No matter where you are in life, it’s always a good idea to check whether you are still on track financially to retire. To help you get a better understanding of your personal financial circumstances, we’ve created this quiz. Write down the letters that best describe your answer to each of the questions, and check your results to find out where you stand.
What’s your financial situation now, compared to three years ago?
A. Worse
B. About the same
C. Better
D. It was great until the kids came along
Which of these bad habits apply to you?
A. I spend more than I earn
B. I don’t have an emergency fund
C. I’m not saving enough for my retirement
D. Actually, I’m all good
How do you feel about the future?
A. Very worried
B. Slightly nervous
C. Cautiously optimistic
D. Confident
Do you have children?
A. No
B. Not yet
C. Yes, but they’re grown up
D. Yes, and they’re still in school
What’s your next big purchase/expense?
A. I’m just aiming for the end of the month
B. A house
C. Retirement
D. My child’s education
What’s your dream holiday?
A. Any holiday would be good B. A tropical beach resort
C. Somewhere quiet, away from the crowds
D. A tour of Europe’s museums and art galleries
What’s in your wallet?
A. A bunch of store cards and my trusty credit card
B. Some cash, which I intend to spend this weekend!
C. Credit card, driver’s license, photo of the grandchildren
D. Cash, cards and slip to remind me of my kid’s dental appointment
Which of these are you most worried about?
A. Today
B. Tomorrow
C. My future
D. My children’s future
Results:
Mostly As
Before you can start planning for your future, you have to sort out your finances. Take control by drawing up a household budget and by signing up for our Financial Wellbeing Programme.
Mostly Bs
You might not be in the best space when it comes to saving. Not to worry, downloading our Savings Calculator will help you get back onto the right savings track.
Mostly Cs
Sounds like you’re already thinking of your retirement. That’s good – it’s never too soon to start. Our Retirement Calculator will show whether or not you’re on the right track. Have a look, and then speak to your financial adviser.
Mostly Ds
Your focus is on your children right now, but given how few South Africans are saving enough, it’s quite possible that you’re not entirely prepared for their education. Run the numbers through our online Education Calculator to see what expenses you have to take into account.
Disclaimer: This article does not constitute nor replace professional financial advice. Worried that you might not be saving enough? Speak to an Old Mutual financial adviser, who’ll help you to save in the present while building wealth for the future. Call 0860 468 378.
This article originally appeared in Today magazine, issue 1 2019. Read the latest issue here.
By Mark van Dijk
Mark is an award-winning writer who focuses on business and industry news.