Time, Money, and the Relationships That Shape Our Lives

At Tanner Wealth, we often say that true wealth is about more than numbers—it’s about alignment. And few things reveal our priorities more than how we relate to time and money.

These two resources are deeply intertwined. Both are limited. Both can be spent, invested, and/or wasted. And both can either work for you—or quietly work against you.

Time Is Money… But It's Also More Than Money

We’ve all heard the phrase, “Time is money.” And while there’s truth in that, it doesn’t tell the whole story.

For most, time is far more valuable. You can earn back money, but you can’t earn back time. Once it’s gone, it’s gone. That’s why intentional planning can be so important. Financial planning is, in many ways, time planning.

It’s about giving your future self more margin. It’s about buying back hours with your kids, with your spouse, with the passions and pursuits that give life meaning. And it’s about being free—not just to retire someday, but to live well now.

The Relationship Between Time and Money

Time and money are not enemies—but they are often in constant negotiation. If you’re not careful, you’ll spend your time always trying to make money and never get around to spending your money on what matters most. On the other hand, without wise stewardship, you may run out of resources before you run out of days.

A good plan can help you bring these two forces into harmony. The goal isn’t to sacrifice one for the other—it’s to let them support one another.

Imagine using money as a tool to buy time—whether it’s delegating tasks so you can be more present, retiring early, traveling with your family, or giving generously to causes close to your heart.

On the flip side, wise use of time—like learning, planning, and investing early—can help grow your financial future in exponential ways.

What Kind of Relationship Do You Have?

If time and money were people in your life, how would you describe your relationship with them? Are they working together in peace—or pulling you in different directions?

Healthy relationships require attention and alignment. The same can be true with your finances and your calendar.

At Tanner Wealth, we walk with clients through the seasons of life—from accumulation to preservation to legacy. Our goal is not just to manage wealth, but to help you live a more intentional life. A life where your time and your money reflect your values and your vision.

Because at the end of the day, how you spend your time is how you spend your life. And how you steward your money shapes what kind of life that becomes.

Final Thought

The wisest financial plans aren’t always just about maximizing return—they’re often about maximizing meaning. Let’s help make sure your money and your time are telling the same story.

By John Tanner, VP | Regional Leader | Wealth Advisor

FI Advisors, Inc.

913 N PATTERSON STVALDOSTA, GA 31601

229-232-8211

Securities and insurance products are offered through Cetera Investment Services LLC (doing insurance business in CA as CFG STC Insurance Agency LLC), member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services are offered through Cetera Investment Advisers LLC. Neither firm is affiliated with the financial institution where investment services are offered. Advisory services are only offered by Investment Adviser Representatives. Investments are: Not FDIC/NCUSIF insured May lose value Not financial institution guaranteed Not a deposit *Not insured by any federal government agency.