Diversify globally. Be disciplined. Focus on long term. Have a written plan. Control what you can control. Be positive.Use index-like funds.
Today's @dominoproject related prompt was to write a message to yourself, 10 years from now, in the form of a text or tweet. A tweet is limited to 140 characters, as is the above advice.
This advice is short and concise, but I am very confident that 10 years from now, this will prove to be good advice, which will benefit those that adhere to it.
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Overcoming Uncertainty (Part I)
How do you overcome financial uncertainty? You don't (for most people).
If you want to reap the rewards of the stock market, then you will always have to live with some element of financial uncertainty.
If you invest all your money in bank certificate of deposits or US Government Bonds, you will have minimal risk and be rewarded with minimal returns (and really, a negative real return, after taxes and inflation). Otherwise, you cannot completely overcome financial uncertainty. This is a simple, but true concept.
The role of a good financial advisor is to assist you in dealing with this financial uncertainty, so you can become comfortable with the uncertanties of the world, and financial markets, specifically.
More in part II.
This post is prompted by the the @projectdomino writer's challenge. Today's prompt: Overcoming Uncertainty. "Nothing can bring you peace but yourself. Nothing can bring you peace but the triumph of principles." Ralph Waldo Emerson.
This a part of a challenge for bloggers and writers to post, which began on May 31. I will receive a prompt, or idea, from them each day, which may be the basis for that day's post. For more information on this, see my first post on May 31, 2011.
If you want to reap the rewards of the stock market, then you will always have to live with some element of financial uncertainty.
If you invest all your money in bank certificate of deposits or US Government Bonds, you will have minimal risk and be rewarded with minimal returns (and really, a negative real return, after taxes and inflation). Otherwise, you cannot completely overcome financial uncertainty. This is a simple, but true concept.
The role of a good financial advisor is to assist you in dealing with this financial uncertainty, so you can become comfortable with the uncertanties of the world, and financial markets, specifically.
More in part II.
This post is prompted by the the @projectdomino writer's challenge. Today's prompt: Overcoming Uncertainty. "Nothing can bring you peace but yourself. Nothing can bring you peace but the triumph of principles." Ralph Waldo Emerson.
This a part of a challenge for bloggers and writers to post, which began on May 31. I will receive a prompt, or idea, from them each day, which may be the basis for that day's post. For more information on this, see my first post on May 31, 2011.
Friday, June 24, 2011
Purely Personal: Very Happy after 1,921 Days
Some days you remember for the rest of your life. Yesterday was one of those days.
After 1,921 days, from March 2006 until yesterday, my daughter has worn a back brace for her pediatric scoliosis, nearly 24/7. Starting in 2nd grade. Every day. When it was 95 degrees at summer camp. Every night.
When her wonderful doctor, Dr. Michelle Caird, of the University of Michigan's Children's Hospital told us yesterday afternoon that she no longer had to continue wearing the brace, it was as if my daughter had more than won the lottery. The ear to ear smile never left her face the rest of the day. I think she was smiling while she slept last night.
What was so emotional was how she has handled this for all these years and the things she shared yesterday. These are the life lessons that make us so proud of her, which is why I am writing this.
She realizes that others have had to deal with far worse things. Yes, hers was a daily inconvenience. But she did not have cancer. She was not dying. She just had to wear this brace every day and every night. It was uncomfortable. It meant not being able to wear regular blue jeans or tighter fitting shirts. It meant wearing different clothing than other kids. But she handled this so well, most people never even knew, as she rarely ever complained. She never let it slow her down or contain her enthusiasm for life. Not at all.
She talked of how she could not have done this without so many people's support. Family, friends, other parents, camp counselors and more. Everyone would assist in putting it on for her. Wearing her brace meant that she could not sit on the floor. In grade school, when teachers read during “carpet time,” she would sit on a chair, in the back or side of the room. And quietly, her friends would join her. That is true friendship. That is what supporting someone really means.
So Rachel, we are lucky. You are lucky. The brace worked. You are healthy and have handled this challenge with such maturity, way beyond your age. You did it every day and with a phenomenal attitude. So celebrate! Go buy those jeans you want to!
I am very thankful that your mom was persistent in dealing with your medical issues, and recognized that we needed a new specialist in 2006. I’m thankful that your pediatrician, Dr. Vicky Solway, recommended that we go to UM Children’s Hospital. I’m thankful that Dr. Michelle Caird is so knowledgeable and kind to you. I’m thankful that Ron, of Wright and Fillipis, who made your many braces, treated you so well.
I will miss the closeness of you asking: “Dad, will you put on my brace?” But not too much! And I’ll adjust to this change very well. And I know that you will too.
#trust30 #gratitude
After 1,921 days, from March 2006 until yesterday, my daughter has worn a back brace for her pediatric scoliosis, nearly 24/7. Starting in 2nd grade. Every day. When it was 95 degrees at summer camp. Every night.
When her wonderful doctor, Dr. Michelle Caird, of the University of Michigan's Children's Hospital told us yesterday afternoon that she no longer had to continue wearing the brace, it was as if my daughter had more than won the lottery. The ear to ear smile never left her face the rest of the day. I think she was smiling while she slept last night.
