What contributes to satisfaction in retirement? It certainly isn’t just finances. Completing the retirement equation means talking about and striving for fulfillment, happiness, and satisfaction in retirement. Preparing for social and emotional issues that may arise during your retirement can be uncomfortable to consider and discuss. Many people feel embarrassed to talk about their unhappiness when they retire – they have saved for a comfortable life, they have free time, they have met their financial...

We often discuss the challenges and opportunities people face during the transitional time period that accompanies retirement. Retirement is something that is marked by a specific event in our lives, so it seemingly has a beginning and we are equipped to work through this transition because, by definition, we know when it is going to take place. In contrast, there are other transitional periods in life that are not as clearly defined. I recently read...

Living life the way we envision as peaceful, abundant, secure and fulfilling is what many call the American Dream. Quality of life is a meaningful part of our needs to feel happy and safe in our lives. Unfortunately, from social isolation to diminished health to poor eating habits, people’s quality of life is at risk as they age. There are many factors that can contribute to a reduced quality of life and there are planning...

When it comes to financial planning, we spend a lot of time talking with our clients about what they want their financial legacy to be. Beyond the money and assets, they will leave to their family and charities they care about, we often discuss how that legacy will be used and what financial philosophies they will leave behind. For example, clients may have misgivings about leaving substantial assets to their children for fear it will...

You have seen it a thousand times: “We help you reach your financial goals.” It is the tagline for the majority of financial advisors. And before you say to yourself, “Well Kathy, we have seen you use those exact words too.”, I will fully disclose that I am as guilty as the next guy or gal. We use it all the time. But it got me thinking about the relationships that we have with our...

A great deal of emphasis is placed on saving for retirement–as it should be. It is probably one of the most important long-term investments you will make in your life. But what is not discussed as frequently or in as much detail is how people withdraw money from their retirement savings accounts and other investments. It is not a cut and dry process, as taking from one pot could cost you more than withdrawing from...