13 Feb 2025 Rethinking Wealth: Lessons from Die With Zero
Managing money often means juggling competing priorities—giving generously, saving for retirement, helping our kids with college, paying down the mortgage—all while trying to create meaningful experiences along the way. My wife, Crystal, and I strive to be intentional about where our money goes, but it’s always worth pausing to reflect. That’s why Die With Zero by Bill Perkins caught my attention. It challenges the conventional approach to wealth and invites us to prioritize experiences and intentional giving over merely accumulating for the future.
Most financial plans focus on growing and preserving wealth, but what if the goal wasn’t just accumulation? What if the real aim was to maximize life experiences? Perkins argues that many people over-save, delaying enjoyment until a future that’s never guaranteed. His philosophy isn’t about reckless spending but about ensuring that money funds meaningful experiences at the right stages of life. It’s about balancing financial security with truly living—rather than leaving behind an oversized inheritance simply because we never allowed ourselves to enjoy what we worked so hard to build.
One of the ideas that resonated with me is the “personal utility curve”—the concept that money’s value changes depending on our age and circumstances. The experiences that bring the most joy in our 40s or 50s may not hold the same appeal in our 70s or 80s. That perspective encourages us to plan for peak experiences while we have the health and energy to enjoy them. If you’ve always dreamed of a big family trip, waiting until retirement might not be the best strategy. Thoughtful financial planning can help make those experiences happen earlier without jeopardizing long-term security.
Another powerful takeaway is the idea of giving while you’re alive. Many people plan to leave a financial legacy for their children or charities, but Perkins challenges us to consider the impact of giving earlier—when we can see the difference it makes. Whether it’s helping a child buy their first home, funding a grandchild’s education, or supporting a cause close to your heart, early giving can be more rewarding and impactful than waiting to pass on wealth in a will. With the right estate and tax planning, these gifts can be both strategic and deeply meaningful.
As a financial advisor—and a natural saver—Die With Zero made me reconsider my own habits. I’ve always prioritized financial prudence, making sure we’re saving enough for the future. Crystal already helps me keep a healthy perspective, but Perkins’ message made me reflect on whether I’m also making space to use money in ways that create lasting memories. Wealth isn’t just about security; it’s a tool for living fully. That doesn’t mean abandoning financial discipline, but it does mean being intentional about using money to enrich our lives while we can.
If you’ve ever wondered how to strike the right balance between saving for the future and making the most of the present, let’s talk. After all, the goal isn’t just to accumulate wealth—it’s to use it in a way that leads to a richer, more fulfilling life.
