How Building IKEA Furniture Is Basically Just Financial Planning in Disguise
You know that moment when you open an IKEA box, see 72 pieces, panic slightly, and then try to “wing it” without the instructions? hahahahakillmenowhahahah.
That’s most people and money.
Spoiler: the outcome is usually the same — wobbly, unstable, and someone ends up crying on the floor.
Because whether it’s a flat-pack wardrobe or your long-term finances, the truth is this: If you don’t plan properly, it falls apart.
📝 Step 1: Read the Instructions Before You Start
When it comes to money, people love to dive in. Buy stocks before they understand risk. Lock cash into a fixed-rate bond and forget they have rent due. Invest in a friend’s “startup” because it sounded cool after two cocktails.
Financial planning isn’t just doing stuff. It’s doing the right stuff, in the right order.
Budget → Build a buffer → Protect what you have → Then invest.
Yes, it’s less sexy than going straight to crypto. But neither is rebuilding a collapsed shelving unit at midnight.
🔩 Step 2: Use the Right Tools
Imagine trying to build a bookcase with a teaspoon. That’s what it’s like trying to sort your finances with no structure, no system, and vibes alone.
Use the tools:
Budgeting spreadsheets
Expenditure trackers
Pension calculators
Multi-asset funds
A decent Financial Planner (hi 👋)
These are your Allen keys. Don’t leave them in the box.
📉 Step 3: Know When You’ve Skipped a Step
That moment when the drawers don’t close and you realise you missed a bolt six pages back? That’s the money equivalent of trying to max out your Stocks & Shares ISA before you’ve cleared your high interest credit card.
It’s not a disaster. But it means you need to pause, go back, and do it properly.
No one gets it perfect the first time — but guessing your way through costs more in the long run.
🧼 Step 4: Stand Back and Admire What You Built
When you follow the plan, stay calm, and don’t throw anything at the wall, something magical happens: You actually finish it.
It works. And it doesn’t wobble every time you breathe near it.
That’s what good financial planning feels like. Quiet. Functional. Solid. You might not win awards for it — but you’ll sleep better.
💡 Final Thought
The IKEA manual might be in Swedish.
Financial planning might be in jargon.
But both become manageable when you slow down, follow the steps, and resist the urge to throw money (or dowels) at the problem.
Skip the chaos. Build the life. Just use the instructions.
p.s. not advice obvs!
This article would be correct as at the time of writing but as we know; rules and regulations can change. Seek advice before taking any action.