Today’s Steps; Tomorrow’s Foundation

Inaction breeds doubt and fear. Action breeds confidence and courage.
— Dale Carnegie

Today, I want to touch on something we’ve all felt before: the sensation of being frozen by financial decisions, as if in a holding pattern while life moves right along.

It’s a state I see so often, and it usually starts with one small thought: “I’ll deal with it later.” But here’s the thing—even inaction is a form of action.

Every day you stay on pause, you’re building a financial future, one way or another.

Let’s dig into what this means, and what you can do today to start taking control, no matter where you’re at in your financial journey.

What’s Really at Stake? 📈

Retirement readiness, legacy goals, and financial stability are all shaped by the choices (and non-choices) you make today.

  • Retirement: Even if it feels far off, or maybe even too close, every day you don’t actively engage with your retirement plans is a missed opportunity

  • Legacy: Whether it’s for your family or causes you’re passionate about, shaping your legacy starts now

  • Financial Stability: With inflation and economic shifts, securing today’s money is key to building tomorrow’s security

Remember, a passive approach is still making progress—just not necessarily in the direction you want.

Breaking Free from “Frozen” 🌅

Feeling stuck is normal, and moving forward can feel daunting. Here’s how you can take that first step:

  1. Identify a Small Step: Often, we feel overwhelmed because the path looks too big to tackle. Try starting with one small move: open a retirement account, review your credit score, or write down your financial goals. Small steps are easier to handle and give you momentum.

  2. Set Micro-Goals: Pick a manageable milestone to build your confidence. Instead of thinking, “I need a full retirement plan,” think, “This week, I’ll just research a retirement savings account.”

  3. Embrace Accountability: Find someone you trust to check in on your progress. This might be a friend, family member, or financial advisor (👋 hi there!). Having accountability can make all the difference.

  4. Let Go of “Perfect”: Many of us avoid financial planning because we feel we don’t know enough. Perfection isn’t necessaryprogress is. Start where you are, with what you have.

A Little Push Past “I Can Do It Myself” 🌸

Let’s talk about something I hear often: “I don’t need help; I’ll figure it out.” For some, this belief is a badge of honor.

But here’s the truth: asking for guidance doesn’t mean you’re giving up control. Instead, it’s a smart strategy.

Working with someone who knows the landscape can bring you peace of mind and confidence in your decisions.

  • Reflect on the Value of a Fresh Perspective: Sometimes, all we need is a new angle on an old problem.

  • Build Your Team of Support: Maybe you start with a friend who’s financially savvy, or maybe a coach or financial planner. Every small support structure counts.

Take Your First Real Step Today 🚶‍♀️

Inaction is still action—it’s just action by default.

Ask yourself, “What small action can I take today to improve my financial future?”

Maybe it’s reaching out for guidance, researching retirement plans, or even committing to finally look at that stack of unopened financial statements.

Today’s choices build tomorrow’s foundation.

~Jess

P.S. It doesn’t matter where you’re starting from—it only matters that you start. Let’s make this journey a positive one together. I’d love to help you take that first, confident step. If you’re ready to chat, ​reach out and let's talk​. 🙏

 

Whenever you’re ready, there are 3 ways I can help you!

  1. Organize Your Money Course: Are you ready to take control of your financial future, instead of letting it control you? This course will help relieve your financial anxiety and get you back on track.

  2. Book a 1-on-1 Meeting: Whether you’re looking for assistance with your financial planning needs or are in the financial industry and you want to learn how to grow your practice, I can help.

  3. Lake Avenue Financial: If you’re looking to build a relationship with a team who can help simplify, educate, relieve the stress caused by money decisions and make sure you are on your way to financial independence, we are here to help!

 

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Taking the First Step After Loss

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Essential Estate Planning