I’m often caught up by words or phrases in popular songs and think they would be a good theme for a blog. Michael Jackson’s “MAN IN THE MIRROR” lyrics are an example. Although I don’t connect with all the lyrics, the following verse certainly resonates with me; “I’m starting with the man in the mirror, I’m asking him to change his ways. And no message could be any clearer; if you want to make the world a better place take a look at yourself and then make that Change!”
Insanity all around us
Doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results. We’ve heard it many times in a variety of situations . . . how to lose weight, save more money, arrive on time, workout consistently, reduce your golf handicap without practicing, etc. etc. And those are just ones I deal with.
Michael’s words encourage us to change to make the world a better place. Altruistically I say that is right on point. We can easily see people, causes, countries, that could use our help. The more willing we are to share our wealth, our talent, our time, the better the world can become. So lets all pitch in and do a little bit to help our neighbor. And while we’re making the world a better place, I say let’s do more to make OUR SELF a better life. If we act responsibly to that end, won’t that make the world better?
Start small and simply
People who provide advice on changing habits usually admonish not to expect too much too quickly. Certainly don’t try to change too many things all at once. That advice fits right into my approach with clients. We start with the “rule of 3.” Pick 3 concerns –retirement, taxes, estate preservation. Or 3 people–kids, spouse, parents. Or 3 something–no more– to work on. Even after you narrow your focus to 3, there will be more effort placed on each one sequentially than all at one time.
What is your weakness of choice?
You are Number 1. Making a better Number 1 starts by picking a weakness that you want to improve. We get better when we “fix” a weakness. Are you saving enough for retirement? Do you have a will? Will your family survive financially if you die prematurely? Do you have ongoing credit card debt? Do you like yourself? Are you physically fit? Do you give freely? The list goes on . . .
Now what?
There are specialists to help you with almost every weakness you can imagine. I can cover most of my client’s financial concerns and guide them to other specialists when necessary. Often the concern is “where do I start, who with, how do I find her, what questions do I ask, how do I know when I have found the right person?” I’ll work through that in my next blog, but here is one simple tip to get you started; multiply your current monthly expenses by 20 and the result is the amount you will need to have saved by the time you retire. I can help.