I don’t like numbers.  

I don’t like to count.  

I don’t like to do math.  

People always think I’m good at math because I’m a financial advisor… I’m not. 

I do, however, like puzzles.  

Piecing things together just right until they create the perfect picture… now that is satisfying! 

For many of the same reasons I dislike math, people can feel overwhelmed when thinking about money. 

Budgets, investment returns, retirement projections — it can all start to feel like a complicated math problem with no instructions. 

If you’ve ever avoided looking at your accounts because numbers make your head spin, please know that you’re not alone. 

The good news is that financial planning doesn’t have to be intimidating. It can be broken down into simple principles (or small puzzle pieces) that help you feel confident and see your financial future like a completed picture with more clarity. 

Tip #1: Focus on Goals, Not Formulas 

Instead of obsessing over percentages and rates of return, start with what really matters: your life goals. 

What do you want to accomplish with your money? Maybe it’s retiring comfortably, traveling more, stopping full-time work by 55, or helping your kids with college. 

When you translate numbers into tangible life outcomes, you move from math stress to life planning. 

Tip #2: Break Your Money into Buckets 

Rather than tracking every dollar, think about your money in three categories. I find these work well for most people:

  • Essentials
  • Saving
  • Fun

What’s considered “essential” versus “fun” will look different for everyone but try to be honest with yourself about the difference. Meet your savings goals (set with your financial advisor) and allow yourself to enjoy spending on “fun.” 

For a deeper look at how to create more “buckets” under the “saving” category, consider reading this article.  

Tip #3: Automate What You Can 

Setting up automatic transfers for bills and savings removes a lot of the stress. Automation ensures your plan moves forward consistently, even if you forget.  

It also allows you to have confidence that what is left in your checking account is indeed available for “fun.” 

Tip #4: Keep Investments Simple 

You don’t need dozens of funds or complex annuity and insurance products to grow your wealth. Many people do well with basic diversified, low-maintenance investments.  

The fewer moving parts, the easier it is to understand and stick with your plan. 

Tip #5: Use Visual Tools Instead of Spreadsheets 

Sometimes a chart or graph can make your financial picture clearer than rows and columns ever could. 

Many apps and platforms now offer visual summaries of your net worth, spending, and progress toward goals. These make planning feel more intuitive and a lot less like a math assignment. 

Tip #6: Get a Guide, Not a Guru 

A financial advisor isn’t there to overwhelm you with numbers, but to help translate your financial life into clear, actionable decisions.  

Look for someone who communicates in a way that clicks with you and breaks things down into meaningful, manageable steps. Someone spouting off jargon and fancy words won’t help much if the advice doesn’t make sense, stick, or inspire you to take action. 

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By focusing on goals, simplifying your accounts, automating where you can, and getting solid advice along the way, you can take control of your money without stress. 

Financial planning isn’t about the complexity; It’s about understanding your money well enough to live the life you want.  

Even more importantly, it’s about feeling confident that your financial life aligns with your values and keeps you on the path toward a fulfilling future.