I’m writing this while overseas in Japan on a two-week holiday with my kids. It’s our first overseas trip together with me as a solo parent and it’s been an incredible experience so far. While planning the trip, I set a savings goal and was excited to fund the holiday entirely without credit (I talk about it here). The idea of returning home without debt felt empowering. What I didn’t anticipate, was how uncomfortable I’d feel spending the money I’d worked so hard to save.

Have you ever felt like your life is happening to you, rather than you actually shaping it? Imagine what it would feel like to wake up each day knowing that every choice you make is contributing to a life that truly reflects who you are and what you value most. That’s what lifestyle design is all about, it’s not about adding more to your life but refining it with purpose and simplicity.