A few weeks ago, I completed my first Olympic-distance triathlon, finishing in the top 10 of my division. It was both challenging and rewarding, and it reinforced the importance of preparation and support.
I signed up at the start of the year, giving myself plenty of time to train. Swimming and cycling became my focus, as they didn’t come as naturally to me. For cycling, I learned from friends who rode recreationally — their advice and company made a big difference. Swimming required disciplined practice to build confidence. My friend Yuki joined the race too, signing up just three days before, with no training and no experience swimming or cycling. Remarkably, he managed to finish, but his journey was vastly different from mine. While I felt prepared and competitive, Yuki was simply happy to cross the finish line.
This contrast reminded me of what we do at One Wealth Advisors. Financial planning is a lot like preparing for a race. With clear goals, a thoughtful plan and the right support, the journey can be smoother, more focused and ultimately more rewarding. Challenges will arise, whether it’s a tough hill in a race or an unexpected life event, but preparation and teamwork can make all the difference.