Money topics tend to speak in terms of absolute numbers such as a $250k mortgage or 8% return, or a portfolio of $500k. It is helpful to break down the numbers into a monthly figure so they are relatable to day-to-day cash flow requirements.

When you are making a financial transaction, always consider what the monthly income will be from the investment − either while the money is invested or when you plan to access it. Likewise, consider what amount of income is required to maintain a loan, or was required to earn the money you are investing or paying out. The key is to ask yourself or your advisor to connect your transactions to an income variable for both today and the future.