People often, tell us "we're just not planners. We like to go with the flow." There is something very freeing about not making a plan and being surprised about what lies around the corner. Not trying to fight the flow of living, being present, is a really glorious feeling. In our lives, we plan because it allows us to be more spontaneous. That may seem like a contradiction, but it is not. With a certain level of preparation and planning, we can truly focus on the present and enjoy what is right in front of us. It is called having a safety net. That net can be money, but it can be a lot of additional things as well: a trusted person to contact, a folder of important documents, beneficiaries. A safety net requires planning. That's the place of tension for many people in terms of planning for the time when they can longer work in the same way they are now, a time when they need to have resources prepared for unexpected life craziness, or just to be able to take advantage of a new opportunity. Lots of us use credit cards as that safety net. But those are a short-term stop gap, not a safety net. Financial planning is a huge part of building a safety net, whether it is for retirement, bucket list travel, unexpected medical expenses or whatever else is on your list. Over-planning and under-planning can both be used to mask fears and anxieties about the future. Understanding what level is good and healthy can be difficult. Some of us use planning as tool for resisting change. It can become the obstacle. It can also provide great comfort to embrace opportunities. And knowing how to distinguish is no easy feat. Financial planning is the foundation of our role, helping you find balance between under- and over-planning. Helping you feel confident in decisions based on solid analysis and compassionate conversations. We base investments on your plans and we adjust them as life changes and evolves. That balance can be tricky. That's why you have financial advisors, to help ease the pain of planning. We make it feel easier, offer new perspectives and expertise that adds depth and confidence. And too, we provide accountability, acknowledgement and reassurance, which is often the hardest part. Wherever you find yourself a long the spectrum of planning, we are here with you. Our goal is always to have your overall financial portfolio reflect your best plans and your dreams. And that ongoing conversation and relationship is the gem of our work. Sincerely, Kelley & Ric PS. How we travel is a good example of our planning approaches. Some of us go on tours, others of us create a frame of a plan. Some of us mix both. This photo is a small village on the west of Portugal called Odeceixe by the Sea. It has been named one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. And it was truly magnificent. |
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Financial Planning Helps Us Be Spontaneous
