Clients come to us for technical financial and tax advice. Surprisingly, helping them define and achieve NON-financial goals is what often makes their lives more fulfilling.

Money is a means to achieving financial goals, but it is not a goal. It’s how you use your money that matters. Maybe you want to make art full time? home-school a grandchild? volunteer as a museum guide? care for a newborn grandchild for a few years?  

When I tell people I’m a financial advisor, they often react by asking for my opinion on the stock market. Of course, I oblige. For the record, however, math and Excel skills are only part of my job.

The advice clients value most and that we provide is more personal and deeper. It’s help with defining NON-financial goals, which allocates assets to achieve your greatest aspirations, to accomplish what’s in your heart, what you want to be remembered for. This elevates wealth management to life planning. 

Maybe the best way to describe my job is financial counseling. Technical knowledge of investing, tax and financial history are pre-requisites. Financial counseling, however, is about people, not predicting the next market turn. 

It’s understandable why people ask for my opinion about the stock market, but this is to let everyone know that technical knowledge is not nearly as important in my practice as listening, understanding, and offering constructive feedback about what’s most important to you.

Nothing contained herein is to be considered a solicitation, research material, an investment recommendation, or advice of any kind, and it is subject to change without notice. Any investments or strategies referenced herein do not take into account the investment objectives, financial situation or particular needs of any specific person. Product suitability must be independently determined for each individual investor. Tax advice always depends on your particular personal situation and preferences. You should consult the appropriate financial professional regarding your specific circumstances. The material represents an assessment of financial, economic and tax law at a specific point in time and is not intended to be a forecast of future events or a guarantee of future results. Forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties. Actual results, performance, or achievements may differ materially from those expressed or implied. Information is based on data gathered from what we believe are reliable sources. It is not guaranteed as to accuracy, does not purport to be complete, and is not intended to be used as a primary basis for investment decisions. This article was written by a professional financial journalist for Advisor Products and is not intended as legal or investment advice.