How Much Is Enough?

One of the most common questions we hear from our clients is: “Do I have enough?”

It’s an honest question, and a very human one. Enough for what, though? Enough to retire? Enough to help the kids? Enough to not worry about money anymore?

Recently, I reread a book that really speaks to this exact question and the underlying psychology behind it, titled “Enough? How Much Money Do You Need for The Rest of Your Life?” by Paul D. Armson. It’s a short, simple book, but the message is powerful:

Financial planning isn’t about how much money you can get. It’s about figuring out how much is enough to live the life you really want to live.

The “Enough” Mindset

In the book, Armson talks about how most people don’t actually want more money. What they really want is what they think money will give them: peace of mind, freedom, security, confidence.

That mindset shift changes the game. Instead of chasing some magic number that may or may not even matter, you start by asking:

• What does my ideal life look like?
• What are the experiences I still want to have?
• What would I regret not doing?

Once you answer those questions, then the money questions become clearer and more meaningful.

Our Financial Planning Approach

The best financial advice doesn’t start with RRSPs, TFSAs, rates of return, or market forecasts. It starts with a conversation about life:

• What excites you?
• What keeps you up at night?
• What kind of future do you actually want?

From there, we can calculate your personal “enough” number, a.k.a. the amount of money you need to fund your lifestyle, on your terms. And more importantly, we can build a plan around it so you can stop worrying and start living.

When you know what “enough” looks like:

• You gain clarity.
• You stop comparing yourself to others.
• You stop chasing more, just because.
• You start making decisions from a place of confidence, not fear.

And to us, that’s what real financial planning is all about.

Let’s Talk About Your “Enough”

If this message resonates with you, let’s have a chat. Whether you’re five years from retirement, already retired, or just feeling unsure about where things stand, we’d love to help you define what “enough” means for you – and show you how close you may already be.

Because the goal isn’t just to grow your money. It’s to help you live a life that’s full, rich, and truly yours.

About Shea Sanche

Shea Sanche, CFP®, is the founder of Insight Planning Wealth Management and has worked as a financial advisor since 1999. He specializes in financial planning, retirement strategy, and decision frameworks for Canadian families and business owners, with a focus on simplifying complex financial decisions and long-term wealth planning.

He is the creator of Insight 360 OS, a decision and life-design system built to help clients navigate financial complexity, uncertainty, and major life transitions.

Common Questions About This Topic

How much do I need to retire in Canada?

It depends on after-tax spending, inflation, longevity, and how income sources fit together. Strong plans model CPP/OAS timing and withdrawal sequencing, not just a single number.

Should I take CPP early or defer it?

Deferring CPP increases guaranteed lifetime income, but the right choice depends on health, other income, and tax interactions (including OAS clawback).

What is the best withdrawal order in retirement?

There is no universal order. Strong plans coordinate RRSP/RRIF, TFSA, and non-registered withdrawals to manage marginal tax rates and benefit clawbacks over time.