"What is your money for?" It's a question I often ask, and it gets right to the heart of what I help people do: use their money to design the ideal life. Financial security and comfortable living are incredibly important, but if you're not intentionally investing in the things that truly matter, you might find yourself surrounded by "stuff" that brings no real joy, and money that just... makes more money.
My approach, which is rooted in the principles of my Balanced Wealth Blueprint, is about boosting more than just your bottom line. It's about purposeful investments in yourself, your family, and your community.
Investing in Yourself
Think of yourself as one of your most valuable assets—perhaps even the most valuable. Your well-being, your drive to learn, your professional abilities, your willingness to try new things, your wisdom, and your compassion for others are what allow you to move forward in life and make a positive impact. Investing in yourself amplifies that impact and deepens the sense of purpose you derive from your wealth.
One simple way to start is by fine-tuning your daily routine. Carve out time each day for exercise, self-reflection, and learning. Some of these investments might be literal, like taking classes for degrees or certifications to advance your career or working with a personal trainer. Others might be more about intention, like time-blocking for reading and meditation. And some can be simple substitutions, like packing a healthy lunch instead of grabbing fast food during the workweek.
Investing in Your Family
Beyond the many literal financial investments that come with raising a family—from diapers and groceries to extra cars and college tuition—investing in your family should also strengthen your relationship with your spouse and prepare your children to be conscientious stewards of your legacy.
A powerful tool for aligning your family around core goals and values is creating a family mission statement. This process shifts your collective focus from acquiring things to investing in experiences that bring you closer and put your family's values into action. As part of this conversation, you can teach your children about responsible money management. For example, show them how you and your spouse are saving and budgeting for that big family vacation.
And it’s not just about money; invest time in your family too. Leaving work at work and being fully present at soccer games and date nights encourages everyone to make the same investments in each other.
Investing in Your Community
Expanding the impact of your investments often begins with philanthropic goals. You could weave these goals into your family mission statement by asking your family about the causes and organizations that resonate most with them. Develop a plan for consistent giving and include that gift in budgeting discussions with your children. If your family has long-term giving goals, you might even consider establishing a trust or a family foundation.
Your personal and professional skills are also incredibly valuable to organizations working for the greater good and your community. Volunteer, tutor, or mentor. As you approach retirement, consider how you can repurpose your professional skills to give back and add structure to your days.
Exploring the true purpose and value of money is an essential part of the Balanced Wealth Blueprint process. Wherever you are on your financial journey, I can help you to identify and plan for the investments that will make your life more fulfilling. Schedule an appointment and let's discuss what "wealth" truly means to you.