A wise man (my father-in-law!) once said about the stock market, “If you’re not in it for the long-term, you shouldn’t be in it.” That is true of most situations. It has been encouraging over the last few months to speak with many of you about what’s happening in your individual lives how you are taking it in stride and making the best of it. “We’ll get through it,” and similar comments have shown me that large numbers of our clients have a healthy, long-term perspective. The Coronavirus has given us new challenges and helped us recognize a few misplaced or forgotten priorities.
All through history there have been challenges brought on by wars, famines, and disease. What has helped people through the difficulties? Faith, family, friends, and fresh habits.
Faith
We all know how easy it is to get caught up in the busy-ness of life. Work, recreation, events, sports, travel, etc… All good things, but even too much of a good thing can be destructive. It has been a good reset for my family to not be rushing off on the outings created by work, school, competitions, and all the activities. The foundation is our faith. We are told to rest and trust. It’s healthy, freeing, good medicine for the soul.
Family and Friends
We are social beings and often that’s why we are so busy. But, there is a balance needed. Many of us have gone from having people in our lives to possibly being alone at home without much interaction. One extreme to the other – not good. It will take effort to reach out to family and friends and here’s how I suggest you do it. Write a letter or a note. Not an email. The act of writing with your hand on paper and placing it in an envelope has almost been lost. A hand-written note says more to the recipient because it took extra time and effort. Phone, email, and ZOOM calls are still good, but experiment a little and see what happens to both you and the recipient when you write a letter.
Fresh Habits
Since financial planning is so much a part of my life I’m mindful of being purposeful about how to utilize money but also how to be purposeful about living. I was working from home for about six weeks and my wonderful wife wanted our two girls to get out and exercise several days a week. She instructed them to run around an area of our neighborhood. Our girls are 11 and 13 years old and the running distance was about six-tenths of a mile, a good distance for that age. Early on I was encouraged to join them. I love it! A little exercise, time together, talking, joking, and sunshine. I’ve enjoyed it so much we’ve continued it as often as possible even though I’m back at the office.
So, where do we go from here?
Make the positive commitment to build into your life those things that will bring health, vitality, refreshment, and joy. They are available even if you have to work a little harder to make them happen, but you and those around you will be better for it.
This is meant for educational purposes only. It should not be considered investment advice, nor does it constitute a recommendation to take a particular course of action. Please consult with a financial professional regarding your personal situation prior to making any financial related decisions. (06/20)