Why planning?

I’ve been in this business for four decades now. The longer I’m here, the more I believe and see examples of why planning is good. Less stress, better prepared, and better reactions because:

1. Organization
2. We have thought through possibilities ahead of time.
3. Being prepared by having:
   1. Discussions that lead to better reactions and thoughts when future changes happen, good or bad!
   2. The placement of assets and products is more appropriate for our path in life.
4. A platform that both client and planner can look at 24 – 7 for better thoughts, discussions, and decisions.

Life brings various situations, some that we can prepare for, some that we know will happen but may never be fully prepared for, and some that are unexpected. By planning well and having a path to follow, we can react quicker, with more knowledge, have better discussions, and make fewer mistakes.

Does this make catastrophes like death or incapacity easy or perfect? Absolutely not! But it makes the unknown easier with less stress. It cannot be overemphasized how difficult old age and change are for those going through them and those around them who care. So planning is a means of making a difficult time better—not perfect, but better.

Even the mundane becomes more manageable as we raise families, change jobs, move, and try to accumulate wealth while balancing our personal lives for a better future. This can be significantly easier if we are organized.

Everyone is different; our potential, talents, and opportunities are unique. But with planning, we can maximize that potential and our God-given gifts to have a better future while making a better today for those we love and care for and creating the capacity to give because of our success.

Is planning essential? Absolutely not! Many people live their lives without planning, even in America. But some people retire broke! If we live our lives randomly without planning or organization, there is probably less worry and definitely less work as we live those lives. But even though lack of planning leads to less work and less worry in the short term, lack of planning leads to not reaching our full potential. Planning takes us from randomness to intentionality of success.

Of course, we cannot guarantee to anyone that they will be the wealthiest or the happiest at the end of the day. But planning will make the path easier to navigate, easier to maximize results, and easier to deal with unforeseen future events. So, should we live a life of randomness for ease today or live a life well-planned and well-thought-out to reach the full potential of our God-given gifts and opportunities?

I know I am slightly biased, but I believe today is a great day to start down the path of planning and intentionality toward being our best for ourselves, those we love, and those we could share our success with! Have a wonderful path forward!

Sincerely,

WAYNE VON BORSTEL, CFP®, CKA®, MSFS, ChFC®, CLU®

The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine which investment(s) may be appropriate for you, consult your financial advisor prior to investing.