The Need to Learn Cursive and Math

In today’s digital age, many people argue against the need to memorize facts for tests or everyday tasks. The rationale often goes, “I’ll be okay as long as I know where to find the information.” With resources like Google at our fingertips, it’s easy to see the merit in this perspective.

However, consider this: what happens when you give a calculator to someone who doesn’t understand basic math? More often than not, they won’t arrive at the right answer. This highlights an important truth: knowing how to perform calculations is essential for effectively using a calculator. The device is only as useful as the questions posed by the user.

The same principle applies to planning a successful retirement. While a wealth of information is readily available online—covering everything from investments and income planning to tax strategies and estate management—merely having access to this data isn’t enough. If we have all this knowledge at our disposal, why aren’t we all managing our finances and planning our retirements ourselves? The answer lies in our understanding of how to synthesize and utilize that information.

To effectively leverage the resources available, retirees must first know the right questions to ask. Just as a calculator user needs to ask it for the square root of 256 to get the answer—16—they must understand the mechanics of the math involved in order for the answer to mean anything useful. Similarly, those looking to maintain their lifestyle in retirement must grasp the fundamentals of creating a solid retirement income plan. Only then can they identify the right investments, strategies, and products to achieve their desired outcomes.

This understanding is why education plays such a vital role in the retirement planning process. We offer classes that cover a variety of retirement-related topics, ensuring that retirees develop a strong foundational knowledge. When individuals comprehend how retirement income planning actually works, they’re better equipped to evaluate the advice they receive and verify if the answers they’re given are accurate, appropriate, and beneficial.

If you know others who might benefit from retirement-focused education, consider sharing this information with them. Encourage them to contact us to attend one of our educational events or to schedule a discovery conversation. By fostering an environment where people feel empowered to ask the right questions, we can help them achieve better results in their retirement planning efforts.

We’re dedicated to the successful retirement of our clients and their loved ones. If you or someone you care about is navigating this critical phase of life, please reach out to us for guidance and support. We’re here to help make the process smoother and more rewarding.

While calculators and online resources provide valuable support, they’re most effective when paired with a fundamental understanding of the underlying concepts. Just as knowing how to perform basic math enhances one’s ability to use a calculator, a solid grasp of retirement planning principles empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their futures. By investing in education and understanding, retirees can navigate their journey with confidence, ensuring they achieve the fulfilling retirement they envision.

And as far as cursive handwriting goes, how will we enjoy those old letters from grandma if we can’t read what they say?!