Financial Insights Blog

​Inheriting money or property is often both emotional and practical. You may feel grateful, uncertain, or even pressured to make the most of it right away. An inheritance can strengthen your financial base, but it can also bring decisions that are new and sometimes overwhelming. Taking your time and approaching it thoughtfully can help you honour both the inheritance and your long-term goals.

Many people later say their best decision was to do nothing right away. Losing someone important and suddenly managing new assets can carry weight with it. Allowing yourself time to process and reflect prevents impulsive choices. You might keep the funds in a secure, accessible account while you decide how to use them. Then you can think through what you want this money to do. Is it a safety net, a chance to reduce debt, or an opportunity to make lifestyle changes? A Certified Financial Planner can help you sort out priorities and consider how your inheritance fits into your broader financial picture.

Sometimes an inheritance arrives as cash, but often it includes a mix of assets such as
investments, property, or even partial ownership in a family business. Each comes with different responsibilities. A cottage or home may need ongoing upkeep. Investment accounts might require decisions about risk level and consolidation. Before spending or investing, make sure you have a clear list of what you now own, what it’s worth, and what ongoing costs it carries. This clarity can prevent future surprises and help you make confident, informed decisions.

An inheritance can easily change your financial landscape, but it doesn’t need to change your lifestyle overnight. Some people choose to pay down debt or set aside an emergency fund. Others invest for future security or create a plan that supports both personal goals and generosity to family or causes they care about. The key is to align your choices with what feels meaningful to you, not with outside expectations. A conversation about long- term priorities whether that’s helping children with education, funding a home project, or planning for your own later life can help you define what success looks like. If you are approaching or already in retirement, you may also want to explore retirement planning services to understand how this inheritance might support income stability or future lifestyle goals.

​It’s natural to feel some pressure about doing the right thing with inherited money.
Emotions can be complex, especially if the gift comes from a loved one’s estate. Some people experience guilt about spending the funds, while others feel urgency to invest or share it quickly. There is no single right answer, but taking a measured approach helps. Set aside time to talk with a trusted financial planner who can provide a neutral perspective. They can help you find balance between honouring the person who left you the inheritance and using it in ways that work for you.

Once you’ve taken time to think and organize, start with simple steps. Update or create a will if you haven’t done so already. Review your insurance coverage to ensure your new assets are protected. If you have debts with high interest, reducing them may bring peace of mind and immediate financial benefit. When your essentials are covered, you can look at long-term strategies such as investing or setting aside funds for future plans.

A Certified Financial Planner can model different scenarios, showing how an inheritance could fit into your existing plan without disrupting your goals.

The most lasting benefit of an inheritance comes from integrating it into a larger plan. When coordinated with your savings, retirement goals, and lifestyle needs, it becomes part of a clear financial roadmap rather than an isolated event. For many people, the real satisfaction comes from seeing how the inheritance can reduce worry, support family, or allow new opportunities without creating pressure or regret. Whether your next steps involve saving, investing, or simply maintaining security, thoughtful planning ensures your inheritance contributes meaningfully to the life you’re building.

This article is for informational purposes only. Please consult a qualified certified financial planner for personalized recommendations.

Are you approaching retirement and wondering what life will look like once the working chapter winds down? It’s easy to focus on the financial side — your RRSPs, income sources, and tax strategies — but what often matters most is how you’ll actually live day to day.

Retirement is about more than leaving work behind. It’s about rediscovering what gives you purpose, how you want to spend your time, and how to make your money support the life you envision. Whether you see this as a season of exploration, connection, or slowing down, the transition can feel more meaningful when you plan for both the lifestyle and your finances.

The first step is imagining what your ideal retirement looks like — and being honest about how you want to spend your days. For some, that means travel and freedom. For others, it’s time with grandchildren, creative hobbies, or simply having slower mornings at home. If you’re married or common law, it’s also common for couples to have different expectations. One partner might dream of winters abroad while the other can’t imagine leaving family for long. Having that conversation early helps ensure you plan for a lifestyle that feels right for both of you.

Where you live shapes how you experience retirement. Some people feel deeply rooted in their homes and communities, while others are ready to simplify, downsize, or move closer to family. If you’re considering a move, try to picture daily life there rather than just the idea of it. Would you be near friends or family? Is it easy to get around? What would your support network look like if your health changed?

Housing and community choices are often closely tied to your financial plan. While the decision is emotional, a financial planner can help you understand what each scenario means for your overall plan, whether you’re staying put, buying a cottage, or exploring living abroad.

