By Anthony Hernandez, CFP®
As a financial planner, I often meet with people who are uncertain about their financial future. Many come to us with a desire for guidance but lack clarity on their goals and priorities. At Worthen, we understand that true financial planning goes beyond mere number-crunching; it’s about aligning your finances with your values and aspirations. Since no two plans are the same, we’ve developed a comprehensive process that starts with understanding what truly matters to you.
Discovering Your Values: The Foundation of Our Approach
Our journey with clients begins with a values exercise. This exercise isn’t about dollars and cents; it’s about delving into what brings meaning and fulfillment to your life. We first do a quick 5 – 10 minute exercise to dial down your top 10 values. Then, we ask thought-provoking questions to uncover your core values, beliefs, and aspirations. We gain valuable insights that shape your financial plan by exploring these fundamental aspects of your identity.
Crafting Your Statement of Financial Purpose
From the insights gained in the values exercise, we work together to craft a Statement of Financial Purpose. This statement serves as a guiding beacon, summarizing your values and providing a lens through which we set goals and evaluate financial decisions. It’s more than just a document; it’s a declaration of your financial intentions and priorities.
Establishing Long-Term Goals: Painting the Big Picture
With your Statement of Financial Purpose as our North Star, we establish long-term goals. These goals encapsulate your aspirations for the future, whether it’s retiring comfortably, funding your children’s education, or traveling the world. By painting the big picture, we create a roadmap that guides our financial planning journey.
Dialing In on Short-Term Goals: Turning Dreams into Reality
While long-term goals provide direction, we understand the importance of breaking them down into manageable steps. That’s why we focus on the next 6 months to a year, identifying short-term goals that align with your values and long-term vision. Whether it’s saving for a down payment, paying off debt, or investing in your personal growth, these short-term goals bridge the gap between dreams and reality.
Taking the Pressure Off: Finding Clarity and Confidence
At Worthen Financial Advisors, we don’t just ask clients what their goals are; we help you identify and articulate them. Our process takes the pressure off you alone trying to figure out what to do next by providing clarity and direction. By aligning your short-term goals with your Statement of Financial Purpose, we help empower you to confidently make informed decisions.
Conclusion: Empowering Your Financial Journey
In a world filled with financial uncertainty, having a roadmap tailored to your values and aspirations is valuable. At Worthen Financial Advisors, our unique approach to financial planning goes beyond numbers; it’s about empowering you to live a life aligned with your deepest values. Let us help guide you on your financial journey, helping you turn your dreams into reality…one goal at a time.