When I was a kid, one of my favourite toys was Meccano. A metal building set that allowed you to do some fantastic projects. I include a fantastic crane configuration that I saw at the Kemptville Toy and Model Train Show. This is an illustrative example. It showcases the complicated projects you can create from a simple set of girders, nuts, and bolts. All you need is a lot of time on your hands. I never dared to move to any project of this complexity. However, I did enjoy the feeling of accomplishment this toy gave me.
A Financial Plan can seem as complicated as this daunting structure, but it all starts at the same point, and you need to start your plan first and foremost. Your plan can become something as magnificent as this structure, but it doesn’t have to, start small, pay off a single debt and prove to yourself you can do it, and then move on to more complex goals.
Isn’t that an Amazing looking project? It started with screws, metal and an idea, and it turned into this astounding structure.
Financial Plans Aren't This Complicated
The first step is to look where you are. Decide where you want to end up. Then, plan to join the two points.
Another excellent example was when someone asked how he made such beautiful statues out of blocks of marble. He answered, "I knock off all the parts that don't look like the final statue." It's simple. Your financial plan can be just that simple, but you need to start on it now.
Redux-> Financial Planning in 2025: Like Meccano, Still
Remember Meccano? That old-school metal construction set with nuts, bolts, and instruction manuals that rarely matched the parts in your box?
That, my friends, is what financial planning often feels like in 2025. This isn't because the tools are outdated. Building something meaningful—whether it’s a crane, a bridge, or a debt-free retirement—takes time. It requires patience and a clear plan.
? You Don’t Start With a Skyscraper
The first time I opened a Meccano set, I tried to build the most complicated thing on the box. I failed. Miserably. So I learned: start simple.
Financial planning works the same way:
- Start with one budget.
- Build one savings goal.
- Contribute to one TFSA or one RRSP.
It’s not cool and exciting. But it works.
? The Power of Compounding Confidence
Each successful build gives you confidence for the next. With money, it's no different:
- Pay off one credit card → gain momentum.
- Stick to a budget for three months → feel self-control return.
- Automate one contribution → start investing without thinking. Time to join the Couch Potatoes.
Consistency > Complexity.
? Mistakes Are Part of the Build
Ever bolt the wrong part in place and have to backtrack? Meccano taught me that mistakes don’t ruin the build—they're just part of the process.
Same with money. Bad purchase? Investment hiccup? Skipped savings month? It's not failure—it’s a reminder to pause and re-check your instructions.
? No One Blueprint, But Shared Concepts
In 2025, there are countless apps, robo-advisors, and TikTok finance influencers. But good financial planning still comes down to:
- Knowing your goals
- Using the tools available
- Staying patient through the build
You don’t need to build a financial Eiffel Tower overnight. Just start with a base. And tighten each bolt as you go.
? Start Building
Meccano taught me that building takes time. Financial planning reminded me that building wealth takes even more time.
If you stick with it, you’ll succeed one piece at a time. Then you’ll look back and realize… you actually built something great.
???
I didn’t have a toy like Meccano, but I remember my Lego set. Oh, childhood, where are you!?
Good advice. We have to start and go from there. The key word is START, don’t just talk about it.