Money Can’t Buy Happiness, or Can It
Category: Financial Planning » Behavioral Finance
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!
Perhaps It’s Not About What You Want From Life, But What Life Wants From You
Category: Foster Group
I just finished reading Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl. Among the many meaningful things he wrote, here is one that stood out.
The Future is Uncertain. Better to Prepare than Predict.
Because I work for Foster Group, a firm dedicated to truly caring for the financial lives of those we serve, a lot of the conversations we have with regard to this uncertainty relate to money
Thoughts on Life and Leadership from Nine of Des Moines’ Best
Category: Foster Group
I went to the Business Record’s 90 Ideas in 90 Minutes Event. Nine people were given the opportunity to speak. They shared up to ten of their best ideas for life and leadership. I’ve compiled my Top Nine list in alphabetical order.
Listen to Learn with These 5 Podcasts
Category: Foster Group
Like most of you, I enjoy learning. And one of the ways I learn is by listening to podcasts. Here are five podcasts I recommend.
What Makes You Cry?
Category: Foster Group
As someone who works at a financial planning and investment management firm, I think itÆs a question we should probably be asking our clients more often.
Who Really Needs a Financial Advisor?
Category: Foster Group
The truth is, I donÆt think everyone needs a financial advisor. In my limited time in the industry, here are some of the reasons I think working with a financial advisor might be a good idea.
What Have We Learned in the Last 4 Months?
Category: Foster Group
How have things changed at Foster Group in the past four months? Below are a few thoughts on what has changed… and a brief comment on what hasn’t.
Starting Off on the Right Foot
Category: Financial Planning » Cashflow
Starting off life after school on the right foot financially is important. A good financial advisor can make all the difference.
No Better Time to Deploy Your Donor Advised Fund
Category: Financial Planning » Charitable Giving
One of the best vehicles to help our clients meet their charitable giving goals is a Donor Advised Fund (DAF). Having a DAF in place for times like these is important to help meet the needs of your community.
Teaching Your Kids to be Grateful and Giving
Category: Financial Planning » Charitable Giving
Most of the time, it is not so much how we directly “teach” our kids about the value of money but rather how we model and speak about money around them.
Who Is Your Team’s Financial General Manager
No matter what the circumstances, during the good and the difficult times, it is in our best interest to seek guidance on the most important aspects of our lives. Consider hiring a "General Manager" to help you with your finances.
Focus on What You Can Control
At Foster Group, we focus on what we can control and embrace uncertainty. So, when it comes to your financial plan, what are the areas we can help you control?
Set It and Don’t Forget It
Working with a financial advisor is a great start to having someone inventory and help you keep track of the beneficiaries, or lack of, on your accounts.
Minor Decisions, Major Effect
Category: Investing
When It’s Time to Call in a Pro
Category: Foster Group
Hiring a pro is never a cut and dried decision but when it’s necessary, I’ve found that I gain time, peace of mind, and often better results than what I could have achieved on my own. While I’m still a DYI’er at heart, I have learned to recognize when it’s time to call in a pro!