​One of the greatest gifts of retirement is time, but how you fill it matters. Staying physically active, mentally stimulated, and socially connected has as much impact on long-term well- being as any financial decision. Consider what keeps you engaged: joining a club, volunteering, mentoring younger professionals, or picking up a hobby that’s been on the back burner. Routine and purpose can help keep your days meaningful.

Health also plays a role in how you live out your retirement years. Taking care of yourself today and planning for what might change tomorrow can build confidence and independence. If you’re wondering how insurance fits into the picture, you can reach out to explore your insurance options.

Not everyone wants to stop working entirely. For some, continuing in a lighter capacity provides purpose, social interaction, and even structure during the week. Others find fulfillment through volunteer work, mentoring, or supporting causes close to their heart.

Retirement gives you the freedom to decide how you want to spend your energy, whether that’s paid work, giving back, or simply exploring new interests. Many people describe their happiest years as those when they strike the right balance between relaxation and contribution.

If you’re thinking about a phased approach or self-employment after retirement, you might find it valuable to reach out about my financial planning services for business owners.

Retirement can also shift your relationships — with your spouse, family, and friends. You may be spending more time together, which can be both rewarding and challenging. Open communication about how each of you envisions this stage can help you find shared rhythms that work.
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Many retirees also think more deeply about legacy: what values they want to pass down, how they’d like to support their children or grandchildren, or which causes reflect their life’s priorities. These are meaningful conversations to have early, and they often lead to new clarity about what 'enough' really looks like.

If you’re beginning to explore estate planning or charitable giving, my financial planning and retirement planning services can help you understand where those fit into your broader strategy.

Retirement isn’t one static period; it’s a series of evolving stages. The early years often bring energy, travel, and curiosity. Later years might focus more on stability, community, and comfort. Eventually, attention turns to health, simplicity, and support systems.

Recognizing these transitions helps you plan more naturally. You might want to travel or renovate your home in your early years while you’re most active, then shift to local pursuits or family time later on. The goal isn’t to predict every phase perfectly, but to build flexibility into your plan so your finances and lifestyle can adjust as you do.

A fulfilling retirement blends preparation with curiosity. Taxes, income planning, and
investment decisions all play an important supporting role - you can read more about those in the post How to Get the Most Out of Working with a Financial Planner, but at the heart of it, retirement is about creating the life you want to live.

When you’re ready to create a plan that connects your money to your lifestyle out to Tara Downs Rocchetti, CFP®, to learn more about your options.

Are you looking to retire soon but feeling unsure about what to plan for or where your retirement income will come from? You’re not alone — transitioning from building your nest egg to drawing from it can feel like a big shift. The good news is, with the right structure in place, moving from growth to income doesn’t have to be complicated. In this article, we’ll walk through the key steps to take as you approach or enter retirement — from managing your income sources and taxes to finding balance in your investments.

When you’re ready, reach out to Tara Downs Rocchetti, CFP®, to start building a plan that fits your lifestyle and retirement goals.

As you approach or enter retirement, your financial focus shifts from saving to using the savings you’ve built. This stage, known as retirement income planning, involves figuring out how to turn various sources of income into a steady plan that supports your lifestyle and long-term goals.

For many people this means thinking about practical questions such as:

• When should I start my CPP or OAS benefits?
• How much should I withdraw from my RRIF each year?
• How will taxes affect my income over time?

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These are personal decisions. There’s no one-size-fits-all formula, but understanding how each source of retirement income works and connects can help you make informed choices that fit your situation.

Most Canadians receive retirement income from three main sources:

Government Benefits: Programs such as the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and Old Age
Security (OAS) provide basic income in retirement. CPP is funded through your
contributions during your working years, while OAS is a government-funded benefit
available to eligible seniors based on residency.

Registered Savings: RRSPs are meant for saving during your working years, while RRIFs (Registered Retirement Income Funds) are used to access those savings during retirement. Both are tax-deferred, meaning you pay tax when the money is withdrawn rather than when it is earned.

Other Income Sources: This may include employer pensions, non-registered investments, TFSAs, or income from business and real estate. Each source has different tax implications and levels of flexibility.

Balancing these income streams can help you manage taxes, cash flow, and your overall financial plan throughout retirement.

CPP and OAS benefits form the backbone of retirement income for many Canadians, but deciding when to start these benefits can greatly influence the amount you receive.

