Giving While Living: A Financial Advisor’s Take on Spending with Purpose
In recent years, the idea of “dying with zero”—popularized by Bill Perkins—has gained traction. Several of our friends have read it and talk about it enthusiastically, so my wife and I decided to read it and figure out what all of the buzz was about. As it turns out, the book is not very different from what I consider a well-constructed financial plan to be.
At its core, the philosophy encourages individuals to maximize life experiences and intentionally spend their assets rather than leaving significant unused wealth behind.
As a financial advisor, I find this concept both compelling and, at times, misunderstood. The goal isn’t recklessness—it’s intentionality. At Atlas, we refer to this as Giving while Living.
It Starts with a Shift in Mindset
Traditional financial planning has long emphasized accumulation: save more, invest wisely, preserve capital. While those principles remain important, they are only part of the equation. Wealth is a tool, not an end in itself. The question becomes: What is this money ultimately for?
Giving while living reframes the objective. Instead of asking how much you can leave behind, it asks how effectively you can use your resources to create a meaningful life. Essentially, what are your life expectations and goals?
Time Is the Most Valuable Asset
One of the most important insights behind this philosophy is that experiences have a time value. The ability to hike through Yosemite National Park at age 55 is not the same as attempting it at 80. Likewise, helping your children with a home purchase in their 30s may have a far greater impact than leaving them a larger inheritance decades later.
Strategic spending—at the right time—can create disproportionate value.
Balance Is Critical
However, the phrase “die with zero” should not be interpreted literally. Life is uncertain. Longevity risk, healthcare costs, and market volatility all require a margin of safety.
A well-constructed plan should aim for efficient depletion, not exact depletion. In practice, that means:
- Maintaining a buffer for unexpected expenses
- Planning conservatively for lifespan
- Adjusting withdrawals over time as circumstances evolve
The objective is to minimize regret, not just your account balance.
Give With a Warm Hand, Not a Cold One
Many clients find fulfillment in giving during their lifetime rather than through an estate. Whether it’s supporting family, funding education, or contributing to causes they care about, the emotional return is often far greater when you can witness the impact.
This approach also allows for more thoughtful, intentional giving—aligned with your values. At Atlas, we build your personalized financial plan around these goals, wishes, and wants.
Permission to Spend—Strategically
One of the most common challenges I see is that disciplined savers struggle to transition into spenders. They’ve spent decades being told to save, and suddenly the plan tells them it’s okay to enjoy their money.
A structured withdrawal strategy can provide that permission. When spending is guided by a plan, it becomes purposeful rather than indulgent.
Final Thought
Giving while living is not about depleting wealth at all costs—it’s about aligning your financial resources with the life you want to live.
The real risk is not dying with too few assets. For many, it’s living with too many regrets.
Spend wisely. Give intentionally. And use your wealth in a way that fully supports the life you’ve worked so hard to build.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute personalized financial advice. Please consult with a financial advisor regarding your specific situation.