

Even when inflation feels “low” — say 2–3% — it’s still reducing what your money can actually do for you over time.

A simple way to think about it:

• $50,000 today does not equal $50,000 worth of lifestyle in the future
• The cost of everyday things — groceries, fuel, housing — gradually increases
• Your money, if it’s sitting still, does not keep up

Nothing dramatic happens overnight.
But over years, the difference becomes meaningful.

The Opportunity Cost of Staying in Cash

Keeping money in a savings account might feel like the safest choice — but there’s a trade-off.

Historically:

• Long-term market returns have averaged roughly 6–10% annually
• Savings accounts often return 1–2% (if that)

That gap matters more than most people realize.

Here’s a simple example:

• $10,000 invested at 7% for 25 years → ~$54,000
• $10,000 in cash at 2% for 25 years → ~$16,400

That’s not about taking unnecessary risk — it’s about understanding what happens when money doesn’t grow.

Time Is the Most Valuable Asset You Have

One of the biggest advantages anyone can have financially is simply starting earlier.

Even small amounts can make a significant difference over time.

To put this into perspective, here’s an example assuming a 7% annual rate of return over the long term:

Example:

Scenario A: Start Small, Then Increase Later

• $50/month from age 25–35 (10 years)
• Then $300/month from age 35–65 (30 years)

Results:

• Total contributed: $114,000
• Final value at 65: ~$435,000

Scenario B: Wait, Then Invest More

• $0 from age 25–35
• Then $300/month from age 35–65

Results:

• Total contributed: $108,000
• Final value at 65: ~$365,000

These are hypothetical examples for illustration purposes, and actual returns will vary.

Even though the contributions are similar, the earlier start leads to a noticeably different outcome.

Not because of how much was invested — but because of time.

It’s Not About Taking Big Risks

This isn’t about putting everything into the market or making aggressive decisions.

It’s about balance.

• Keeping some money accessible
• Letting some money grow
• Having a plan that reflects your comfort level and goals

For many people, the biggest risk isn’t volatility — it’s falling behind quietly without realizing it.

Final Thoughts

If your money is sitting in a savings account, you’re not doing anything wrong.

But it’s worth asking:

Is this working as well as it could for me?

Financial planning isn’t about pressure or quick decisions.
It’s about understanding your options and making choices that feel right for you.

If you ever want to talk it through — even just as a second opinion — I’m always happy to listen.

• Nico

How Much Is Enough? $1M, $3M, $5M…

The Question We Get Asked All the Time

“How much do I need to retire?”

It’s one of the most common questions we hear — especially from people here in Winnipeg.

And almost every time, the conversation starts the same way:

“Is $1 million enough?”
“What about $3 million?”
“Should I be aiming for $5 million?”

It’s a fair question. But the honest answer is always the same:

It depends on the life you want to live.

The Problem With Chasing a Number

There’s a lot of noise out there about “the magic retirement number.”

The reality?
A number on its own doesn’t mean much.

$1 million could be more than enough for one person — and nowhere near enough for another.

Why?

Because retirement isn’t just a financial milestone.
It’s a lifestyle decision.

Start With This Instead: What’s Important to You?

Before we talk about dollars, we ask better questions:

• What does your day-to-day life look like in retirement?
• Do you want to travel? Stay close to home? Help your kids or grandkids?
• Are you planning to downsize — or upgrade your lifestyle?
• How long do you want your money to last?

Because once we understand that, we can map out the number.

Not guess it. Not estimate it broadly.
Actually plan it.

Winnipeg Matters More Than You Think

Working with financial planners in Winnipeg, we see firsthand how geography plays a role.

Cost of living, housing, taxes, and lifestyle expectations here are very different from Toronto or Vancouver.

That’s why generic advice doesn’t work.

Your plan needs to reflect:

• Local cost of living
• Manitoba tax structure
• Your actual spending habits
• Your personal goals

What Actually Impacts “Enough”

When we build a financial plan, we’re not just looking at your investments. We’re factoring in:

Inflation

The cost of living doesn’t stay the same — especially over a 20–30 year retirement.

Taxes

How you draw income matters just as much as how you build it.

Fees

Even small percentages can have a meaningful impact over time.

Longevity

People are living longer — which means your money needs to last longer.

The Four Stages We Plan For

At YourStyle, we don’t just focus on retirement. We guide clients through every stage:

Accumulation

Building the foundation and developing good habits.

Growth

Maximizing opportunities while managing risk.

Preservation

Protecting what you’ve built as retirement approaches.

Transfer of Wealth

Ensuring your legacy is passed on efficiently and intentionally.

Because the goal isn’t just to retire.
It’s to do it with clarity and confidence.

So… Is $1M Enough?