You can start CPP as early as age 60 or defer it until age 70. Starting earlier provides income sooner, but each month you delay increases your benefit amount. The right choice depends on factors such as your health, other sources of income, and your retirement goals.
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OAS can also be delayed up to age 70 for a higher monthly benefit. However, it is subject to a clawback if your income exceeds a certain limit, so it’s important to understand how it fits within your overall income plan.

Working with a financial planner can help you explore different start dates, compare tax outcomes, and determine how to coordinate CPP and OAS with your other income sources.

By December 31 of the year you turn 71, you must convert RRSPs into retirement income option such as a RRIFs or annuity. A RRIF allows your investments to continue growing while you withdraw regular income, but it comes with required minimum withdrawals that increase with age.

Each withdrawal is taxed as income, so your total tax bill will depend on your RRIF income, CPP, OAS, and any other income sources. Planning ahead can help avoid unintended increases in taxable income or the potential loss of certain benefits.
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Instead of only focusing on the mandatory minimum withdrawal, consider your broader goals, expected expenses, and overall tax situation. A certified financial planner can help create a flexible plan that meets your needs.

The order in which you withdraw from different accounts can significantly affect your after- tax income over time. Some retirees choose to take modest amounts from their RRSPs or RRIFs before age 71 to manage their taxable income. Others prefer to withdraw from non-registered accounts first to preserve the growth of registered assets. TFSAs often serve as a valuable resource since withdrawals are tax-free and do not affect CPP or OAS.

The best sequence depends on your tax bracket, investment mix, and goals. A financial planner can use projections to show you how each option impacts your taxes and retirement now and in the future.

Retirement income planning involves more than just financial calculations. It’s also about how your goals and lifestyle change over time. For some, this stage of life brings chances to travel or spend more time with family. For others, it may involve caring for loved ones, relocating, or downsizing. Each decision affects spending needs, tax considerations, and how long your savings may need to last.

Even with good intentions, challenges can arise without a clear plan. Some common issues include:

• Ignoring tax bracket thresholds
• Overlooking inflation or future healthcare costs
• Not reviewing your plan regularly as circumstances change

Regular check-ins with a financial planner can help you stay on track with your goals and adjust as needed.

When should I start CPP or OAS?
It depends on your income needs, health, and other income sources. A planner can help weigh the pros and cons of early and delayed benefits.

What happens when I convert my RRSP to a RRIF?
Your investments stay in the registered account, but you must begin withdrawing a
minimum amount each year, which counts as taxable income.

How do taxes affect my retirement income?
Each type of account—RRIF, TFSA, non-registered—has different tax effects. Planning withdrawals carefully can help manage taxes over time.

What is the difference between RRSP, RRIF, and TFSA?
RRSPs are meant for saving during your working years, RRIFs provide income in
retirement, and TFSAs offer tax-free growth and withdrawals at any age.

How can a financial planner help with retirement income planning?
A planner can help you coordinate timing, taxes, and sustainability across your income sources and review your plan regularly as your goals change.

Retirement income planning involves various factors. Understanding how CPP, OAS, RRIFs, and other assets work together can help you make informed choices for your future. If you live in Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville, Toronto or the surrounding regions and are getting ready to transition into retirement, consider reviewing your options with a Certified Financial Planner. Tara Downs Rocchetti, CFP®, offers personalized retirement planning services to help you gain clarity and confidence in your financial life.

​Working with a financial planner can be one of the most important decisions you make for your financial well-being. They help you make sense of your financial situation today and prepare for tomorrow’s goals. But how do you ensure you’re getting the most out of the process? This guide explores what financial planners do, what to consider before meeting one, how to choose the right professional, and the types of life events where planning becomes especially valuable.

At its core, a financial planner’s role is to create a roadmap for your money. This can include:

• Retirement Planning – designing a long-term income plan.
• Investment Planning – building a portfolio that balances growth and risk.
• Tax Strategies – structuring accounts to minimize taxes over time.
• Insurance Planning – reviewing protection needs for individuals and families.
• Cash Flow and Budgeting – helping manage spending and savings effectively.

Certified Financial Planners like Tara Downs Rocchetti, CFP® take a holistic view, looking at both numbers and life goals so the plan reflects what really matters to you.

It helps to reflect on a few areas before your first meeting:

• Your short- and long-term goals.
• Your current financial picture—income, assets, debts.
• The concerns keeping you up at night (retirement, taxes, mortgages, or education costs).
• Your priorities—what needs attention right now, and what can wait.

