As the director of a business that aims to provide you with nothing short of your dream life, I can’t afford to stand still. To give you peace of mind and confidence in your financial future, I need to constantly adapt.

I’ve always been eager to learn and seek opportunities for professional and personal growth. My day-to-day job involves researching, analysing, and scientifically scrutinising available data to ensure I provide the very best recommendations for you. Staying fit and healthy is equally important to retaining focus and, it goes without saying, for all of us to live our best life!

A crucial element of our process is accurately verifying that the numbers align, and hopefully, you agree that we excel in this area. This diligence helps to reinforce your confidence in your future finances. Perhaps even more important, though, is your ongoing "Happiness, Health, and Strength".

Inspiration can be found everywhere

Over the years, I have read inspirational books by many accomplished authors and tried to incorporate their key insights. Some of my favourites are:

• Get the Edge by Tony Robbins
• Atomic Habits by James Clear
• Born to Run by Christopher McDougall

All three positively influenced me. As I often say, "Life is not a rehearsal!" Maintaining fitness and health for as long as possible is just as critical as aligning your finances with your needs, goals, and objectives.

Tom and Luke Stoltman from Invergordon, known as the “World's Strongest Brothers”, are also on my list of inspirations. Their achievements as athletes, along with their social media videos demonstrating their willingness to push beyond their comfort zone, resonate deeply with me. (The pair recently joined the Invergordon Couch to 5km running group. Although they’re tremendous athletes, running is not their usual exercise!)

The brothers also recently shared a video of their experience training with Wim Hof, the “Ice Man”. Seeing their reactions to trying the breathing exercises and cold-water training intrigued me enough to dive deeper.

Wim Hof extols the virtues of breathing exercises and cold water exposure for improved health and fitness for everyone. He makes some bold claims but having participated in many rigorous medical experiments himself – as well those conducted among others who use his methods – the science appears to back them up. And it’s easy to try out. We all breathe and take showers, so what is there to lose in testing the theory?

Health, Happiness, and Strength from unexpected sources

It may seem unconventional, but Hof’s breathing exercises, cold showers, and meditations could improve more than your physical and mental health.

What if I told you that you could apply these principles to your financial planning too? Sounds wild, right? Let's take the plunge!

1. Breathing exercises can help you to stay calm under pressure

Wim Hof's breathing techniques are all about staying calm and focused, even in stressful situations. When it comes to your finances, worry can be a constant companion. Whether it's market volatility, shock expenses, or tangling with tricky investment decisions, staying calm is vital.

How to apply:

Take a deep breath: Before making any major financial decision, take a few minutes to practice deep breathing. This can clear your mind and reduce anxiety, helping you to make more rational and objective choices. A cooling-off period also gives you time to pick up the phone and get in touch to see how Macmillan Financial Planning can help.

Regular financial check-ins: As you adopt daily breathing exercises, schedule regular check-ins with your finances too. Review your budget, track your expenses, and adjust your plans as needed.

2. Cold exposure provides valuable lessons in embracing discomfort

Cold exposure in the Wim Hof Method teaches you to embrace discomfort and build resilience. Financial planning often involves stepping out of your comfort zone, whether it's cutting back on spending, investing in unfamiliar assets, or saving for long-term goals.

How to apply:

Budgeting: Creating and sticking to a budget can be uncomfortable, especially if it means cutting back on luxuries. Embrace the discomfort and focus on the long-term benefits.

Investing: Diversifying your investments might feel risky, but it's essential for long-term growth. Start small and gradually increase your exposure to different asset classes.

3. Meditation can improve focus and clarity

Meditation is a key component of the Wim Hof Method, helping you achieve mental clarity and focus. Financial planning requires a clear mind to set goals, make informed decisions, and stay disciplined.

How to apply:

Goal setting: Use meditation techniques to visualise your financial goals. Whether it's buying a house, saving for retirement, or paying off debt, a clear vision (and realistic expectations) can keep you motivated.

Mindful spending: Practice mindfulness when it comes to spending. Before making a purchase, take a moment to consider if it aligns with your financial goals. Leave it in your virtual basket for 24 hours and then come back to it with fresh eyes and a clear head.

Don’t just listen to me, listen to the World's Strongest Brothers

As the Stoltman brothers well know, the Wim Hof Method isn't just about boosting your physical and mental health; it can be a powerful tool with applications for all aspects of your life.

One such area could be your long-term financial planning. By staying calm under pressure, embracing discomfort, and maintaining focus and clarity, you can take control of your finances and achieve your goals.

So, take a deep breath, embrace the cold, and meditate your way to financial success!

Get in touch

If you’d like to chat about the Wim Hof Method, or with any other aspect of your long-term financial plan, please get in touch at info@macfp.co.uk or call 01349 832849.

Please note

This article is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at retail clients only.

The value of your investment can go down as well as up and you may not get back the full amount you invested. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance.

Please also note

This article is for general information only and does not constitute health advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition and the suitability of any exercise or lifestyle changes. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this article.