It might be.
Or $3M might not be.

That’s the point.

There is no universal number. There is only your number.

And the only way to find it is through planning.

Live for Today. Plan for Tomorrow.

You don’t have to choose between enjoying life now and preparing for the future.

With the right plan, you can do both.

Let’s Build Your Plan

If you’ve been wondering whether you’re on track — or what “enough” really looks like for you — let’s have that conversation.

We’ll map it out clearly, based on your life, your goals, and your timeline.

👉 Connect with YourStyle Financial to start your personalized financial plan.

Because peace of mind doesn’t come from guessing a number.
It comes from knowing your plan.

— Doug

What Working With a Financial Advisor Really Looks Like (If You’ve Been Feeling Intimidated)

For many people, the idea of meeting with a financial advisor can feel intimidating.

You might wonder:

• Will I be judged for where I’m at?
• Will it feel like a sales meeting?
• Do I need to have everything organized before I reach out?
• What if I don’t know the right questions to ask?

If any of those thoughts feel familiar, you’re not alone. Many people in Manitoba delay financial planning simply because they aren’t sure what the experience will actually be like.

The reality is, working with a financial advisor doesn’t need to feel overwhelming or uncomfortable. When done properly, it should feel steady, clear, and centred around one simple question:

What’s important to you?

Why Financial Advisors Can Feel Intimidating

There are a few common reasons people hesitate to reach out:

• Financial language can sound complicated
• Media messaging often focuses on fear or urgency
• Some advisors lead with numbers before understanding the person
• There’s a concern about being “sold to”

If you’ve ever felt that way, it’s completely understandable.

Financial planning is personal. It involves your goals, your habits, your priorities, and sometimes your uncertainties. It should never feel like an interrogation or a performance review.

What Working With a Financial Advisor at YourStyle Actually Looks Like

The process is simpler than many people expect.

1. It Starts With a Conversation — Not a Presentation

The first meeting isn’t about charts or projections.

It’s about understanding you.

• What stage of life are you in?
• What’s on your mind right now?
• What does financial peace of mind look like to you?
• What’s important to you?

There’s no pressure to have everything prepared. You don’t need to “know enough.” The goal is simply to start a conversation in a way that feels comfortable.

2. Clarity Before Complexity

Financial planning doesn’t need to be complicated to be effective.

Rather than overwhelming you with terminology or technical details, the focus is on helping you understand what matters most and what steps make sense next.

That might include:

• Organizing what you already have
• Identifying gaps in protection or planning
• Clarifying retirement goals
• Creating a structure that supports your lifestyle

The pace is steady and thoughtful. Questions are always welcome.

3. A Comfortable, Judgment-Free Environment

Many people worry they’ll be told they should have started sooner, saved more, or structured things differently.

That’s not helpful.

Everyone’s path looks different. Life happens. Careers change. Families grow. Priorities evolve.

Financial planning should meet you where you are — not where someone thinks you “should” be.

The goal is to create clarity and confidence, not pressure.

4. Ongoing Support That Reflects Your Comfort Level

Some clients prefer regular check-ins. Others prefer fewer meetings with time to reflect between conversations.

There isn’t a single “right” way to plan.

The process adapts to your personality, your pace, and your preferences. For those who are naturally more introverted or private, planning can be structured in a way that feels calm and manageable.

Financial planning should fit into your life — not take it over.

What’s Important to You?

At the end of the day, financial planning isn’t about outperforming markets or chasing complexity.

It’s about helping you make decisions that support what matters most in your life.

• Stability
• Flexibility
• Family
• Retirement
• Simplicity
• Confidence

Whatever that looks like for you, it starts with a conversation.

If you’ve been feeling hesitant or unsure about what working with a financial advisor looks like, know that it doesn’t need to feel intimidating.

If you’d like to learn more about the process or simply have an initial conversation, you’re always welcome to reach out. There’s no pressure — just a place to begin.

RRSP Season Is Here: A Simple Way to Care for Your Future (and Your Taxes)

As RRSP season arrives, many people feel a familiar mix of intention and uncertainty. You know saving for retirement matters — but life is busy, priorities compete, and it’s easy to wonder whether contributing now will really make a difference.

With the RRSP contribution deadline of March 2, 2026, this is a gentle reminder that even a thoughtful contribution today can support both your future lifestyle and your current tax situation.

What an RRSP Really Does for You

A Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) is designed to help you build long-term financial security — but its benefits extend well beyond retirement.

When you contribute to an RRSP:

• You lower your taxable income today, which can reduce the amount of tax you owe
• Your savings grow tax-deferred, meaning you don’t pay tax on growth until you withdraw funds
• You’re actively investing in your future independence and flexibility

For many Canadians, RRSP contributions result in a tax refund — money that can be reinvested, used to reduce debt, or set aside for other meaningful goals.

