Our new research in partnership with Gallup reveals that money measures more than net worth. It's a day-to-day emotional experience. Confidence, alignment with personal values and a sense of security matter just as much as monetary assets – making them the most important factors in life satisfaction.

Only 12% of Canadians say their finances truly support the life they want

Across North America, the data reveals a large gap between financial stability on paper and how people actually feel about their financial lives.

Financially fulfilled Canadians don't just feel better about money — they feel better overall. They're more than five times as likely to rate their mental health as very good or excellent compared to financially stressed adults, and nearly four times as likely to say the same about their physical health. They also report stronger personal relationships and a deeper sense of community connection.

A financial plan is one of the strongest markers of financial fulfillment

While income and net worth create financial opportunity, fulfilled Canadians stand apart through consistent planning behaviours — from emergency savings to retirement plans to funds for major life events. Crucially, these behaviours remain associated with fulfillment even after adjusting for age, income and net worth.

Fulfillment isn't defined by wealth alone

  1. A sense of purpose in how money supports their life

  2. Fewer negative emotions and less financial worry

  3. Alignment between their finances and their values

  4. Higher financial control and planning

Even small shifts have big potential

Having a clear plan, making intentional tradeoffs and preparing for uncertainty are linked to reduced stress and improved wellbeing, even before reaching full stability. For those in the middle, modest and well‑timed actions can make a meaningful difference.

Professional guidance powers peace of mind

The data is clear: working with a financial advisor is the strongest driver of financial fulfillment — more than personal research, family guidance, news, or AI. In fact, financially fulfilled adults are nearly three times more likely to have worked with an advisor in the past year than those experiencing financial stress.

We can help

Fulfilled adults are 3x more likely to work with an advisor. Discover the difference.

Find an advisor