Year-End Reflections: The Connection Between Empathy and Expertise

As the year draws to a close, it’s a natural time to look back and reflect on lessons learned and growth experienced. Driven by a commitment to both empathy and expertise, each insight we share is designed to help you make more informed financial decisions and is grounded in the belief that financial planning should reflect your values, not just your bank balance. In the spirit of the season, we’re taking a trip down memory lane and revisiting some of our favorite blogs from 2024.

Q1 – Crafting Financial Resolutions with a Return on Life Perspective

January gave us a fresh start, and we used it to rethink the typical approach to financial resolutions. We introduced the idea of a “Return on Life” (ROL)—encouraging clients to look beyond traditional financial goals and consider how their resources can help fulfill broader life aspirations. True wealth isn’t just about the numbers; it’s about creating a life full of experiences, relationships, and meaning. By shifting the focus from what we save to how we live, we hope to help people build financial plans that reflect their deepest values.

Q2 – Building Resilience in Retirement

By June, we delved into some of the challenges and opportunities that retirement brings, particularly for women. The transition to retirement isn’t just financial—it’s a transformation that touches every aspect of life. Our discussion on financial resilience included practical questions about income sources, security, and emergency savings. But beyond the numbers, we recognized the need for emotional and mental resilience as well. This blog reflected both the empathy required to understand the nuances of this life phase and the expertise necessary to build a comprehensive plan that empowers women to face the future with confidence.

Q3 – Inherited Wisdom

As summer unfolded, we explored the profound impact of family history on financial behavior. From the lessons handed down through generations to the unspoken beliefs and values surrounding money, our family dynamics shape our financial decisions in ways we might not fully realize. Whether it’s a grandmother’s frugality or a parent’s fear of debt, these lessons are woven into the fabric of our financial identities. With a deep understanding of these influences, we seek to help clients navigate their financial decisions in a way that aligns with their present-day goals.

Q4 – Who’s in Charge? Your Head or Your Heart

As the year drew to a close, we examined the often-complex relationship between emotions and money. From the joy of giving to the stress of debt, money often stirs strong feelings that can cloud judgment or shape decisions in ways that may not serve our long-term interests. Finding the balance between head and heart is key to making decisions that are both wise and aligned with long-term goals. This blog encouraged clients to take a thoughtful approach, considering both practical needs and emotional well-being as they move forward in their financial lives.

Looking Ahead: A Happy Holiday Season and a Bright New Year

As we approach the holidays and look forward to the new year, we’re grateful for the opportunity to guide clients through their financial journeys. It’s been a year of deep reflection and meaningful progress, and we look forward to continuing to support you in 2025. Here’s to a bright new year filled with purpose, growth, and a financial plan that aligns with what matters most to you.

Happy Holidays and Happy New Year from all of us at The Humphreys Group!

 

Diane Bourdo, CFP®
Diane Bourdo, CFP®

Diane Bourdo is the President of The Humphreys Group. Diane has dedicated her life’s work to helping women make smart financial decisions. For nearly 30 years, she has developed investment management and financial planning strategies that allow her clients to create lives that reflect their values. Diane was named an InvestmentNews 2020 Women to Watch and has been recognized in Forbes, SF Chronicle, NY Times and more for her work and writing.

Diane Bourdo, CFP®
Diane Bourdo, CFP®

Diane Bourdo is the President of The Humphreys Group. Diane has dedicated her life’s work to helping women make smart financial decisions. For nearly 30 years, she has developed investment management and financial planning strategies that allow her clients to create lives that reflect their values. Diane was named an InvestmentNews 2020 Women to Watch and has been recognized in Forbes, SF Chronicle, NY Times and more for her work and writing.

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