Financially, When is Enough, Enough?
Ever wonder how much money it would take for you to feel totally safe and free from financial stress? Take a moment and think about it – what’s your number? Got it? In a number of big studies, researchers asked people the exact same question. The results were stunning, if not saddening. Regardless of the participants’ level of wealth, the …
Debt as a Dance Partner
The Joker, in Tim Burton’s Batman movie loved asking, “Have you ever danced with the devil in the pale moonlight?” What does that mean and why did he say it? “I ask that of all my prey. I just like the sound of it.” Alright, I’ll admit that’s a really cool response. But today I ask you: Have you ever …
Your Five-Year Plan
When I was a kid, I was obsessed with the idea that whatever I chose to do at any moment could change my life forever. I’m not talking about which sports to play or what to say to the cute girl in my class. No, I was focused on what would happen if I snapped my fingers or raised my …
Meet Maximus Dougan
Scott and Jennifer rescued this little cutie from KC Pet Project the past November. Max is a 5-month old Rhodesian Ridgeback. This breeds’ temperament is dignified, mischievous, intelligent, loyal, sensitive and strong-willed. We can agree that he’s all these adjectives!
Team Corner
Congratulations to O.J. Allen, CFP® O.J. recently passed the CFP® certification examination and met all requirements to earn this designation. We are proud to recognize this significant accomplishment and O.J.’s hard work, determination and dedication. The CFP® designation is the highest standard of excellence in the field of personal financial planning. Cheers to O.J.!
Briefcase Study: Do you make New Year’s Resolutions?
Do you make New Year’s Resolutions? Do you also keep New Year’s Resolutions? I’m not a big resolutions guy, but I’m happy to hear from others who’ve had a resolution actually stick. A friend of mine started a resolution to floss his teeth daily starting on January 1st, 2012, and hasn’t missed a day since. When you read this, assuming …
Back to the Basics: New Year Reflection
New Year Reflection: The Mexican Fisherman and the American Businessman As we embark on another year, it’s natural to think about our goals and ambitions—working harder, saving more, and striving for greater ‘success’. But amidst this drive, it’s worth pausing to reflect on what we truly want out of life. One story that captures this sentiment beautifully is the parable …
2025 Winter Newsletter: Kansas City
For those of you who are keeping score at home, 2025 is underway. Wow. I’m not sure about you, but when someone tells a story about something that happened 30 years ago, I still imagine they’re talking about the 1970s or ’80s. My time calculator hasn’t been updated in a long while and I’m not sure that’ll change anytime soon. …
Why Do Retirees Feel Busier Than When They Had Jobs?
Have you heard of Parkinson’s Law? This principle states that “work expands so as to fill the time available for its completion.” This concept could shed light on the bewilderment many retirees experience. When individuals transition into retirement, they suddenly have more time for tasks and activities. Paradoxically, this newfound time can lead to an overwhelming sense of busyness, as …
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 …
