We Won’t Tell You No

I’ve noticed over the years, prospective clients often schedule meetings with us right after they have made a significant financial decision.

They bought a new house or car, went on that dream vacation, refinanced the home to consolidate debt, etc. They bought something they wanted, did something fun or something that eased financial stress, and then scheduled a consultation. Unfortunately, the timing couldn’t be any worse, and we see it all the time. Sometimes the decision is small and won’t have a significant impact; most of the time, it’s substantial, and overcoming that decision will have its challenges. I’ve always wondered why? Why are folks waiting until after a major financial decision to seek advice?

They thought we would tell them no.

We won’t tell you “no”! That’s not in our job description, and it’s not at all how our client/advisor partnerships work.

Our job is to advise - to share the pros, the cons, and potential outcomes different decisions will have on your long-term financial goals.

Our job is to give recommendations that we believe will put you on the best path and give you the greatest chance of achieving your version of financial freedom.

Our job is to understand the ins and outs of financial matters and craft the most efficient plan for each situation you come across.

Our job is to be your guide in an ever changing landscape of financial do and don’ts, can’s and cannot’s.

If we went day to day saying, “don’t buy that house,” “don’t get that car,” or “do you really need that trip?” our job wouldn’t be fun or rewarding at all. And while we love our work, it’s infinitely more fun and rewarding when we’re helping our clients pursue their most enjoyable life!

Don’t get me wrong; if a recommendation is needed, we will make it.

If we need to say, “we wouldn’t recommend that,” we will. That doesn’t mean you're doing something wrong, you’re a terrible saver/investor, or you’ll never reach that “enjoyable life.” It means we believe an alternative route benefits you in the long run and better matches your money to your needs and goals. The recommendation will not include an automatic “no” or “don’t do that”; it’ll sound something like: “let’s review your financial plan and get an understanding of the long-term impact of doing this versus not doing this.”

Now… you’re on to something!

Now… you’re aligning your money with what you find most valuable in life.

Now… you’re in the refreshing world of financially informed decision-making!

That is where you want to be! So go beyond Y.O.L.O., remove the “hard line in the sand,” and say goodbye to buyer’s remorse and F.O.M.O.

Replace these feelings with a methodical and balanced plan that delivers a high emotional return on every dollar spent!

Plan, then purchase!

Shean