Objective Advice For Your Life

Bucket List
   

One of the core values of our company is to make sure we have the best skills and knowledge about personal finance and investments. We are constantly learning about new techniques and researching issues that could impact our clients. We do this because we like it and to make sure our clients receive the best advice possible. 

Many of you know that I have been taking classes at Iowa State University over the last few years. I am happy to announce that this month I just finished up my master’s degree in Family Financial Planning. The Family Financial Planning program is different than typical finance programs that focus only on the numbers and formulas. This program centers around the human element and how we manage our family finances in the context of our various life stages, personal events, and behaviors.

Completing the program is great news for our family because I will have more of my personal time to share with them and time for other things I have been putting off. About six months ago, I started a “bucket list” in anticipation of being done with the program. A bucket list is a list of aspiring things to do or experience before you die. If you read my list you would probably think it was more like a grocery list, nothing too wild and crazy like skydiving on it. Hmm...maybe I missed the point? 

One professional goal on my bucket list is to keep learning and growing in my knowledge about personal finance so that I can continue to serve clients. I am evaluating specialized certification programs around topics of emerging importance for our clients, such as philanthropy planning, company succession preparation, and employee benefits. 

These areas are of importance because many of our clients have their own bucket lists. I hear clients tell me about how they want to make a difference by helping others, but are not sure how to navigate the complex and technical landscape of charitable giving. Another common item on bucket lists I hear about is how people want to transition their business, but need help integrating it with other life goals. And, many of you are looking for ways to help your own employees improve their well-being through company provided benefits.