As the year draws to a close, now is an excellent time to consider how our financial decisions can create lasting impact for ourselves and future generations. 

The idea of a ‘kinder legacy’ encourages us to involve younger family members in our giving practices. December offers a perfect opportunity for these activities. For example, you could set a gift budget together, explore causes that matter to everyone, and discuss the impact of the decisions you make. This approach not only teaches important values but creates family traditions that go beyond material wealth. 

When we think about what truly matters in our own lives, we often discover that wellbeing grows much like financial investments; with time and careful nurturing. The most valuable assets in our lives aren’t usually financial, they’re our relationships, sense of purpose, meaningful experiences, and health.  

Making informed financial decisions can ease pressure and create space for a more meaningful life. This is why at Citywide we place your personal values at the heart of the planning process, treating them as essential to building a path that feels consistent and true to you. Our whole methodology is built on this belief, because it means you build a solid foundation for both financial security and personal fulfilment. 

This time of year is a natural moment to pause and consider the path you are on. At Citywide, we specialise in life coaching as well as financial planning, and much of our work centres on helping people clarify what they want from life and supporting them as they move towards those goals.  

With that in mind, three questions can help guide your own reflection:

• What has and has not gone well over the past year? 
• What you have learned, both from experiences that strengthened you and those that were more challenging?
• Where have you held back by not being as bold, decisive or true to your goals as you might have been? 

From here, identify three things you would like to achieve in 2026 that would bring you a greater sense of purpose and fulfilment. This is less about financial tasks and more about the life you want to build, and we are here to support you in that wider journey. If you would find it helpful to talk through your reflections or revisit your life plan, your adviser will be glad to guide the conversation. 

To close, we believe thoughtful financial planning goes beyond numbers, it builds the foundation for a life well-lived, as well as a legacy that reflects what matters most to you and your family, that grows in meaning and value across generations. 

by Simon Northcott
Financial Planner