Introduction
Angus Kirk, an independent Financial Planner at Transform FP, explores how the lyrical wisdom of Dr Seuss offers more than just childhood nostalgia. His stories may be found on children’s bookshelves, but their lessons on balance, risk, and openness resonate deeply with sound financial planning.
There’s More to Dr Seuss Than Rhymes and Riddles
The fantastical world of Dr Seuss may seem far removed from the logic of investment strategies and retirement plans. But within the colourful illustrations and sing-song verses are valuable life lessons — some of which map surprisingly well to the principles of financial planning.
With over 600 million books sold, Dr Seuss (Theodor Seuss Geisel) remains one of the most influential storytellers of all time. To mark what would have been his 120th birthday, we take a look at three timeless pieces of Seussian wisdom — and how they can guide your financial thinking.
1. “Life’s a Great Balancing Act” — And So Is Financial Planning
In Oh, the Places You’ll Go!, Dr Seuss reminds readers that life is full of twists and turns — moments of triumph and challenge, progress and pause. It’s a book beloved for graduations and new beginnings, offering both motivation and realism.
“You can steer yourself any direction you choose,” he writes. “You’re on your own. And you know what you know. And you are the guy who’ll decide where to go.”
In financial planning, this sentiment rings true. A good plan begins not with products or projections, but with purpose. What kind of life do you want to live? What matters most to you? These questions shape the destination — and inform the financial strategies that follow. But Seuss doesn’t shy away from difficulty. “I’m sorry to say so,” he cautions, “but, sadly, it’s true, that bang-ups and hang-ups can happen to you.”
This, too, is part of planning. Even with the best intentions, setbacks occur — from unexpected illness or redundancy, to market downturns or family changes. What matters is not the absence of obstacles, but the ability to adapt. Financial planning helps anticipate these moments through protection, contingency, and flexibility.
“At its core, financial planning is about balance — between living for today and preparing for tomorrow. Dr Seuss captured that duality in just a few lines.”
— Shadi Kirk, Independent Financial Planner, Transform FP
2. “Too Many Daves” — Why Diversification Matters
In the short and humorous poem Too Many Daves, we meet Mrs McCave, who named all 23 of her sons “Dave.” It’s a comic idea — but one with a pointed lesson: putting everything in one basket (or one name) can create confusion and regret.
“She didn’t do it. And now it’s too late.”
The parallel in investing is striking. When portfolios are overly concentrated — in a single stock, asset class, or market — they become vulnerable. Just as Mrs McCave found it hard to tell her Daves apart, investors may struggle to manage risk when everything looks the same. Diversification doesn’t eliminate risk, but it does help manage it. By spreading investments across sectors, geographies, and asset types, you’re better positioned to absorb volatility and respond to change.
Timing matters, too. Like Mrs McCave, many investors wait too long to diversify — only after a downturn or poor performance. But by then, it may be “too late” to rebalance without losses. A well-diversified portfolio, tailored to your goals and risk appetite, helps ensure your financial plan is resilient — not reliant on one lucky pick.
“We often say: don’t put all your eggs in one basket. But Seuss said it first — and in fewer words.”
— Shadi Kirk
3. “Try Them! Try Them!” — The Value of Listening to Advice
In Green Eggs and Ham, Sam-I-Am persistently offers a strange-looking breakfast to a reluctant diner. After many refusals — in a box, with a fox, on a train, in the rain — the protagonist finally gives in. And to his surprise, he likes it. The message? Sometimes, it pays to be open-minded.
When it comes to financial planning, new ideas or unfamiliar strategies can feel off-putting at first. Whether it’s the idea of consolidating pensions, investing rather than saving in cash, or using lesser-known tax allowances, unfamiliarity can breed resistance. But just as trying the green eggs opened up something new, so too can listening to advice.
A financial planner can introduce ideas you might not have considered — or help clarify ones you’ve heard in passing. From making use of ISA allowances, to tax-efficient gifting, to modelling an early retirement — the value of advice is in seeing what’s possible, and how to get there.
Interestingly, Green Eggs and Ham was written using just 50 words, the result of a bet between Dr Seuss and his publisher. It became one of the most popular children’s books of all time. A simple idea, brilliantly delivered — much like the best financial plans.
Conclusion: A Little Seuss, a Lot of Wisdom
Dr Seuss’s stories may speak to children, but their themes are universal. They remind us to:
- Begin with purpose
- Embrace balance
- Diversify our thinking (and our investments)
- Stay open to new ideas
Financial planning, at its best, does the same. It isn’t about complexity for its own sake, but about clarity, adaptability, and aligning your money with your life. So if your own journey feels unclear, or you’re wondering how best to move forward, perhaps the words of Dr Seuss offer the encouragement you need: “Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting. So… get on your way!”
Let’s Talk About the ‘Places You’ll Go’
Whether you’re planning for retirement, thinking about your children’s future, or simply want more clarity over your finances, we’re here to help. Get in touch today to arrange a conversation with one of our advisers — and begin the next chapter in your financial journey.
Important disclaimer: This article is for general information only and does not constitute financial advice. The information is aimed at retail clients only. The value of your investment 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. The Financial Conduct Authority does not regulate estate planning, tax planning, or will writing. We recommend that you speak to a qualified financial planner for advice tailored to your individual circumstances and goals.
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