The "Best" Investment You Can Make Just in Time for New Years

As a financial planner, I frequently encounter the question, “What’s the best investment currently available?” For a long time, I found it challenging to provide a definitive answer. The reality is that what constitutes a “best investment” is deeply personal, influenced by factors such as risk tolerance, life stage, and individual goals. However, a few weeks ago, I had a revelation: there is indeed a clear answer to this question. 

For those of you who partner with me, you know that I strive to incorporate your unique values into our comprehensive planning process. This approach is fundamental to our relationship. Think of me as your household’s Chief Financial Officer, dedicated to ensuring that your financial decisions align with what truly matters to you and your family. 

While we often view money as the primary resource for achieving our aspirations, there is one vital element that connects all aspects of our lives—from the moment we rise in the morning to the time we settle in for the night: our health. 

Many of my clients are hardworking individuals who have diligently earned every dollar over their lifetimes. Yet, what is the true value of those funds if we can’t leverage them to live a meaningful and fulfilling life? I’ve seen firsthand the impact of neglecting health investments; it often leads to a cascade of challenges down the road. 

During my decade-long tenure at a large financial firm, I had the privilege of working with over 1,000 retirees. Many of them shared stories of how they had postponed their health investments, only to find themselves spending thousands later on prescriptions, surgeries, and treatments that could have been avoided. This not only strained their finances but also limited their ability to participate in the activities that brought them joy—whether that was skiing, traveling with family, or simply enjoying the freedom of an active lifestyle. 

A significant reason many people delay investing in their health is the perceived costs associated with it. It’s important to acknowledge that health investments can be substantial but viewing them through the lens of “investment” rather than “expense” can shift your perspective. Just as you would invest in a stock or real estate, investing in your health is an opportunity to enhance your life—an investment that will pay dividends for years to come. 

To share a personal example, I recently made a concerted effort to focus on my own health, specifically muscle recovery and mobility. A gym opened nearby, offering professional stretching assistance designed to help individuals achieve deeper stretches than they might on their own. After months of meaning to go, I finally booked a session, and the experience was transformative. I felt rejuvenated, and it wasn’t long before I signed up for a membership, which costs around $170 a month in my area. This is in addition to the gym and cycling memberships my family already maintains, bringing our total health-related investments to about $300 a month. 

As we approach the end of the year and reflect on our resolutions, it’s the perfect time to consider how we can prioritize self-improvement. It’s never too late to embark on your health journey. You deserve to reap the rewards of your hard work and sacrifices, enjoying life to its fullest. 

So, I pose this question to you: “What will you do? How will you invest in your health?” While this investment may not appear on a traditional balance sheet, the returns—both for you and your family—will be immeasurable. Embrace this opportunity to secure not only your financial future but also a vibrant, fulfilling life.