What If You Won the Lottery? (And How to Act Like You Already Did)

Imagine this: You wake up, check your Lotto ticket, and there it is - $20 million. What’s your first move? A flash car? Early retirement? Calling back Stan (your long-lost cousin who suddenly remembered it was your birthday last week)?

But here’s the thing - sudden wealth can disappear faster than you’d expect without the right plan. Whether it’s a lottery win, an inheritance, or a big bonus, money alone doesn’t create financial freedom. It’s what you do with it that matters. And truthfully, you don’t need millions to build lasting financial security. Here’s how to think - and act - like a winner, no matter what’s in your bank account.

Pause Before You Pounce

Big decisions made in excitement often lead to regret. Whether it’s a Lotto win or a big bonus, the smartest move is to hit pause. Take a breath. Make a plan. The same applies to everyday finances - whether you’re buying a car or planning a renovation. Time spent thinking is rarely wasted.
Let’s make this personal. If $1 million landed in your lap tomorrow, what would you do first?

• Pay off debt?
• Buy property?
• Travel the world?

Now ask yourself: would those choices set you up for life, or just make life exciting for a little while? Often, what we really crave isn’t stuff - it’s security, freedom and choice. And the good news? You can start building that right now, without the winning ticket.

Why Sudden Wealth Can Feel Overwhelming

You might think having a bank account full of zeroes would solve every problem. But for many lottery winners — and anyone who comes into unexpected wealth — it can be surprisingly stressful.

There's even a term for it: sudden wealth syndrome. The pressure of making the 'right' decisions, the fear of losing it all, and the new expectations from friends and family can weigh heavy. It's easy to feel paralysed or make snap decisions you later regret.

That's why pressing pause, taking time to think, and seeking advice are just as important as the money itself. It's not just about what you do with the windfall — it's how you manage the emotional side of suddenly having more choice than ever before.

Plan Like a Pro

Even with millions, it’s easy to lose your way without a plan. Here’s a framework that works for sudden windfalls and steady income alike:

• Build (or top up) an emergency fund – 3-6 months’ worth of expenses should do the trick.
• Clear any bad debt – debts with higher interest rates such as credit cards and car loans.
• Invest for the long term – ensuring you’ve got a nest egg to pursue your long-term goals.
• Make room for future goals – whether that’s property, retirement, or helping the next generation.

How Often Do Kiwis Really Win — And What Do They Do With It?

While the odds might be long, people do win big in New Zealand. In 2023 alone, there were numerous Powerball winners, each taking home life-changing sums ranging from a few million to over $30 million. The biggest jackpot on record? A $50.2 million win in February 2020, shared by two players.

So, what happens after the confetti settles? Research shows most Kiwi winners play it smart:

• Many pay off mortgages and become debt-free.
• A large number invest in property or shares to secure their long-term future.
• Travel and helping family are high on the list too.

It's not all yachts and sports cars. Most winners focus on security, freedom, and legacy — and that's exactly what smart planning can help you achieve, even without a jackpot.

Think Like a Quiet Millionaire

Here’s something you might not know; most truly wealthy people don’t look wealthy. They’re not showing off on Instagram. Instead, they’re making quiet, deliberate choices - investing in property, diversifying their portfolios, and living well within their means. That approach brings confidence, stability, and long-term freedom. The best part? You can adopt that mindset today, no matter your current balance.

The Windfall Checklist - For Lotto Wins or Life Wins

Whether you’ve landed a big bonus, an inheritance, or a bit of unexpected cash, here’s what to do:

• Pause and breathe.
• Set aside tax if needed (no surprises later).
• Top up your emergency fund.
• Clear high-interest debt.
• Invest with a long-term view, not for quick thrills.
• Plan for your goals - property, family, retirement.
• And yes, leave room for a little fun.

Let Your Money Do the Heavy Lifting

The real magic? Making your money work harder than you do. Investments, rental income, and smart financial decisions can build steady, reliable growth over time. Freedom isn’t about spending big; it’s about having choices - and never worrying about running out.

What's Your Relationship With Money?

This isn't just about numbers on a screen — it's about how money makes you feel. For some, money is safety and comfort. For others, it's a source of anxiety or pressure.

If you did win big tomorrow, would you feel calm and clear, or overwhelmed and unsure?

The good news is you don't need a Lotto win to build confidence with money. Working with a financial adviser is about more than investing or interest rates. It's about creating a plan that helps you feel secure, reduces stress, and gives you choices in life — whether it's paying off your mortgage, planning for retirement, or supporting causes that matter to you.

The Real Jackpot: Confidence and Control

The takeaway: You don't need millions to feel like you've won big. The right financial habits will set you up with security, freedom, and choices for life. So, here's a question: what small step could you take today to make your future-self feel like they've hit the jackpot?

And if you're not sure where to start, that's where advice comes in. A good financial adviser will help you make sense of your goals, your money, and the best way to get from where you are now to where you want to be. Because whether it's a Lotto win or just making smarter decisions every day, having someone in your corner makes all the difference.

Disclaimer: This article has been prepared for the purpose of providing general information, without taking into consideration any particular person's objectives, financial situation or needs. Any opinions contained in it are held by the author as at the report date and are subject to change without notice.