April 29, 2025

Tune-out the Noise and Develop a Plan to Guide You

The financial and economic pundits in the news media want you to believe their predictions for the future are certain to come true. They guess on things that they say will have an impact on your financial well-being such as the outcome of presidential elections, the direction of interest rates, when the market will reach… [Continue]

A Mindset for Financial Success

Introduction The news media is constantly reminding you of terrible events occurring locally and around the world each day that you cannot control. In addition, financial gurus are everywhere predicting the direction of the economy and the markets. Listening and watching all of this fills your head with negative thoughts and as a result, you… [Continue]

5 Technical Principles to Master for Financial Success

Introduction When it comes to your financial future, there are things you cannot control such as the stock market, the economy, or major world events. To increase your odds of financial success, I believe it is more important to focus on the things you can control. My Five-by-Five Formula for Financial Success includes five behavioral… [Continue]

5 Behavioral Principles to Master for Financial Success

Introduction I believe that if you are able to focus on what you can consistently control, develop a plan around those things, and stick to the plan over the long term; you will sleep better and have a better chance of reaching your financial goals. You and I cannot control the stock market, the economy,… [Continue]

The Importance of Knowing Your Risk Capacity

If you have worked with a financial advisor, you are likely to have a good understanding of risk tolerance but may not be as familiar with risk capacity. Both are important in determining how much risk you should be taking in your portfolio for your unique financial situation. Defining Risk Tolerance and Risk Capacity Risk… [Continue]

Quick Answer #4 – What is the Florida Achieving a Better Life Experience Act (ABLE)?

Quick Answer The Achieving a Better Life Experience Act, or ABLE Act, was signed into law by President Obama in December 2014.  The ABLE Act amends Section 529 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to create tax-exempt investment accounts for individuals with disabilities (Section 529A accounts). The intent of the ABLE Act is to… [Continue]

Quick Answer #2 – What does pay yourself first mean?

Quick Answer Pay yourself first (PYF) means to redirect a portion of the income you receive to retirement savings, emergency savings, or some other type of savings as soon as you receive it, and before you pay any other bills. In other words, the first bill you pay each month should be to yourself. This… [Continue]

Quick Answer #1 – What is a Qualified Charitable Distribution?

Quick Answer A Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) allows individuals to donate to charity through a distribution from an IRA account. The amount donated counts towards your required minimum distribution (RMD) for the year, and no income taxes are due on the distribution. General Rules Only individuals are allowed to use a QCD. Per person limit… [Continue]