What was so emotional was how she has handled this for all these years and the things she shared yesterday. These are the life lessons that make us so proud of her, which is why I am writing this.
She realizes that others have had to deal with far worse things. Yes, hers was a daily inconvenience. But she did not have cancer. She was not dying. She just had to wear this brace every day and every night. It was uncomfortable. It meant not being able to wear regular blue jeans or tighter fitting shirts. It meant wearing different clothing than other kids. But she handled this so well, most people never even knew, as she rarely ever complained. She never let it slow her down or contain her enthusiasm for life. Not at all.
She talked of how she could not have done this without so many people's support. Family, friends, other parents, camp counselors and more. Everyone would assist in putting it on for her. Wearing her brace meant that she could not sit on the floor. In grade school, when teachers read during “carpet time,” she would sit on a chair, in the back or side of the room. And quietly, her friends would join her. That is true friendship. That is what supporting someone really means.
So Rachel, we are lucky. You are lucky. The brace worked. You are healthy and have handled this challenge with such maturity, way beyond your age. You did it every day and with a phenomenal attitude. So celebrate! Go buy those jeans you want to!
I am very thankful that your mom was persistent in dealing with your medical issues, and recognized that we needed a new specialist in 2006. I’m thankful that your pediatrician, Dr. Vicky Solway, recommended that we go to UM Children’s Hospital. I’m thankful that Dr. Michelle Caird is so knowledgeable and kind to you. I’m thankful that Ron, of Wright and Fillipis, who made your many braces, treated you so well.
I will miss the closeness of you asking: “Dad, will you put on my brace?” But not too much! And I’ll adjust to this change very well. And I know that you will too.
#trust30 #gratitude
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Stock Market Risks: Change Your Thinking
Stock price of ABC Company: today: $ 80
Stock price of ABC Company: 1 month ago $ 100
Is there more risk today, at the lower price, or a month ago, at the higher price?
In today's Sunday New York Times, a commentary began: "While market risk appear to be climbing - stocks have lost ground for six consecutive weeks as the economy seems to have hit another soft patch..."
Most investors get nervous and consider markets to be riskier when prices are falling.
However, from a risk standpoint, investors would be best to consider a reverse in their psychology or how they view stock prices.
When prices decline, there is actually less future risk, as the expected future return is greater.
When prices are rising, people feel more positive about stock prices and seem more willing to invest. This type of thinking leads to the opposite of what is in their best financial interest. It emotionally feels "best," but leads to the opposite of a succinct investment philosophy: buy low and sell high.
Part of the value of working with our firm (or other good financial advisors) is to discuss this type of emotional psychology, as it relates to investing and making financial decisions.
If you take a long-term perspective, and can view stock prices more similar to buying retail goods (want to buy something when it is on sale, not at regular retail prices), you will have a better investment experience.
Like many things in life, this may be easier said than done. It can be hard to buy stocks in a declining or turbulent market, but that decision can be very profitable in the long run.
Cite: The Worry Meter May Overlook Some Warning Signs, New York Times, 6/12/11, Paul J. Lim
Note: This is my 9th post of the @projectdomino writer's challenge.This a challenge for bloggers and writers to post for 30 consecutive days, beginning on May 31. I will receive a prompt, or idea, from them each day, which I may use as the basis for that day's post. The above post is not based on today's Domino prompt. For more information @projectdomino, see my post on May 31, 2011.
Stock price of ABC Company: 1 month ago $ 100
Is there more risk today, at the lower price, or a month ago, at the higher price?
In today's Sunday New York Times, a commentary began: "While market risk appear to be climbing - stocks have lost ground for six consecutive weeks as the economy seems to have hit another soft patch..."
Most investors get nervous and consider markets to be riskier when prices are falling.
However, from a risk standpoint, investors would be best to consider a reverse in their psychology or how they view stock prices.
When prices decline, there is actually less future risk, as the expected future return is greater.
When prices are rising, people feel more positive about stock prices and seem more willing to invest. This type of thinking leads to the opposite of what is in their best financial interest. It emotionally feels "best," but leads to the opposite of a succinct investment philosophy: buy low and sell high.
Part of the value of working with our firm (or other good financial advisors) is to discuss this type of emotional psychology, as it relates to investing and making financial decisions.
If you take a long-term perspective, and can view stock prices more similar to buying retail goods (want to buy something when it is on sale, not at regular retail prices), you will have a better investment experience.
Like many things in life, this may be easier said than done. It can be hard to buy stocks in a declining or turbulent market, but that decision can be very profitable in the long run.
Cite: The Worry Meter May Overlook Some Warning Signs, New York Times, 6/12/11, Paul J. Lim
Note: This is my 9th post of the @projectdomino writer's challenge.This a challenge for bloggers and writers to post for 30 consecutive days, beginning on May 31. I will receive a prompt, or idea, from them each day, which I may use as the basis for that day's post. The above post is not based on today's Domino prompt. For more information @projectdomino, see my post on May 31, 2011.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Five Years: Financial Thoughts
Note: This is my 8th post of the @projectdomino writer's challenge.This a challenge for bloggers and writers to post for 30 consecutive days, beginning on May 31. I will receive a prompt, or idea, from them each day, which I may use as the basis for that day's post. For more information on this, see my post on May 31, 2011.
