With the trend now to retire earlier rather than later, this obviously brings the focus towards a need to plan sooner rather than later.

As we are now living longer this also means that the earlier we take action and the sooner we clarify our lifestyle needs in retirement, the better.

To ensure our client is well prepared for retirement, Clearwater International's lifestyle financial planning process will focus clients’ minds on:

• When to retire

• How much to save

• Debt management

• Inflation proofing

• Risk - return ratios

• Asset structures and mix

• Income needed

• Tax planning

By the end of this process the client should feel comfortable with their retirement needs and are clear about the plan implementation.

Remember, it's never too early to start planning.