For those of you who read last week’s newsletter, we talked about all of our future plans that have been cancelled. This week, I wanted to focus on some of the things we can look forward to as we wait for life to resume some semblance of normalcy. Now, I’m not talking about going to a restaurant, or to see your favorite sports team play, or hopping on a plane to somewhere that isn’t having monsoons! I’m talking about life events that will, one way or another, happen.
When it comes to financial planning and investing, it’s easy to put money into your work 401(k) or investment account, and buy the indices. When the economy is roaring and the markets are up, they typically follow. On the financial planning side of the equation, when we’re seeing markets that seem to only go up, it’s simple. It just comes down to you saving money, and that pot increasing until you’ve reached the amount you need to retire. And honestly, I’m all for that type of market! I mean, who wouldn’t be?
In recent weeks, we’ve been talking about some of the things you, our friends and clients, have been doing to keep connected during quarantine. We also shared Senior Partner David Smyth’s ideas for dating in captivity, and of course he’s also enjoying lots of projects with his three boys. Today, we wanted to check in on some of our other team members and how they’ve been spending their time at home.
If you’re a W2 employee working from home for the last month-plus, you might be worrying more and more about unemployment as time goes on. Uncertainty can drive just about anyone crazy.
This month, we’re talking about saving. And washing your hands. But mostly saving! Yes, it’s still important to stay on track with your savings goals when the markets are wacky. More so, actually.
This month, our plan was to discuss the importance of, and encourage all of you to focus on saving, and how to best work toward your unique goals. But at the moment I think it’s more important to talk about washing your hands! (And yes, there is a right way to do it.)
Last week, we talked about the importance of taking care of yourself when it comes to looking after your loved ones. One thing I didn’t touch on last week that I want to explore today is the importance of prioritizing not only your physical health, but your mental health as well. Thankfully we live in a time where talking about mental health no longer conjures up images of straightjackets and stark hospitals. These days, it’s more about finding some zen. At least, that’s what I tell myself!
When you think of Valentine’s Day, what comes to your mind? Hearts? Flowers? Candy? Fancy dinners? Romance? Personally I think that version of Valentine’s Day only belongs to a small part of the population, and even then, it only lasts for a few years.
Have you been procrastinating on any of your checklist items that need to be completed this year? (Remember that list we give you after your quarterly meetings..?) Do you have questions for us about checking any of these items off for 2019? Well, I’m lovingly reminding you that you have until about December 18 to bring them to our attention to ensure those things are taken care of by the end of the year.
When was the last time you reviewed your mortgage? If it’s been a couple of years, it may be worth pulling out those documents and taking a look at your rate, terms and payment. A few things have happened recently that might make this a good time to look into a refinance, especially if you have a strong credit score.
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