In financial planning, we often concentrate on accumulating wealth, maximising investments and preparing for a secure future. While these are essential goals, there is another, equally important, dimension that often gets overlooked: the power of giving.
This article is an invitation – to pause, reflect and consider how giving fits into your life. Is generosity a natural part of your everyday existence? If not, what steps can you take to make it one?
We recently heard Daniel Crosby speak at a conference in London. He said:
“True wealth is not measured by what we accumulate, but by what we give away. Charitable giving enriches our lives in ways that material wealth cannot.”
It is a truth that hits home. In conversations with clients preparing for retirement, we often ask them to rate themselves across five life areas:
- Connection to others
- Mental stimulation
- Physical stimulation
- Creativity
- Charity
Again and again, the last two – Creativity and Charity – tend to be areas with the least focus. Yet these are also where some of the greatest opportunities for meaning and impact lie.
Understanding the Benefits of Giving
There is wisdom in the old saying: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” The benefits of giving, in fact, often lean heavily toward the giver. Here are four key reasons why:
- Personal Growth
Giving shifts the focus away from yourself. This change in perspective can be profoundly healing and energising. It fosters a sense of purpose and fulfilment that money alone cannot provide.
- Experience Sharing
You have built up a wealth of experience through your life and career. That knowledge can be a lifeline to organisations striving to grow, adapt or survive. Many describe a “helper’s high” after sharing what they know and seeing the tangible difference it makes.
- Community Building
Giving is not just about financial support. It is about relationships, mentorship, and creating systems of support. When we give time, wisdom and presence, we create stronger, more resilient communities.
- Spiritual Connection
Every major faith and philosophy speaks to the importance of giving. It connects us to something greater than ourselves. As the Dalai Lama puts it:
“If you think you are too small to make a difference, try sleeping with a mosquito.”
Even small acts can have profound effects.
Taking Action
Understanding the benefits is one thing—doing something about it is another.
Let us give you an example close to our hearts. At Veritas, we have long supported an organisation called CoolPlay. They work with young people, using sport and education to build life skills and resilience.
CoolPlay is making a big impact, but they are in urgent need of retired professionals—not just for financial support, but for mentorship. While an advisory committee meets quarterly, what the team really needs is hands-on guidance from people with lived experience: helping to shape leadership, decision-making and organisational direction.
This is where you could make a real, lasting difference.
What Else Can You Do?
- Revisit your Will: Have you considered including a charitable gift in your estate planning? These donations often come with tax benefits and can provide lifeblood to causes you care about.
- Start small: A monthly donation – no matter the size – can be enormously valuable to NGOs, many of which are struggling right now.
- Leverage your network: Your connections can open doors, build bridges, and unlock opportunities that help organisations thrive long-term.
Giving is a powerful tool that can enrich your life and the lives of others. It is about more than just financial contributions, it is about sharing experience, building communities and fostering personal growth. Take a moment to reflect on your giving journey and consider how you can make a meaningful impact.
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