Many of us have experienced those moments when the constant demands on our time and attention get to be too much and we want to disappear to a quiet beach and avoid the world for a few days – if not longer. Unfortunately, that type of escape is generally not a realistic long-term solution to stress. So, how can we achieve mental tranquility and clear our minds more regularly? It takes practice, but a shift in perspective can help. Enter fjaka, a Croatian term for a state of mind that involves removing distractions, taking stock of life, and being carefree. Not to be confused with laziness or fatigue, fjaka is about mindfulness, slowing down, and letting go of urgency and stress. Fjaka is practiced differently by everyone, but the goal remains the same: appreciating the beauty of moments free from the pressures of productivity. It holds great cultural significance, and its overarching themes apply to various aspects of life.

The ideas and philosophies behind fjaka align closely with the practice of holistic wealth management. Holistic wealth management stretches beyond mere transactions and investment strategies. It is a big-picture approach that takes into account your finances, physical health, emotional and social well-being, as well as your values, goals, and life plans. A good wealth advisor will work with you to develop an approach that incorporates those elements into cash flow management, investing, tax planning, estate planning, and charitable giving.

Holistic wealth management allows you to create a balanced, personalized plan, to support you in the present and future – and to free you to practice fjaka in the way that best suits you. Some parallels between fjaka and holistic planning include:  

1. Mindfulness and Balance: Fjaka prioritizes mindfulness and balance in life. Holistic wealth management uses a balanced approach, involving working with your advisor to set realistic goals and budgets and ensuring financial decisions align with your long-term well-being.
2. Less Stress: While fjaka aims to lower stress in all aspects of life, holistic wealth management seeks to reduce financial anxiety through clear, comprehensive planning. With a strong, goal-oriented plan, there is more room to focus on the other important things in life.
3. Looking Long Term: Fjaka is about finding contentment in the present to promote long-term happiness and satisfaction. Holistic wealth management has similar values that aim to help you and your advisor make informed decisions to secure your financial future and enhance life satisfaction.
4. Personalizing Goals and Strategies: How you practice fjaka will look different than it will for your peers. It is curated for you and by you. With holistic wealth management, this translates to creating a personalized financial plan tailored to individual needs and life goals, ensuring a unique and effective approach to your financial well-being.

This blend of financial security and mental tranquility can help you focus on leading a more fulfilling and enriched life. It is ideal for individuals and families seeking a comprehensive plan for their future. By prioritizing financial health and personal well-being, individuals can put themselves in a better position to achieve a state of financial wellness that aligns with the relaxed and content state of fjaka.