Many of these suggested prompts could be personal, but I'm going to write this one based on being a financial advisor.
Prompt: What would you say to the person you were 5 years ago? What will you say to the person you'll be in five years?
Do you see the pattern that follows?
5 years ago, June 2006: What advice would I give now, to myself, for 2006?
Provide financial advice to your clients that is always in their best interest.
Be sure that your clients have well diversified portfolios, based on their personal need, ability and willingness to take risk.
A portfolio of stocks should be globally diversified, which means that there should be a significant allocation to international stocks, emerging markets, small company stocks, as well as real estate. A diversified portfolio is not just the S&P 500 index fund.
Remember that over time, the vast majority of mutual funds and money managers do not beat their benchmarks.
Do not take risk with bonds. Only buy very high quality. Reaching for higher yielding, but less quality bonds, is not a good practice. Fixed income is the place to be very safe.
Expect the unexpected, and plan for it. Talk to your clients about bad markets as well as good markets.
Assist your clients in remaining disciplined, especially during down markets. If they do this, they will be well rewarded, after a market downturn, when the market rebounds.
It is impossible to accurately time the market. It is almost impossible to be right twice, as to when to sell (get out of the market) and then again (when to buy back into the market).
Rebalancing is crucial to long term success. When an asset class does well, sell some of it. Use the money to buy an asset class that has not done as well. This leads to buying low and selling high.
Plan with your clients (and have a simple written document), so your clients can achieve a sense of financial comfort and security.
Buy individual bonds or CDs of very high quality, only, which will work well if interest rates rise or fall. Bond mutual funds will not do well if interest rates rise.
5 years in the future, June 2016: What advice would I give now, to myself, for 2016?
Provide financial advice to your clients that is always in their best interest.
Be sure that your clients have well diversified portfolios, based on their personal need, ability and willingness to take risk.
A portfolio of stocks should be globally diversified, which means that there should be a significant allocation to international stocks, emerging markets, small company stocks, as well as real estate. A diversified portfolio is not just the S&P 500 index fund.
Remember that over time, the vast majority of mutual funds and money managers do not beat their benchmarks.
Do not take risk with bonds. Only buy very high quality. Reaching for higher yielding, but less quality bonds, is not a good practice. Fixed income is the place to be very safe.
Expect the unexpected, and plan for it. Talk to your clients about bad markets as well as good markets.
Assist your clients in remaining disciplined, especially during down markets. If they do this, they will be well rewarded, after a market downturn, when the market rebounds.
It is impossible to accurately time the market. It is almost impossible to be right twice, as to when to sell (get out of the market) and then again (when to buy back into the market).
Rebalancing is crucial to long term success. When an asset class does well, sell some of it. Use the money to buy an asset class that has not done as well. This leads to buying low and selling high.
Plan with your clients (and have a simple written document), so your clients can achieve a sense of financial comfort and security.
Buy individual bonds or CDs of very high quality, only, which will work well if interest rates rise or fall. Bond mutual funds will not do well if interest rates rise.
Conclusion: Do you see the pattern?
Many of these suggested prompts could be personal, but I'm going to write this one based on being a financial advisor.
Prompt: What would you say to the person you were 5 years ago? What will you say to the person you'll be in five years?
Do you see the pattern that follows?
5 years ago, June 2006: What advice would I give now, to myself, for 2006?
Provide financial advice to your clients that is always in their best interest.
Be sure that your clients have well diversified portfolios, based on their personal need, ability and willingness to take risk.
A portfolio of stocks should be globally diversified, which means that there should be a significant allocation to international stocks, emerging markets, small company stocks, as well as real estate. A diversified portfolio is not just the S&P 500 index fund.
Remember that over time, the vast majority of mutual funds and money managers do not beat their benchmarks.
Do not take risk with bonds. Only buy very high quality. Reaching for higher yielding, but less quality bonds, is not a good practice. Fixed income is the place to be very safe.
Expect the unexpected, and plan for it. Talk to your clients about bad markets as well as good markets.
Assist your clients in remaining disciplined, especially during down markets. If they do this, they will be well rewarded, after a market downturn, when the market rebounds.
It is impossible to accurately time the market. It is almost impossible to be right twice, as to when to sell (get out of the market) and then again (when to buy back into the market).
Rebalancing is crucial to long term success. When an asset class does well, sell some of it. Use the money to buy an asset class that has not done as well. This leads to buying low and selling high.
Plan with your clients (and have a simple written document), so your clients can achieve a sense of financial comfort and security.
Buy individual bonds or CDs of very high quality, only, which will work well if interest rates rise or fall. Bond mutual funds will not do well if interest rates rise.
5 years in the future, June 2016: What advice would I give now, to myself, for 2016?
Provide financial advice to your clients that is always in their best interest.
Be sure that your clients have well diversified portfolios, based on their personal need, ability and willingness to take risk.