Tara will guide you through this. You don’t need everything perfectly organized—clarity grows as you talk it through.

Key factors to consider include:

• Credentials: CFP® designation ensures they meet the regulatory standards of financial planning certification in Canada.
• Compensation: There are varying types of compensation based on who you decide to work with
• Experience: Look for someone familiar with your stage of life or profession.
• Planning Philosophy: Do they focus on investments only, or a full financial picture?
• Fit: This is a long-term relationship—comfort and trust are essential.

Financial planning often becomes most valuable during transitions such as:

• Buying or selling a home
• Starting a new job or receiving a promotion
• Receiving an inheritance
• Business succession planning
• Divorce or separation
• Caring for aging parents
• Retirement planning
• Birth of a child or grandchild

Financial Planners like Tara Down Rocchetti, help you weigh your options, test scenarios, and bring a steady perspective when life feels uncertain.

​Working with a professional brings several benefits:

• Clarity – seeing your entire financial picture.
• Accountability – staying on track with goals.
• Expertise – using proven strategies for investments, taxes, and protection.
• Peace of Mind – confidence that you’re preparing for the future.
• Time Savings – freeing yourself from trying to manage it all alone.

Even experienced DIY investors often turn to financial planners for support.

To get the most out of your first session, gather:

• Recent tax returns
• Investment and bank statements
• Insurance policies
• Mortgage and debt details
• Your budget (income and expenses)
• A list of top goals and concerns

Planners like Tara Downs Rocchetti often remind clients: you don’t need everything perfect. The goal is to start the conversation.

During the planning process, you might ask a planner to:

• Show retirement income projections
• Review investments for risk alignment
• Suggest tax-efficient strategies
• Evaluate insurance needs
• Balance retirement savings with education costs
• Model financial “what if” scenarios, such as buying a home or receiving an inheritance

​To make sure you’ve found the right fit, consider:

• What is your planning philosophy?
• How are you compensated?
• What type of clients do you usually work with?
• How often will we review my plan?
• What tools will I have to track progress?

These questions help ensure the relationship is transparent and supportive.

​Financial planning isn’t a one-time event. A strong relationship evolves as your life changes. Most people review plans annually or after big milestones. A good financial planner provides flexibility, perspective, and a process that grows with you.

​Getting the best out of a financial planner is about preparation, openness, and ongoing communication. By reflecting on your goals, choosing someone whose approach aligns with your values, you’ll ensure your plan continues to serve you over time.
Professionals like Tara Downs Rocchetti, CFP® provide financial planning with a focus on helping clients align money with life. Whether you’re preparing for retirement, managing a career change, or navigating family transitions, thoughtful planning can help you move forward with confidence.

Retirement planning for professionals isn’t always straightforward. Whether you're in real estate, tech, healthcare, engineering, or IT, your income patterns, tax situation, and career path all affect how you should prepare for retirement. Yet many professionals delay retirement planning until late in their careers—missing valuable opportunities for tax savings, growth, and flexibility. This guide explores how professionals from different industries can build a retirement strategy that works for their lifestyle, income, and long-term goals.

Many professionals face career-specific challenges:

• Inconsistent or project-based income (e.g., real estate agents, consultants)
• Equity-based compensation (common in tech startups)
• High income but delayed earnings (common in medical careers)
• Incorporation and self-employment tax complexities

A generic retirement plan often doesn't reflect these realities. Instead, professionals need a strategy that accounts for:

• Income volatility
• Tax efficiency
• Retirement savings (RRSPs, TFSAs, etc.)
• Long-term wealth protection

​Real estate agents typically earn commission-based income, which can fluctuate dramatically. Consider:

• Building a larger-than-average emergency fund.
• Reviewing RRSP and TFSA contributions during high-earning years.
• Thinking about a long-term business succession or retirement income strategies.

Many in tech receive compensation through stock options. A few key considerations include:

• Understand when and how to exercise options without triggering unnecessary taxes.
• Review registered account strategies and consider individual pension planning.

Engineers often have access to defined benefit pension plans, especially in the public sector. Those in private industry or consulting may not. Regardless:

• Review employer-sponsored retirement plans and RRSPs.
• Factor in potential global mobility (many engineers work internationally).
• Plan for early retirement options and considerations.

Doctors and healthcare practitioners often enter the workforce later due to years of education and training. Many are also incorporated. Here's what to consider:

• Consider setting up a Pension Plan.
• Balance asset protection with growth.

