As I recently wrote, on my experience of living in Japan, and the impact it has had on my thinking and approach to wealth planning and goal setting, I also thought on how crucial it is to move onwards and upwards from the goal setting to the action taking.  

Which is much like planning a momentous mountain climb. Climbing Mount Fuji is a great analogy for achieving your planned and intentional financial goals discovered through the ikigai process, because both require: 

• Planning and preparation: You wouldn't climb Mount Fuji without researching the route, weather conditions, and necessary equipment. Similarly, achieving financial goals requires a solid financial plan, including budgeting, saving, and investing strategies. 

• Setting clear objectives: The goal is clear: reach the summit or the “top”. With your money and finances, you need specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound goals, such as "save $100,000 for a house deposit payment in four years." 

• Consistent effort: Ascending a mountain isn't a sprint; it's a steady journey. Building wealth also takes time and consistent and repeated effort, whether it's regularly saving a portion of your income or making informed investment decisions – for example setting up an automatic payment from your bank account or setting a diary reminder may help you to keep on top of regular investing.  

• Overcoming challenges: The climb might be steep, the weather unpredictable, and you might face setbacks. Financially, you might encounter unexpected expenses, market downturns, regulatory changes or job loss.  Any situations demand resilience and the ability to adapt. 

• Seeking support: Climbing with a group can provide motivation and assistance. Similarly, seeking advice from financial advisers, mentors, or joining an investment club that regularly meets can be invaluable in your financial journey. 

• Perseverance and achievement: Reaching the summit of Mt Fuji takes time and perseverance. It requires patience and the commitment to stay on course even when progress seems slow. Reaching the summit offers a profound sense of accomplishment. Similarly, achieving your financial goals, whether it's buying a house, retiring early, or becoming debt-free, brings a strong sense of satisfaction and freedom.  

Just as reaching the top of Mount Fuji rewards climbers with breathtaking views, achieving financial freedom rewards you with security, peace of mind, and the ability to live life on your own terms.  

Please undertake your own research and seek the appropriate advice.