Why Timing Matters Right Now

RRSP contributions made before March 2, 2026 can be applied to your 2025 tax year. This means you still have time to make a decision that may ease the tax pressure you’re feeling today — while quietly strengthening your long-term plan.

Even if you’re unsure how much to contribute, starting the conversation now allows us to:

• Review your available contribution room
• Assess whether an RRSP fits your current income and life stage
• Explore how RRSPs work alongside other strategies like TFSAs or pensions

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer — and that’s okay.

RRSPs Are About More Than Retirement

At YourStyle Financial, we believe financial planning is personal. An RRSP isn’t just about numbers on a statement — it’s about creating options, reducing stress, and feeling more confident about the road ahead.

Whether retirement is decades away or just around the corner, the right RRSP strategy can support the life you want to live — now and in the future.

If you’ve been meaning to look at your RRSP but haven’t had the chance, this is a wonderful time to reach out. I’m always happy to talk through your questions and help you make a decision that feels right for you.

— Samantha

Recognizing the Warning Signs: How Caregivers Can Spot Changes in Loved Ones

Part 6 of 7 | Financial Wellness Series

In the sixth installment of our Financial Wellness Video Series, Doug Buss, founder of YourStyle Financial, joins Rafiq Punjani from Right at Home to discuss one of the most important questions private caregivers can ask:
👉 “What are the signs we should look for that might signal concern?”

Supporting Independence: Helping Elders Live Safely at Home

Part 4 of 7 | Financial Wellness Series

In the fourth episode of our Financial Wellness Video Series, Doug Buss, founder of YourStyle Financial, joins Rafiq Punjani from Right at Home to talk about how to provide meaningful support for elders who are beginning to need help — while maintaining their independence, confidence, and dignity.

When Finances Get Tight: How to Reassess and Regain Control

Part 3 of 7 | Financial Wellness Series

In the third installment of our Financial Wellness Video Series, Doug Buss, founder of YourStyle Financial, joins Rafiq Punjani from Right At Home to talk about what happens when someone reaches out for help because they’re struggling financially — particularly later in life.

Exploring Financial Tools for Families and Caregivers — Interview with Doug Buss

Part 2 of 7 | Financial Wellness Series

In the second installment of our Financial Wellness Video Series, Doug Buss, founder of YourStyle Financial, joins Rafiq Punjani from Right At Home to discuss an important topic — the financial tools available to families and private caregivers who want to help their loved ones remain at home for as long as possible.

Understanding Financial Challenges in Retirement — Interview with Doug Buss

Part 1 of 7 | Financial Wellness Series

Part 1 of 7 | Financial Wellness Series

In this first installment of our Financial Wellness Video Series, Doug Buss, founder of YourStyle Financial, sits down with Rafiq Punjani from Right At Home to talk about the real financial challenges adults — especially retirees — are facing today.

With inflation driving up the cost of everyday goods and services, many Canadians living on a fixed income are finding it increasingly difficult to maintain the lifestyle they once enjoyed. Doug explains how YourStyle Financial works closely with clients to understand where their money is going, identify opportunities to make changes, and help them use their income and investments more efficiently.

“It’s about helping people make informed decisions,” says Doug. “When interest rates are at 40-year lows, those who rely on investment income — particularly seniors — are often hit the hardest. Our job is to help them adjust, plan, and still find ways to enjoy life.”

This episode highlights the importance of personalized financial planning, proactive budgeting, and creative strategies to maximize income, even in a challenging economic climate.

🎥 Watch the full video below to hear Doug’s insights and practical advice.

📆 This is Part 1 of our 7-part Financial Wellness Series. Be sure to check back every week for a new episode featuring helpful discussions about financial planning, investments, and real-world solutions to help you live the life you deserve.

Strengthening Family Bonds Through Financial Planning: How YourStyle Financial Facilitates Meaningful Conversations

At YourStyle Financial, we believe in the power of whole-life management. Based in Winnipeg, our mission is to prioritize “What’s Important To You”. Here’s how we bring family-focused financial planning to life.

The Importance of Family Meetings

Financial planning is more than just numbers; it’s about family dynamics, communication, and legacy. Family meetings can help navigate these complex relationships, ensuring everyone’s voice is heard and respected.

Stress-Free Retirement

You’re heading towards the next stage of life where you’re worrying less about your career and more about your future. You’ve been a diligent saver, regularly contributing to your RRSP and amassed a sizable nest egg for retirement. Now it’s time to turn on the tap and start to draw down your savings in a way that results in the least amount of taxation?

That’s where a RRIF (Registered Retirement Income Fund) comes in handy. A RRIF’s purpose is to draw down your savings in a tax efficient manner instead of accumulating them.