​Moving from the U.S. to Canada is exciting—but it also means big changes to your financial life. A good cross-border plan helps you avoid stress and stay on track. This guide will walk you through the most important areas to plan for: 

Both the U.S. and Canada may ask for taxes after you move. To avoid confusion and extra costs:

• Talk to a financial planner who understands both countries
• Keep track of your money and accounts
• Ask what forms you need to fill out before and after you move

Your U.S. bank accounts may not work the same way in Canada. Before or right after you move:

• Open a Canadian bank account
• Ask how to safely move your money between countries
• Start building your credit history in Canada
• Learn about Canadian savings plans like the TFSA and RRSP, and how they affect your taxes

You may be keeping your U.S. home, selling it, or buying a new one in Canada. It’s important to think through:

• Will you sell or keep your home in the U.S.?
• Are there extra taxes if you rent it out?
• What do you need to buy a house in Canada?

A financial planner can connect you with the right people to help.

Some U.S. insurance doesn’t work in Canada. Before you move, review:

• Do you need new health insurance in Canada?
• What about car insurance or life insurance?
• Will your U.S. insurance still cover you?

You may need to cancel or update some of your policies.

If you have savings accounts or retirement plans in the U.S., they might not work the same in Canada. Make sure to:

• Ask if you should keep or move your savings
• Learn about Canadian investment accounts
• Understand what to do with your U.S. investments after you move

Start planning early—at least 6 months before you move. That gives you time to:

• Open new bank, credit and investment accounts
• Learn about your tax options
• Work with a financial planner who can guide you
• Avoid last-minute problems

Moving to Canada is a big step, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right plan, you can feel confident that your money, taxes, and insurance are set up the right way from day one.
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If you're planning a move from the U.S. to Canada, now is the time to start. Reach out to speak with Tara Downs Rocchetti today.

Financial planning isn't just for people nearing retirement—it's for anyone who wants to feel more confident and in control of their financial life. Whether you're saving for a major goal, managing a recent inheritance, or simply trying to make sense of your finances, a certified financial planner can help. In this post, we explore four of the most frequently asked questions about financial planning and what you can expect from the process.

Financial planning is the process of identifying your financial goals and creating a
comprehensive, personalized strategy around them. It involves evaluating your income, expenses, assets, liabilities, and current financial position, and then mapping out a plan that supports your short- and long-term objectives. A solid financial plan typically addresses a range of areas, including:

• Retirement planning
• Tax planning
• Investment strategy
• Cash flow and budgeting
• Risk management (including insurance needs)
• Estate and legacy planning
• Education savings

More importantly, financial planning is not a one-time event. It's an ongoing process that adapts as your life evolves—whether that means a career change, starting a family, purchasing a home, or transitioning into retirement. A good financial planner works with you over time to adjust your plan and keep you on track.

The process always begins with you. A financial planner starts by getting to know you—your values, lifestyle, financial concerns, and long-term aspirations. This discovery phase is essential, because the most effective plans are rooted in what's meaningful to you.

Once your goals are clear, the next steps typically include:

1. Data gathering: You’ll provide details about your income, savings, investments, debt, and existing financial products (like RRSPs, TFSAs, or insurance policies).
2. Analysis: Your financial planner will assess your current financial picture, identifying strengths, gaps, and opportunities.
3. Strategy development: Based on your goals and circumstances, a personalized financial strategy is created. This may include cash flow management strategies, retirement plans, risk management, investment plans, and more.
4. Implementation: You’ll work together to put the plan into action—opening accounts, setting up contributions, purchasing insurance, or restructuring your investments.
5. Monitoring and updates: Financial planning is dynamic. A financial planner will meet with you regularly to review progress, update your plan, and help you adjust to life changes.

This collaborative process ensures that your plan evolves alongside your life.

There are many reasons to speak with a financial planner, but the most common one is peace of mind. When you work with a planner, you gain a clearer picture of your financial situation and a roadmap to help you make informed decisions.
Here are a few specific benefits:

1. Clarity and organization: Understand your financial standing and how all the pieces fit together.
2. Goal alignment: Translate your personal and professional goals into actionable financial strategies.
3. Tax strategies: Learn how to use registered accounts like RRSPs and TFSAs more effectively.
4. Retirement readiness: Understand what you'll need to retire comfortably, and develop a plan to get there.
5. Risk management: Identify potential gaps in your insurance or estate plan that could impact your financial security.
6. Support through transitions: Life changes like starting a business, divorce, inheritance, or downsizing are easier to navigate with a financial planner by your side.