A portfolio of stocks should be globally diversified, which means that there should be a significant allocation to international stocks, emerging markets, small company stocks, as well as real estate. A diversified portfolio is not just the S&P 500 index fund.
Remember that over time, the vast majority of mutual funds and money managers do not beat their benchmarks.
Do not take risk with bonds. Only buy very high quality. Reaching for higher yielding, but less quality bonds, is not a good practice. Fixed income is the place to be very safe.
Expect the unexpected, and plan for it. Talk to your clients about bad markets as well as good markets.
Assist your clients in remaining disciplined, especially during down markets. If they do this, they will be well rewarded, after a market downturn, when the market rebounds.
It is impossible to accurately time the market. It is almost impossible to be right twice, as to when to sell (get out of the market) and then again (when to buy back into the market).
Rebalancing is crucial to long term success. When an asset class does well, sell some of it. Use the money to buy an asset class that has not done as well. This leads to buying low and selling high.
Plan with your clients (and have a simple written document), so your clients can achieve a sense of financial comfort and security.
Buy individual bonds or CDs of very high quality, only, which will work well if interest rates rise or fall. Bond mutual funds will not do well if interest rates rise.
Conclusion: Do you see the pattern?
Monday, June 6, 2011
A Diamond Lost Hurts All of Us
This post is my 7th entry since I started the Blogger Challenge on May 31. I was planning to write on a @projectdomino prompt tonight, but I read something more important in the New York Times online.
Unfortunately, due to poor decisions by a number of Republican Senators, a Nobel Prize winning economist is withdrawing his nomination to the Federal Reserve. Peter Diamond, nominated by President Obama, wrote an OpEd piece in the New York Times, announcing these intentions ("When a Nobel Prize Isn't Enough" http://www.nytimes.com/2011/06/06/opinion/06diamond.html?_r=1&src=ISMR_HP_LO_MST_FB .
This is a huge loss for our country. It represents politics over skill and experience, which is very sad, given the urgent issues which face our country. Mr. Diamond is an expert on structural unemployment and the Social Security system. Those are two of the most important issues that need to be addressed by the Federal Reserve, and our country in general. Having an expert on these issues on the Fed would provide Diamond with a voice to be heard, to set the national agenda in working on these matters.
Yet this highly esteemed MIT professor has been deemed "unqualified" by a number of Senators, particularly Senator Shelby of Alabama. Shelby cites his lack of experience in developing monetary policy. The Federal Reserve should be the "best and brightest" of our nation's economists, working together to address critical economic issues. His areas of expertise are vitally important to developing the foundations of monetary policy.
The Federal Reserve is missing a number of members. This is unfortunate and hopefully the vacant positions will be filled with other, very well qualified people.
Unfortunately, due to poor decisions by a number of Republican Senators, a Nobel Prize winning economist is withdrawing his nomination to the Federal Reserve. Peter Diamond, nominated by President Obama, wrote an OpEd piece in the New York Times, announcing these intentions ("When a Nobel Prize Isn't Enough" http://www.nytimes.com/2011/06/06/opinion/06diamond.html?_r=1&src=ISMR_HP_LO_MST_FB .
This is a huge loss for our country. It represents politics over skill and experience, which is very sad, given the urgent issues which face our country. Mr. Diamond is an expert on structural unemployment and the Social Security system. Those are two of the most important issues that need to be addressed by the Federal Reserve, and our country in general. Having an expert on these issues on the Fed would provide Diamond with a voice to be heard, to set the national agenda in working on these matters.
Yet this highly esteemed MIT professor has been deemed "unqualified" by a number of Senators, particularly Senator Shelby of Alabama. Shelby cites his lack of experience in developing monetary policy. The Federal Reserve should be the "best and brightest" of our nation's economists, working together to address critical economic issues. His areas of expertise are vitally important to developing the foundations of monetary policy.
The Federal Reserve is missing a number of members. This is unfortunate and hopefully the vacant positions will be filled with other, very well qualified people.
Can You Predict the Future? Blogger Challenge #6
Today's post is short, yet powerful.
Prediction is very difficult, especially about the future.
Niels Bohr, Nobel Prize winner, Physics
If you cannot predict the future, then how can you accurately select which stocks or mutual funds or money managers will be the most successful, consistently, for the long term?
You can't....or you have been very lucky. Even Warren Buffett would agree with this.
If this makes sense to you, then we predict that our wealth management strategy for investing will make sense to you.
Give this some thought. Then act.
Prediction is very difficult, especially about the future.
Niels Bohr, Nobel Prize winner, Physics
If you cannot predict the future, then how can you accurately select which stocks or mutual funds or money managers will be the most successful, consistently, for the long term?
You can't....or you have been very lucky. Even Warren Buffett would agree with this.
If this makes sense to you, then we predict that our wealth management strategy for investing will make sense to you.
Give this some thought. Then act.
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Financial Perspective Today: Blogger Challenge Day 5
Today, I've decided not to use the @projectdomino suggested prompt topic and to write about something I feel more passionate about.
To be successful in investing and build long-term wealth, one must have the proper perspective and frame of mind.
The financial markets have been choppy recently, particularly since the beginning of May. As we discuss financial matters with clients and prospects, many raise similar concerns.
