Chris Budd: Three steps to wellbeing - but which is first?

Where to start in a circle?

clock • 3 min read

In this month’s financial wellbeing column, Chris Budd looks at the three steps to happiness – and why you need to start with step two.

Let's start with a riddle. When you want to walk in a circle, where should you start? You can't say ‘from the beginning' because there isn't one. You might say ‘from where I am' but how do you know that's the best place? You might suggest that you should start anywhere except for where you are - the ‘I wouldn't start from here' argument. You might even argue whether it actually matters where you start at all if you plan to walk in a circle. This dilemma can create the worst outcome of all - you don't start walking at all. And this, I'd suggest, is what happens when we start t...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Your profession

Advised clients want more personal investment communication

Advised clients want more personal investment communication

Four in ten say comms focused more on product than goals

Jenna Brown
clock 12 November 2026 • 3 min read
How economic abuse manifests itself in pensions, mortgages and protection

How economic abuse manifests itself in pensions, mortgages and protection

Second in a three part series

Shelley Read
clock 11 November 2026 • 5 min read
Celtic FP founder launches online admin platform for advisers

Celtic FP founder launches online admin platform for advisers

‘Developed by people who understand the industry’

Jenna Brown
clock 10 November 2026 • 2 min read