Ultimately, a financial planner helps you take control of your financial life so you can focus more on what matters most to you.

 To provide personalized and actionable advice, a financial planner needs a full picture of your financial situation. That might sound daunting, but this information is crucial to building a plan that truly works for you.

Here’s what you can expect to be asked:

• Personal information: Age, marital status, number of dependents, career details, and goals.
• Income: Salary, business income, rental income, or pension/benefit income.
• Expenses: Monthly or annual spending, including housing, transportation, education, and leisure.
• Assets: Bank accounts, real estate, RRSPs, TFSAs, pensions, and other investments.
• Liabilities: Mortgages, lines of credit, credit card balances, and other debts.
• Insurance: Life, disability, critical illness, or group coverage.
• Legal documents: Existing wills, powers of attorney, or trust structures.

Your financial planner will also discuss your risk tolerance and investment preferences to help align your plan with your comfort level and time horizon.
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The goal isn’t to overwhelm you—it’s to build a strategy based on facts, not assumptions. All of the information you provide is treated with the utmost confidentiality and professionalism.

​Not everyone has the same goals, challenges, or starting point. Some clients are just beginning to build wealth. Others are preparing to exit a business or manage a significant inheritance. Some are focused on legacy planning, while others are simply trying to make sure they can retire when they want to.

That’s why I take a personalized approach to every financial plan. My goal is simple: your financial goals are my priority. Whether you’re looking for support in one specific area or need help tying everything together, I work with you to design a plan that fits your life and evolves as you do.

Financial planning doesn’t have to be complicated or intimidating. It starts with a
conversation—one that’s centered on you. If you’re ready to take the next step, book a meeting with me, Tara Downs Rocchetti, CFP®.
Let’s build a plan that works for you—today and into the future.

Goals are something me and other financial planners discuss frequently with our clients. Sometimes, though, it's harder for people than you might think. I get it - I used to hate the "goal setting" activities at school with a serious passion. Mainly because they were futile exercises that were never reviewed again, so I felt they were a serious waste of time.
 
So, how is this different? Nobody is forcing you to set arbitrary goals. You're not being graded on this.
 
Goal setting for financial planning helps us have an idea of what is important to you and helps us create a plan so you can do more of whatever it is you love.
 
Some people will tell me they "don't know what type of goal they're supposed to have." Guess what? There's no magic answer! Your goals are as unique as you are and your financial plans can and should be tailored to match that.
 
I thought I might write a bit about "unique" goals I've heard clients mention (apart from the more traditional "retirement," "buying a home," "paying for my kids' education" or "making my side hustle my sole income.")
 
Here are some of the most memorable ones (in no particular order):
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1) Publishing a book. 
 
This is particularly common in academic circles where you usually need to cover all or part of the associated costs even when dealing with a reputable publisher.
 
2) Self-financing a "sabbatical" or "gap year" from work abroad.
 
3) Providing a good life for a car.
 
Car lovers are next level. You know the type. This is similar but not to providing for a pet. For these people, this involves meticulous maintenance regiments and long relaxing drives with their mechanical loves. In these instances, I'll recognize their love for their car by including it by name in their plan. 
 
4) Financial security for a pet.
 
Either estate planning to ensure the pet is well cared for if you pass away or just being financially stable enough to afford a pet and all that that entails. (This is not different than providing for any other family member, in my opinion. However, many people fail to consider it so I am always so happy to hear this.)
 
5) Saving for fertility treatments or adoption and all those processes entail (procedures, medications, legal fees, time off work, etc.)
 
Saving extra for baby items and mat leave is definitely a thing I discuss often. But, sometimes extra costs (emotional and financial) are involved with adding a little one to the family.
 
6) Saving for gender reassignment surgery.
 
This is an emotionally, mentally and financially heavy goal. I really dislike that these and fertility procedures are considered "luxury" or "elective" procedures that often need to be financed privately to avoid massive waitlists for minimal subsidies at best. However, I'm totally here for supporting you as best I can in your efforts to live life your way.
 
7) Being able to afford good ______ (insert product of choice here). 
 
The heart wants what it wants. I appreciate people who are unabashedly themselves. My favourite examples of this include a person who wanted to become a politician and be able to host wine and cheese parties with quality fromage and a person who wanted to be able to afford premium "intimate adult toys" without the "guilty pleasure."
 
What goals are you working towards?