People are concerned about many things: the economy in general, the price of oil, the US budget deficit and the national debt, overseas debt levels, unemployment levels, inflation, interest rates, etc. We share these concerns.
Some people look at all these problems and "decide" not to invest or make financial decisions now. This is not in their long-term best interest. As advisors, we recognize and try to emphasize the following perspectives:
We are realists, meaning that we understand these concerns, but are also long-term optimists. We realize that we cannot control these issues. We focus on the things we can control for our clients. However, we know that the US economy and the world in general can be very resilient, in the long run. Things tend to work out, over time. Consider the days and months after 9/11. We all shared huge concerns. Over the years, those fears lessened and travel and the economy rebounded. Resiliency.
We cannot predict the future. Thus, we cannot accurately predict the price of oil 3 months, 6 months, or 2 years from now. Thus, we cannot and do not make investment recommendations based on things that we cannot forecast.
We talk with our clients extensively, about any financial concerns they may have, both personal to them and/or these other outside factors. We then develop a financial plan and asset allocation policy that is appropriate for their personal circumstances. This helps them to move from "inaction" due to external factors to having a plan that they are comfortable with. This provides them with the ability to move forward, so they can be financially secure, and sleep well at night.
The facts prove that this is a good strategy, if you have the proper perspective and discipline. Staying on the stock market sidelines has not been a good strategy, if compared to a properly globally diversified portfolio.
The following figures may provide helpful perspective. These are for the S & P 500, which is an index of 500 large US companies. This is not a globally diversified portfolio, but useful to review.
2 years ago, June 2009 925
1 year ago, June, 2010 1,040
6 months ago 1,220
June, 2011 1,300
(Note: The above information for the S&P 500 is for illustrative purposes only and does not represent the financial performance of our firm or our clients.)
To be successful in investing and build long-term wealth, one must have the proper perspective and frame of mind.
The financial markets have been choppy recently, particularly since the beginning of May. As we discuss financial matters with clients and prospects, many raise similar concerns.
People are concerned about many things: the economy in general, the price of oil, the US budget deficit and the national debt, overseas debt levels, unemployment levels, inflation, interest rates, etc. We share these concerns.
Some people look at all these problems and "decide" not to invest or make financial decisions now. This is not in their long-term best interest. As advisors, we recognize and try to emphasize the following perspectives:
We are realists, meaning that we understand these concerns, but are also long-term optimists. We realize that we cannot control these issues. We focus on the things we can control for our clients. However, we know that the US economy and the world in general can be very resilient, in the long run. Things tend to work out, over time. Consider the days and months after 9/11. We all shared huge concerns. Over the years, those fears lessened and travel and the economy rebounded. Resiliency.
We cannot predict the future. Thus, we cannot accurately predict the price of oil 3 months, 6 months, or 2 years from now. Thus, we cannot and do not make investment recommendations based on things that we cannot forecast.
We talk with our clients extensively, about any financial concerns they may have, both personal to them and/or these other outside factors. We then develop a financial plan and asset allocation policy that is appropriate for their personal circumstances. This helps them to move from "inaction" due to external factors to having a plan that they are comfortable with. This provides them with the ability to move forward, so they can be financially secure, and sleep well at night.
The facts prove that this is a good strategy, if you have the proper perspective and discipline. Staying on the stock market sidelines has not been a good strategy, if compared to a properly globally diversified portfolio.
The following figures may provide helpful perspective. These are for the S & P 500, which is an index of 500 large US companies. This is not a globally diversified portfolio, but useful to review.
2 years ago, June 2009 925
1 year ago, June, 2010 1,040
6 months ago 1,220
June, 2011 1,300
(Note: The above information for the S&P 500 is for illustrative purposes only and does not represent the financial performance of our firm or our clients.)
Friday, June 3, 2011
Biggest Challenge: Day 4 of Blogger Challenge
Note: This is my 4th post of the @projectdomino writer's challenge.This a challenge for bloggers and writers to post for 30 consecutive days, beginning on May 31. I will receive a prompt, or idea, from them each day, which may be the basis for that day's post. For more information on this, see my post on May 31, 2011.
Today's prompt: Identify one of your biggest challenges at the moment and turn it into a question... After 48 hours, journal what answers came up...and evaluate them.
As I want to post each day, I'm going to do an initial post for this question and then review it in 48 hours.
My challenge and question: How can I begin to exercise on a regular basis and stick to it?
This may not be my "biggest" challenge at the moment, but starting and continuing to exercise regularly has been a significant challenge for me for a very long time.
Like many things in life, the answer to this is quite simple: to just do it, and be disciplined about it.
How to stick to it? As people who know me know, I read a lot. Most advice I've read recommends that to get important things done, do them first thing in the morning. So, to be successful with an exercise routine, it would be best for me to exercise first thing in the morning, at least most of the time.
To set and accomplish goals, tracking and recording progress is important, so I should do this. I will use a monthly calendar.
One of my favorite books is The Compound Effect by Darren Hardy, publisher of Success Magazine. He writes about the effects of taking small, incremental steps toward any goal, which, over time, results in larger, long term benefits. This definitely applies to adopting an exercise routine.
