The holidays are behind us, and we are well on our way into the new year! We often see January as a time for fresh starts, new goals, and renewed motivation. New Year’s resolutions tend to inspire us to purchase gym memberships, commit to reading more, or pledge to spend more time with family and friends, but have you thought about making your finances a priority in 2017?
As you reflect on 2016 and plan ahead for a new year, this is an ideal time to focus your attention on your financial plan and set yourself up for a successful 2017.
Why Is A Financial Plan So Important?
We generally create strategies and plans for our lives so that we have something to aim for. A plan gives us a target, something to keep in the forefront of our minds as we go about our daily lives. A financial plan provides security and helps you define short and long-term goals, spot obstacles that need to be overcome, and monitor your finances as life changes come your way. Having a plan will help you get on track for your retirement so you can focus on today instead of worrying about tomorrow.
A Plan to Increase Wealth
Did you know that while approximately 96% of pre-retirees and 89% of retirees are concerned about their financial future, only 50% meet with a financial advisor to discuss their situation? (1) Meeting with an advisor doesn’t only give you confidence and peace of mind, it provides real results! The data presented in an HSBC study on the future of retirement shows us that those who created a financial plan amassed nearly 250% more retirement savings than those without a plan. (2) Now are you convinced you need a plan?
A Plan to Cover the Details
Furthermore, having an advisor on your financial support team means that you also have someone to take care of details that might go overlooked or seem overwhelming, such as tax strategies, risk management, or estate planning. You may think you don’t have enough money to benefit from having a financial advisor, but those who plan for their financial future are more prepared for their retirement, and this is true regardless of what you make. (3)
So, what can you expect from a financial plan?
A Financial Plan Tailored For You
What does a financial plan include? It involves much more than just investing in an IRA or putting some money aside for your child’s education. When we sit down to analyze your individual needs, here are some questions we will discuss:
- Are you on track for retirement?
- Could you benefit from estate planning?
- Do you have adequate insurance coverage?
- Is there too much risk in your portfolio?
- Are you paying too much in fees?
- Have you considered succession planning for your business?
- Are there simple ways to reach your goals quicker?
We look at the whole picture to ensure that your financial health is top-notch. We not only provide comprehensive services and ongoing financial advice and education, but we also collaborate with other members of your financial support team, such as your CPA and attorney. Don’t be part of the majority who worries about their financial future, but instead, make 2017 the year that your finances thrive. Your first step to a secure financial future is to make a plan. If you know that you need to take control of your finances, update your strategy, or review your portfolio, make an appointment now by contacting me by phone at (949) 631-3840 or email at jpeters@cfiemail.com.
About Jim Peters
Jim Peters is an independent financial advisor and the founder of Grace Wealth Management Group, Inc., a full-service financial firm committed to helping people pursue their financial goals. With more than 24 years of experience in the industry, Jim combines his extensive knowledge with his genuine interest in helping people pursue financial independence. Beyond his experience, he is certified as both a Chartered Life Underwriter® (CLU®) and Chartered Financial Consultant® (ChFC®), meaning he has advanced training and knowledge in financial planning and insurance. Based in Irvine, California, Jim specializes in working with individuals, families, and businesses throughout Orange County. To learn more, connect with Jim on LinkedIn or visit www.financialadvisorirvine.com.
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(1) https://www.soa.org/Files/Research/research-2014-retire-survey-findings.pdf
(2) http://www.hsbc.com/~/media/HSBC-com/about-hsbc/structure-and-network/retirement/pdfs/130905-life-after-work.ashx?WT.ac=HGHQ_FR_nr1.2_On
(3) https://www.cfp.net/docs/news-events---research-facts-figures/2012_household_financial_planning_survey.pdf?sfvrsn=2