But these moments aren’t only limited to the final quarter of the year; they also happen when we celebrate birthdays, graduations, weddings, funerals, new jobs and other milestones that give us opportunity to pause and reflect.

Sometimes we can be quite content with what we’re reflecting on, and other times it can be a sobering moment that causes us to check in with our risk and protection planning; all those “what if” scenarios.

As we wrote once before in a blog, and often share in client meetings, life is full of surprises and our forethought can protect us from any harsh realities that are thrown our way. Unforeseen events (sometimes on a global scale) can happen in a heartbeat.

We should consider the steps we can take to maintain our quality and fullness of life, that we enjoy in good health and wealth, when these events happen.

These are some of the ways that we can help you provide for yourself and your family.

Medical Cover

There are many advantages to having medical cover. It financially protects us if we suddenly have to pay high, unexpected medical costs. Costs such as surgery, medicine, nursing and hospital care can cripple our finances. It also gives us access to private medical care instead of relying on public health services.

Choosing the right medical cover will depend on your budget and specific healthcare needs. While there are prescribed minimum benefits in place, the medical industry keeps evolving and changing. That is why it is essential to stay up-to-date with what benefits you receive and what kind of coverage you are provided.

Life Assurance and Insurance

Life cover is often purchased begrudgingly. But when it comes to something as vital as providing for your family in your absence, especially if you are the sole breadwinner, it’s best to have all bases covered.

Some people aren’t sure about the difference between life insurance and assurance. Life insurance covers you for a predetermined length of time, such as ten, fifteen or twenty years.

Due to the uncertainty of whether you will claim on an insurance policy, the premiums tend to be more cost-effective. Life assurance, on the other hand, covers you for your whole life, and there is 100% chance that the policy will pay out. The premiums for life assurance are generally higher as a result.

Life cover not only eases the family’s immediate financial burden, but also provides for future expenses, such as your children’s education. This can provide some much-needed relief during a particularly stressful time.

Disability or Dread Disease Cover

If you fall seriously ill or are injured, you can become permanently disabled. Disability and dread disease cover (also known as critical illness cover) offers support to you, and your family, when having to deal with a sudden and impactful change to your everyday lifestyle.

These policies can help you to adapt your car and your home to support your disability, or you and your family can use them to cover basic living expenses whilst you recuperate. They allow you to maintain independence and control over your life. The cost of these policies depends on your age and risk profile, among other things.

Insurance is one of those things that you don’t really need, until you REALLY need it. If you feel you are not sufficiently covered, let us look at your current policies – let’s get in touch.