LEVEL UP YOUR LIFE | When life gives no warning…Plan for the unexpected

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One step ahead… BSP Life Risk Analyst Aca Tuimacuata stays ahead by planning early and thinking long term. Picture: KATA KOLI

LIFE doesn’t wait until you’re ready, but planning early gives you better control of your future and the space to make better choices.

That reality set in early for Aca Tuimacuata as he watched people close to him struggle with sudden health issues and financial pressure.

“When you’re not prepared, it’s not just you who suffers – it affects everyone who depends on you,” he says.

“Without a solid base of financial protection, the stress and uncertainty can be overwhelming.”

That understanding did not come from early guidance.

“Growing up, life insurance wasn’t really a topic of conversation in my family or social circles. It wasn’t something adults openly talked about, so awareness was quite limited,” Tuimacuata says.

As a result, insurance was never on the horizon when he entered the workforce.

“I did not know much about life insurance before joining BSP Life. I thought life insurance was something for later in life – something distant and not urgent.”

Moving with intention

That perception changed as he began to understand the consequences of delaying decisions.

“I learned that waiting means higher costs, fewer options, and more risk,” he says. “What pushed me to act was understanding that starting early gives you control – over your future, your finances, and your responsibilities.”

For Tuimacuata, taking out life insurance was not about anticipating worst-case scenarios. It was about stability and intention.

“As a young professional, I’ve learned how important it is to build good financial habits early. For me, it’s about knowing that when I do start a family, I’ll be more financially stable. That thought gives me a sense of purpose and peace of mind.”

A new way of thinking

That decision also changed how he approached everyday financial choices. It made him more intentional.

“I started planning ahead, thinking long-term, and being disciplined with my money. It shifted my mindset from just living in the moment to building something sustainable for the future.”

The benefits, he says, have been practical and measurable.

“It’s helped me stay committed to my goals, build structured savings, and prepare for big milestones,” Tuimacuata says.

“The cash returns from my policies support things like education plans, emergency funds, and overall financial stability. I can leverage my life insurance policy to secure financing for a home, land, or vehicle.”

Action over delay

Looking back, the BSP Life risk analyst believes postponing that step would have left him in a very different position.

“I’d probably still be putting off important financial decisions and feeling uncertain about my future. I would have missed out on lower premiums, better coverage, and the confidence that comes with being prepared.”

He says time is the advantage young people often overlook.

“Time is your biggest advantage,” Tuimacuata says. “Starting early helps you build discipline, spread the cost, and let your money work for you. Waiting only limits your options and increases your risk.”

The right time is now

At the same time, he acknowledges the financial pressures many young people in Fiji face.

“Young people often balance family obligations, education, housing, and daily living costs,” he says.

“Starting small, choosing flexible policies, and viewing insurance as a long-term investment rather than an expense helps overcome these barriers.”

His message to young adults considering life insurance is straightforward.

“Take control of your future rather than waiting for life to force you into it,” Tuimacuata says.

“Start now. Don’t wait for the ‘right time’ because the right time is early. It doesn’t have to be big – just be consistent.”