What the Back to the Future ripple effect could teach you about financial planning

It’s been 40 years since Back to the Future delighted cinema-goers with its time-travelling adventure. Teenager Marty McFly discovers the power of the “ripple effect”, and it’s something that could be valuable when you’re creating a financial plan as well.

One of the plot devices in Back to the Future is the ripple effect – the spreading impact of an initial event. Even a seemingly small change to the timeline has the potential to have far-reaching implications.

The ripple effect can change the course of your life, too. Small decisions or events outside of your control could have a far larger effect on your future than you might expect.

The good news is financial planning could give you a glimpse into the future too. While cashflow modelling doesn’t involve hopping into a DeLorean with your financial planner and reaching 88mph, it could offer you insights into your future that are just as valuable. This guide explains why.

There are other useful lessons you could pick up from Back to the Future as well, including:

Balance your short- and long-term goals.

Prioritise what makes you happy.

Focus on following your own path.

Be prepared for the unexpected.

Recognise when you could benefit from working with a professional.

If you want to talk to us about how cashflow modelling could inform your decisions, or any other aspect of your financial plan, please get in touch.

13 Jun 2025

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