‍

If you're approaching retirement or thinking about the legacy you want to leave—whether financial, emotional, or relational—this is for you.

This blog is written for individuals who are beginning to ask:

• How do I want to spend my time once work is optional?

• What kind of support or inheritance do I want to pass on to my children or grandchildren?

• How do I make sure my money reflects my values and priorities?

‍

Time as the #1 Currency

The 2011 film In Time, starring Justin Timberlake and Amanda Seyfried, imagines a world where time is literally currency. People stop aging at 25 and are given just one year to live, unless they can earn, steal, or inherit more time. The wealthy live forever; the poor live day to day.

It’s a powerful metaphor. As a financial planner, I was once asked: What’s the most valuable thing you have? My first instinct was to say my income-earning ability or our home. But after some reflection, the answer was clear: Time.

We often treat time as if it’s infinite—wasting it, giving it away, or forgetting its value. But unlike money, once time is gone, it’s gone for good.

As a financial planner, I was once asked: What’s the most valuable thing you have? My first instinct was to say my income-earning ability or our home. But after some reflection, the answer was clear: time.

‍

What Does Freedom Really Mean?

This idea of time as currency naturally leads us to rethink retirement. Retirement isn’t just about stopping work—it’s about gaining the freedom to choose how you spend your time. It’s the moment when earning money is no longer the primary driver, and you can focus on what truly matters to you.

‍

It is Not All About the Money

You might still choose to work, for pleasure, purpose, or community—but not because you have to. True financial freedom means:

• Choosing when and how you work

• Spending time with loved ones

• Giving back through volunteering or mentorship

• Exploring passions or causes that matter to you

What Will You Leave Behind, If Anything?

Once you’ve gained freedom over your time, the next question becomes: What kind of legacy do I want to leave?

Legacy isn’t just about money. It’s about how you use your time, your values, and your resources to support the people and causes you care about.

‍

Legacy Beyond Wealth: Time, Values, and Support

Creating wealth can mean helping your children or grandchildren, whether through financial support, childcare, or simply being present. In New Zealand, as in many countries:

• Baby Boomers hold a large share of wealth, especially in property

• Younger generations face housing affordability challenges

• Inheritance and family support are becoming key to financial security

• Estate planning and open conversations are more important than ever

But legacy also includes passing on financial literacy, emotional support, and a sense of purpose.

‍

The Three Currencies of Life

To make thoughtful decisions about retirement and legacy, we need to consider more than just money. Think of life in terms of three currencies:

• Time

• Health

• Money

You can’t always control all three at once. That’s why planning is so important—so you can make the most of each, at the right time in your life.

‍

Giving with Intention: Before and After You're Gone

When people receive an inheritance, they often feel pressure to “do the right thing.” That’s why it’s important to plan ahead:

• How do you want to help your children or grandchildren?

• Would early support (e.g. for a home or education) be more impactful than a posthumous gift?

• How can you pass on not just money, but meaning?

Start early. Educate your heirs. Share your values. And consider the joy of seeing your loved ones thrive while you’re still here.

‍

Start early. Educate your heirs. Share your values.

‍

Die With Zero?

A client once recommended the book Die With Zero by Bill Perkins. I was sceptical—it sounded like it might put me out of a job! But the message resonated:

Every dollar you earn represents life energy. If you die with a large unspent fortune, you’ve essentially wasted that energy.

The goal isn’t to run out of money before you die—but to use your resources intentionally to create a rich, meaningful life and legacy.

‍

Your Next Step: Start the Conversation

Financial planning is about more than just wealth. It’s about designing a life that reflects your values, supports your loved ones, and makes the most of your time.

Let’s talk. Book a coffee with me or one of our planners, and let’s start your journey toward time and money freedom.

‍

Dean.

‍

About Dean

Hi everyone! My name is Dean, and I am Financial Adviser and coach. I work with people to help them to achieve their financial goals and assist them to make smarter financial decisions. Drop me a line for a chat and to work through your goals. I work with you to become financially fit and together we create a game plan for your financial future. D.

Disclaimer: Dean Blair (FSP87402) is a Financial Adviser with Velocity Financial (FSP95466). No investment decision should be taken based on the information in this blog alone. Please see our disclosure statement on our website.

Always get professional advice

The information shared in this post is meant to be general guide to support you on your journey. When making important decisions about your finances, we encourage you to seek independent financial advice first, tailored to your unique situation.  As well as talking with a financial adviser, make sure you talk to your lawyer and accountant too – together they'll help you find the best solution for your specific situation. Our knowledgeable financial advisers are here to help. Check out our website for the details about our financial advisory services in our disclosures:

https://www.velocityfinancial.co.nz/disclosure-statement.

‍