Being disciplined applies to success in so many aspects of life, in order to accomplish goals. Being disciplined is also a critical factor in my business, as for our clients to be successful financially, they must be disciplined to stick with the financial plans that we develop for them. If they sell at the market bottom, they will not reap the reward of the inevitable market rebound. If I am not disciplined to make the time to exercise regularly, it won't happen.
I also want to exercise as a regular practice, as part of being a good role model for my children. This would benefit me, as well as them, and nothing could be better than that!
Other ways to accomplish a regular exercise routine:
Tell others about this goal. I've certainly done this with this post. I've shared it with my family members.
In making changes, in many situations, it is recommended to try not to take on too much change at once. I've just started doing this 30 day blogger project, and now I'm challenging myself to exercise more. However, writing these posts has created a sense of discipline and accomplishment, which is actually creating the motivation for me to start this exercise goal. Success in one area is leading to motivation in another area.
Another favorite book, which was part of the influence for participating in this blogger challenge, is Poke the Box, by Seth Godin. The key thesis of the book is "getting started" and taking the initiative to begin things. To challenge yourself and not be satisfied with the status quo. That is what this is all about.
Set goals. Do it. Stay disciplined. Repeat.
Today's prompt: Identify one of your biggest challenges at the moment and turn it into a question... After 48 hours, journal what answers came up...and evaluate them.
As I want to post each day, I'm going to do an initial post for this question and then review it in 48 hours.
My challenge and question: How can I begin to exercise on a regular basis and stick to it?
This may not be my "biggest" challenge at the moment, but starting and continuing to exercise regularly has been a significant challenge for me for a very long time.
Like many things in life, the answer to this is quite simple: to just do it, and be disciplined about it.
How to stick to it? As people who know me know, I read a lot. Most advice I've read recommends that to get important things done, do them first thing in the morning. So, to be successful with an exercise routine, it would be best for me to exercise first thing in the morning, at least most of the time.
To set and accomplish goals, tracking and recording progress is important, so I should do this. I will use a monthly calendar.
One of my favorite books is The Compound Effect by Darren Hardy, publisher of Success Magazine. He writes about the effects of taking small, incremental steps toward any goal, which, over time, results in larger, long term benefits. This definitely applies to adopting an exercise routine.
Being disciplined applies to success in so many aspects of life, in order to accomplish goals. Being disciplined is also a critical factor in my business, as for our clients to be successful financially, they must be disciplined to stick with the financial plans that we develop for them. If they sell at the market bottom, they will not reap the reward of the inevitable market rebound. If I am not disciplined to make the time to exercise regularly, it won't happen.
I also want to exercise as a regular practice, as part of being a good role model for my children. This would benefit me, as well as them, and nothing could be better than that!
Other ways to accomplish a regular exercise routine:
Tell others about this goal. I've certainly done this with this post. I've shared it with my family members.
In making changes, in many situations, it is recommended to try not to take on too much change at once. I've just started doing this 30 day blogger project, and now I'm challenging myself to exercise more. However, writing these posts has created a sense of discipline and accomplishment, which is actually creating the motivation for me to start this exercise goal. Success in one area is leading to motivation in another area.
Another favorite book, which was part of the influence for participating in this blogger challenge, is Poke the Box, by Seth Godin. The key thesis of the book is "getting started" and taking the initiative to begin things. To challenge yourself and not be satisfied with the status quo. That is what this is all about.
Set goals. Do it. Stay disciplined. Repeat.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
One Strong Belief: Day 3 of Blogger Challenge
Note: This is my 3rd post of the @projectdomino writer's challenge.This a challenge for bloggers and writers to post for 30 consecutive days, beginning on May 31. I will receive a prompt, or idea, from them each day, which may be the basis for that day's post. For more information on this, see my post on May 31, 2011.
Today's prompt: the world is powered by passionate people, powerful ideas, and fearless action. What's one strong belief you possess that isn't shared by your closest friends or family? What inspires this belief, and what have you done to actively live it?
On a personal level, I'm not sure what my answer to this question is.
For my firm, this answer is quite clear.
Most people, in terms of their investing and wealth management, select mutual funds, money managers or brokers based on their past performance, or how they think these professionals will perform in the future. Or they pick the stocks they think will be winners. Most people believe that they can identify some firm or stock that has the ability to consistently outperform the stock market, or a specific asset class. This is called active money management.
One of our core beliefs is just the opposite. We are believers in passive investment management. Passive management means that we purchase a mutual fund that owns all the stocks in a given asset class. For example, instead of trying to choose the 30-50 largest US stocks that may do the best, and then sell them and buy others in a short while, we would own the S & P 500 for the US large growth asset class. As most money managers underperform this "index" or benchmark, we are providing better advice for our clients. We believe this will provide the best long-term investment experience for our clients, as well as ourselves, because of the experiences we have witnessed, as well as the extensive academic research which supports this strategy of investing.
Before I started this firm, I spent time with my CPA clients and saw firsthand how they moved from broker to broker, and mutual fund to mutual fund, as they became disappointed again and again with their advisor's "strategy" and would go looking for the next strategy that would work. This cycle repeated itself over and over, with many clients. I became determined to find a better way to assist my clients.
