It is often said that we know more about the moon than we do about the sea.
Indeed, despite taking up 71% of the Earth’s surface area, How Science Works reports that 95% of our oceans remain unexplored.
Who knows what creatures live in the depths of our own planet that we have yet to discover? Even many of the ones we do know about are mysterious and have behaviour patterns we don’t fully understand.
8 June was World Ocean Day, and while the seas may seem like a world away from your financial plan portfolio, some of its strangest inhabitants have surprising wisdom to offer.
From teamwork to adaptability, read on to find out how these curious creatures can help illuminate some key principles of successful financial planning.
1. The octopus and the importance of adaptation
With their extraordinary intelligence, advanced camouflage abilities, and the uncanny talent to squeeze through the tiniest of gaps, octopuses are true masters of adaptation.
They can instantly change colour and texture to blend into their surroundings, whether to evade predators, communicate with others, or ambush prey, making them some of the most versatile creatures in the ocean.
In much the same way, your financial plan should be built to adapt. Life is full of unexpected changes. Whether it’s a new addition to the family, the death of a loved one, a career shift, or sudden health issues, these events can dramatically alter your financial landscape, and a rigid plan may quickly become outdated or ineffective.
A well-structured financial plan isn’t static and should be reviewed regularly and adjusted as needed. Flexibility is what helps your plan stay relevant and resilient through times of uncertainty.
Just as the octopus thrives by responding to its environment, by remaining agile and open to change, you will be better equipped to stay on course, no matter what life throws your way.
2. The Greenland shark and the focus on slow, steady growth
The Greenland shark is one of the longest living vertebrates on Earth. Indeed, in 2016, the BBC reported on the discovery of one that was found to be around 400 years old, though they are believed to live up to 500 years.
As well as their long lifespans, Greenland sharks are also “indeterminate growers”, which means they grow throughout their entire lives at a rate of about one centimetre a year.
It’s safe to say that Greenland sharks are in it for the long haul and take a very slow and steady approach to their (incredibly) long-term growth.
When it comes to your financial plan, taking a similarly patient, long-term approach to investing can yield powerful results. Just like the Greenland shark grows gradually over centuries, building wealth steadily over time — through consistent saving, investing, and compounding — is one of the most reliable ways to achieve financial success.
While it might be tempting to chase short-term gains or react emotionally to market fluctuations, a disciplined, long-term mindset can help weather volatility and deliver meaningful growth. The key is to stay committed to your plan, even when progress feels slow.
A strong financial strategy doesn’t hinge on dramatic leaps, but on the quiet, consistent progress that compounds over years and decades. Much like the Greenland shark, the size of the rewards of patience and persistence often reveal themselves further down the line, but they can be well worth the wait.
3. The clownfish and the value of teamwork
Beyond being the star of the Finding Nemo movie franchise, the clownfish is also known for its bright colours and its unusual, symbiotic relationship with sea anemones.
While the anemone’s stinging tentacles offer the clownfish protection from predators, the clownfish returns the favour by cleaning the anemone and providing it with leftover food. Together, they form a perfect partnership where both thrive.
In financial planning, partnerships can be just as vital. Whether you’re combining tax allowances with a spouse, developing an estate plan that reflects your family’s shared goals, or building a long-term relationship with a trusted financial planner, collaboration often leads to stronger outcomes.
Like the clownfish and anemone, these partnerships are built on trust, communication, and mutual benefit. A reliable support network can offer protection in uncertain times, guidance through complexity, and the clarity needed to grow and preserve your wealth over the long term.
Get in touch
Though they may not be much help navigating the depths of the ocean, a financial planner can help you chart a clear course through your life. By understanding your goals, needs, and risk tolerance, they can create a tailored plan that keeps you on track, whether the waters are calm or choppy.
To speak to a financial planner, get in touch.
Email us at hello@vwmwealth.com or call us on 0141 229 4004.
Please note
This article is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at retail clients only.
All information is correct at the time of writing and is subject to change in the future.
The value of your investments (and any income from them) can go down as well as up and you may not get back the full amount you invested. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance.
