Stuff I’ve Learned
Category: Financial Planning
Random, interesting stuff (at least to me!) I’ve learned since joining Foster Group.
Stop Doing That!
Category: Financial Planning » Behavioral Finance
We all need people in our lives who have the courage to let us know when we've done something we shouldn't. It's equally wise to have an Advisor who can speak truth to you when it comes to your finances.
What to Do with Your College Expenses Refund Check
Category: Financial Planning
If you are receiving a refund of money already spent from a 529 plan, here are some important considerations.
Opportunity Valley
Category: Financial Planning
Money Can’t Buy Happiness, or Can It
Category: Financial Planning
The book Happy Money: The Science of Happier Spending by Elizabeth Dunn & Michael Norton has changed the way I think and feel about spending. It’s based on academic research that identifies ways that spending can increase our joy, something I didn’t think possible before reading this book!
Why I Try Not to Pay Attention to the News
Category: Financial Planning » Behavioral Finance
While I don’t think this approach is for everyone, I do think many of us would benefit from making some of these decisions.
Planning for Future Healthcare Expenses
Category: Financial Planning
"What is worth insuring?" The answer almost always boils down to how much you'll have to pay to insure the thing you don't want to lose -- whether it's your mustache, your fantasy football player, your home or your health.
Do Headlines Cause You to Take Action?
Category: Financial Planning
Takeaways from a smattering of the headlines across a wide range of news sources in 2022 and early 2023.
Positive Planning Opportunities in a Negative Market
Category: Financial Planning
Strangely, a down market and the response of the government to it has created potential planning opportunities that wouldn’t have otherwise been there.
Accountability: The Key to Unlocking Financial Independence
Category: Financial Planning
For more than 20 years, I ran competitively. Last year, I spent three to four months training consistently and failed to reach one of my goals.
Saving More Is Easy If You Eliminate Obstacles
Category: Financial Planning
I listened to a great show on the Hidden Brain podcast a couple months ago: Work 2.0 – The Obstacles You Don’t See. The big takeaway was that often the path to success is not about more motivation but removing obstacles. I think the podcast has had a big impact on my life already. Let me explain.
Retirement: Living Well and Fully Living
Category: Financial Planning
Essential do’s and don’ts that could help you enjoy your retirement life to the fullest.
Have You Come to Terms with the Reality of Your Retirement?
Category: Financial Planning » Behavioral Finance
People come to terms with the fact they will one day retire. Maybe not in the next year or two but sometime in the next five. Often, it’s a reality they’ve been denying.
Passing on the Spirit of Generosity in a Tax Smart Manner
Category: Financial Planning
If you are giving to charities now or plan to in the future, you may possess the “Spirit of Generosity.” How do you pass that “Spirit of Generosity” on to your children and/or grandchildren?
Protect Your Taxes: What You Need to Know About IRS IP PINs
Category: Financial Planning
Tax season is already complicated enough, but identity theft can make it significantly worse. To help safeguard taxpayers, the IRS offers the Identity Protection Personal Identification Number (IP PIN). Here’s a breakdown of what an IP PIN is, how to get one, and insights on who should consider using it.
The Once a Year Approach to Looking at Investments
Last year was a very up and down year in the market. That’s not abnormal. In fact, it’s what happens most years. December 12 was the only time last year that I looked at the numbers. In not looking at the numbers throughout the year, I not only minimized worry, but also created the opportunity for a happy surprise.
A Farming Deduction from an Unexpected Location: The Beach
Category: Financial Planning
With farm ground prices near all-time highs, higher borrowing costs, and tight margins, this tax deduction should be considered when purchasing a farm property or inheriting one.
Balance Sheet Liquidity: What Is It? How Do I Approach It?
Category: Financial Planning
I am extremely fortunate to work with many different types of clients. Some of my favorite clients are the owners of privately owned businesses. There are always opportunities to have conversations that go well beyond managing investments.