The prompt above asked "what have I done to actively live this?"
I started a wealth management firm based on this core philosophy. I affiliated with a national organization, BAM Advisor Services, based in St. Louis, which now manages $14 billion as a network of firms. We generally utilize Dimensional Fund Advisors (DFA) mutual funds,which strictly adheres to the same philosophy, and because of firms like ours, DFA has grown to become the ninth largest mutual fund company in the United States.
We have our core beliefs. It is not the view of Wall Street or of most of the financial media, but we feel more strongly every day that this is the proper way to invest and manage money for the long-term. This philosophy has been successful in all types of financial markets, both in the US and globally.
So in this regard, we have taken some powerful ideas, we are passionate about this strategy and we have been fearless in building a business based on these concepts.
Today's prompt: the world is powered by passionate people, powerful ideas, and fearless action. What's one strong belief you possess that isn't shared by your closest friends or family? What inspires this belief, and what have you done to actively live it?
On a personal level, I'm not sure what my answer to this question is.
For my firm, this answer is quite clear.
Most people, in terms of their investing and wealth management, select mutual funds, money managers or brokers based on their past performance, or how they think these professionals will perform in the future. Or they pick the stocks they think will be winners. Most people believe that they can identify some firm or stock that has the ability to consistently outperform the stock market, or a specific asset class. This is called active money management.
One of our core beliefs is just the opposite. We are believers in passive investment management. Passive management means that we purchase a mutual fund that owns all the stocks in a given asset class. For example, instead of trying to choose the 30-50 largest US stocks that may do the best, and then sell them and buy others in a short while, we would own the S & P 500 for the US large growth asset class. As most money managers underperform this "index" or benchmark, we are providing better advice for our clients. We believe this will provide the best long-term investment experience for our clients, as well as ourselves, because of the experiences we have witnessed, as well as the extensive academic research which supports this strategy of investing.
Before I started this firm, I spent time with my CPA clients and saw firsthand how they moved from broker to broker, and mutual fund to mutual fund, as they became disappointed again and again with their advisor's "strategy" and would go looking for the next strategy that would work. This cycle repeated itself over and over, with many clients. I became determined to find a better way to assist my clients.
The prompt above asked "what have I done to actively live this?"
I started a wealth management firm based on this core philosophy. I affiliated with a national organization, BAM Advisor Services, based in St. Louis, which now manages $14 billion as a network of firms. We generally utilize Dimensional Fund Advisors (DFA) mutual funds,which strictly adheres to the same philosophy, and because of firms like ours, DFA has grown to become the ninth largest mutual fund company in the United States.
We have our core beliefs. It is not the view of Wall Street or of most of the financial media, but we feel more strongly every day that this is the proper way to invest and manage money for the long-term. This philosophy has been successful in all types of financial markets, both in the US and globally.
So in this regard, we have taken some powerful ideas, we are passionate about this strategy and we have been fearless in building a business based on these concepts.
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Financial Planning in One Sentence (Day 2)
Note: This is my 2nd post of the @projectdomino writer's challenge.This a challenge for bloggers and writers to post for 30 consecutive days, beginning on May 31. I will receive a prompt, or idea, from them each day, which may be the basis for that day's post. For more information on this, see my post on May 31, 2011.
Today's blog post prompt: describe today in only one sentence.
Do the right thing.
This is written on my firm's business card. It represents our values as a firm, our values with our clients and the decisions we make on their behalf. It is part of the professionals we choose to affiliate and collaborate with, and my personal values.
While I try to do the right thing, I also recognize that I have made mistakes, both personally and professionally. We all have. I have apologized when appropriate. I have taken ownership and moved forward, as that is the only way we can all exist and progress.
In term's of my client relationships, "doing the right thing" is a core principle. I was recently given a wonderful book, which I highly recommend, about the life lessons of Nelson Mandela (Mandela's Way, Fifteen Lessons on Life, Love, and Courage by Richard Stengel). One of these lessons is to have one or a few core principles, which should always be adhered to. There may be other strategies or aspects that may be modified, but we must each choose some core beliefs which are unwavering.
For my firm, this concept translates to how we make decisions and provide our advice. The client's interest always comes first. Legally, we have a fiduciary responsibility to our clients. Traditional stock brokers do not adhere to this standard.
We believe (and academic research strongly supports) that active money managers do not add value and they cannot be identified, in advance, consistently, over a long period of time. We believe in global diversification. We believe in diversification for both stocks as well as bonds and CDs. We recognize that we cannot predict the future and we do not have a crystal ball.
I also want to emphasize the word "do." We are doing. We are growing, personally and professionally. We are active in our community. We are learning. We are reading. We are attending seminars and conferences. We are interacting with others through social media. We are planning. We are meeting with current and new client prospects.
And we are thankful that "doing the right thing" results in good things.
#Trust30
Today's blog post prompt: describe today in only one sentence.
Do the right thing.
This is written on my firm's business card. It represents our values as a firm, our values with our clients and the decisions we make on their behalf. It is part of the professionals we choose to affiliate and collaborate with, and my personal values.