Reimagine Aging

Aging – Is it the worst of times or the best of times?

How many times have you heard “Do it while you’re younger”, “Enjoy it while you can” or “Don’t get old”? Advertising and social media practically shoves youth and vitality down the throats of all viewers. While aging definitely offers its own challenges but maybe it’s time to flip the story and look at it a little differently.

This is why the Centre on Aging is hosting a free six-week program to help individuals re-imagine their own aging. This program offers the opportunity to discuss the perceived negatives of aging, how they affect you and those in your circles and give ideas on how to challenge them.

When: Tuesdays

Time: 3:00pm

Start Date: January 24^th, 2023

End Date: February 28^th, 2023

To register for the program, sign up using the online form: https://bit.ly/3VFxbtc or call Dallas

Murphy at 204-474-8731. For more information, email: rethinkaging@umanitoba.ca.

Turn back the proverbial clock and celebrate your experiences!

In Sight – Top of Mind

You’ve all heard the old adage:  Out of sight, out of mind? Well, we recently decided to try the opposite with our fruit in the fridge.  Doug and I are working with Shauna Muldrew, Owner and  Health Coach of Infinity Health and Nutrition Coaching, to spruce up our eating and work outs and she suggested that we get the fruit OUT of the crispers and on a shelf in the fridge – RIGHT AT EYE LEVEL. I have also been placing apples, plums, peaches and oranges in a fruit bowl on the kitchen counter.  Lo and behold, because all these healthy goodies are now visible, the whole family is eating more fruit rather than reaching for processed snacks. You’re all familiar with those hangry times when you get home from a busy, stressful day and you just want to rip open a bag of chips?  I’m not saying that fruit cuts it over chips, but at least at our house, fruit is now the first thing you see when entering the kitchen or opening the fridge. This makes it soooooo much easier to grab a healthy snack. Anyone who knows us knows we love to chill in our living room and watch sports or movies.  We call our reclining seats Row 1 Seats 1 &2 for Jets games!  However, those food commercials on TV can be sooooo enticing. You can practically smell the aromas coming from the TV!  I now pre-wash and prepare strawberries and grapes.  They are ready to go! All we have to do is grab a bowlful and crunch down on some grapes.  The sweet crunchiness also satisfies the chocolate cravings. Making small, visible changes keeps us moving in the right direction. The same can be said for having a financial plan and meeting regularly with a financial planner. We now have a plan to increase our healthy snacks and it’s working. Having a financial plan with visible goals and objectives works the same way by keeping your finances In Sight and Top of Mind.

Struggling with Finances? You’re Not Alone

When you’re sitting at the table shuffling through a stack of bills, or you’re scared to check your email for fear of finding new bills, it’s easy to think you’re all alone.  It’s natural to become overwhelmed and believe there is no way to dig yourself out of your current position. This type of thinking plays directly into your perception of yourself and your self-worth.
Manulife has been studying the link between health and wealth since 2014. What they’ve found was in 2015, financial wellness was connected to productivity. In 2016, it showed that 40% of Canadians are financially unwell. I guess you’re not so alone after all…
In 2017, what has come to light through speaking with professional counselors is there are emotional barriers to financial wellness. People are embarrassed to share their financial woes, are ashamed and feel like they’ve failed. More than half the time people seek help, financial troubles are a part of it and only 1/3 of them see the connection between their financial struggles and their other challenges.
Financial worries can lead to physical manifestations of stress and create or amplify mental health concerns. This level of stress impacts the ability not only to be productive in the workplace, but sometimes to attend the workplace at all. In an average week, 500,000 Canadians miss work, and a whopping 30% of disability claims and 70% of disability costs are associated with mental health issues and illnesses.¹
Organizations have the opportunity to provide resources to help. With the right group benefits plan and provider, employees can have access to comprehensive health benefits which include both physical and mental programs. Many of these plans also promote financial well-being and preparedness.
YourStyle Financial is an independent group benefits consulting firm. We offer a range of services geared to help our clients maximize the strength of the dollars they spend on benefits. Schedule a lunch and learn today or contact us.

Investment Terms You Should Know

It’s always good to be well informed when dealing with your finances. Knowing these basics will help, especially if you are new to investing. What is a Financial Advisor? You want to get help with financial advice from a Financial Advisor, but who will you turn to? Advisors can specialize in different areas including investments, tax and estate planning and insurance or one Advisor can provide all of these combined services. Advisors can be paid by salary, commission, fees or a combination of commission and fees. Advisors work at banks, insurance carriers or independent firms and must be registered with an industry regulating agency. A good way to ensure you are dealing with a reputable advisor is to check out their credentials and experience.