While I try to do the right thing, I also recognize that I have made mistakes, both personally and professionally. We all have. I have apologized when appropriate. I have taken ownership and moved forward, as that is the only way we can all exist and progress.
In term's of my client relationships, "doing the right thing" is a core principle. I was recently given a wonderful book, which I highly recommend, about the life lessons of Nelson Mandela (Mandela's Way, Fifteen Lessons on Life, Love, and Courage by Richard Stengel). One of these lessons is to have one or a few core principles, which should always be adhered to. There may be other strategies or aspects that may be modified, but we must each choose some core beliefs which are unwavering.
For my firm, this concept translates to how we make decisions and provide our advice. The client's interest always comes first. Legally, we have a fiduciary responsibility to our clients. Traditional stock brokers do not adhere to this standard.
We believe (and academic research strongly supports) that active money managers do not add value and they cannot be identified, in advance, consistently, over a long period of time. We believe in global diversification. We believe in diversification for both stocks as well as bonds and CDs. We recognize that we cannot predict the future and we do not have a crystal ball.
I also want to emphasize the word "do." We are doing. We are growing, personally and professionally. We are active in our community. We are learning. We are reading. We are attending seminars and conferences. We are interacting with others through social media. We are planning. We are meeting with current and new client prospects.
And we are thankful that "doing the right thing" results in good things.
#Trust30
Financial planning: 15 Minutes to Live (Day 1)
This is my first post of the @projectdomino writer's challenge.This a challenge for bloggers and writers to post for 30 consecutive days, beginning on May 31. I will receive a prompt, or idea, from them each day, which may be the basis for that day's post. For more information on this, see my first post on May 31, 2011.
The prompt: I just discovered I have 15 minutes to live. (and 15 minutes to write)
Fortunately, this is purely hypothetical.
Obviously, my first thought is of my family, relatives and friends. I am secure knowing that my children will be well taken care of. I am comforted that I have planned properly, I have adequate life insurance and estate planning documents which are in place, so they will be OK financially. I'm glad that I have practiced what I have preached to my clients.
I have left my children with a legacy of good values and have been privileged to have shared with them many wonderful life experiences. I have been very actively involved in many charitable organizations, and those institutions will benefit in the future from both the time that I have spent being a leader, as well as the legacy gifts that are part of my estate plan.
In terms of my business, I am again comforted to know that my clients will be well taken care of by my wonderful partner, Keith Rybak, as well as our collaborative partners, BAM Advisor Services and DFA mutual funds. As Keith and I meet with clients together, he knows them well. My clients will benefit from that consistent practice that we have adhered to.
As importantly, all of our clients have written Investment Policy Statements, so their goals and investment allocations are clearly documented, and not just in my head. There should be no need for any sudden changes due to this hypothetical event.
I am further comforted by knowing that I have provided good, long term investment planning for my clients, and they will be financially secure if they continue to adhere to the philosophies we have in place.
If this was real, and fortunately it is not, I would feel that I have been very fortunate to have had a wonderful family, I have left my children with a better life than I started with, that I was able to travel and grow a business. I have regrets. We all would at a time like this. I have made mistakes. I am very human. And I didn't get to see Michigan in the Rose Bowl. I will now get to discuss with Bo the concept of "Those Who Stay Will Be Champions."
As this is not real, I will continue to pursue my goals, and continue to champion my values and pursuits.
#trust30
The prompt: I just discovered I have 15 minutes to live. (and 15 minutes to write)
Fortunately, this is purely hypothetical.
Obviously, my first thought is of my family, relatives and friends. I am secure knowing that my children will be well taken care of. I am comforted that I have planned properly, I have adequate life insurance and estate planning documents which are in place, so they will be OK financially. I'm glad that I have practiced what I have preached to my clients.
I have left my children with a legacy of good values and have been privileged to have shared with them many wonderful life experiences. I have been very actively involved in many charitable organizations, and those institutions will benefit in the future from both the time that I have spent being a leader, as well as the legacy gifts that are part of my estate plan.
In terms of my business, I am again comforted to know that my clients will be well taken care of by my wonderful partner, Keith Rybak, as well as our collaborative partners, BAM Advisor Services and DFA mutual funds. As Keith and I meet with clients together, he knows them well. My clients will benefit from that consistent practice that we have adhered to.
As importantly, all of our clients have written Investment Policy Statements, so their goals and investment allocations are clearly documented, and not just in my head. There should be no need for any sudden changes due to this hypothetical event.
I am further comforted by knowing that I have provided good, long term investment planning for my clients, and they will be financially secure if they continue to adhere to the philosophies we have in place.
If this was real, and fortunately it is not, I would feel that I have been very fortunate to have had a wonderful family, I have left my children with a better life than I started with, that I was able to travel and grow a business. I have regrets. We all would at a time like this. I have made mistakes. I am very human. And I didn't get to see Michigan in the Rose Bowl. I will now get to discuss with Bo the concept of "Those Who Stay Will Be Champions."
As this is not real, I will continue to pursue my goals, and continue to champion my values and pursuits.
#trust30
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