Do You See Your Doctor When You Are Sick or When You Are Healthy?
The Value of Financial Planning: Beyond Products and Investments
When I first entered the financial planning industry in 1986, I encountered a common refrain from potential clients: “When I have money, I’ll go see you.” At the time, financial planners were primarily product sellers, and most people avoided them because they didn’t perceive a need or want for those products. Computer-generated financial plans were often used as a tool to convince clients of the suitability of the products being sold, such as mutual funds, annuities, and cash-value life insurance policies. Disillusioned, I left the industry in 1988, only to rediscover my passion for financial planning through a different lens.
The Power of Comprehensive Planning:
During my time away from the industry, I pursued a CPA designation and worked for a boutique accounting and consulting firm catering to wealthy real estate developers facing financial challenges—similar to the times we find ourselves in today. What struck me was that these clients valued planning that was comprehensive and focused on the process, rather than pushing specific products. They sought advice from trusted advisors who provided guidance without any conflicts of interest tied to product sales.
The Impact of Sound Advice:
In those early years, I witnessed how financial planning advice, divorced from product sales, could save families from financial hardships, costly mistakes, and long recovery periods. A single piece of advice, thoughtfully tailored to a client’s situation, could potentially save them significant time, money, and heartache. I recall one client, an elderly gentleman, who shared that a couple of the recommendations we provided had offered him immense value, far surpassing the fees he had paid us.
Financial Planning as a Solution:
Over the years, my experiences have reinforced the notion that financial planning, rather than merely focusing on products and investments, can truly transform lives. It goes beyond the transactional aspect of buying and selling financial instruments; it is a holistic approach aimed at improving an individual’s financial well-being and helping them achieve their goals. Waiting until you feel financially secure to seek the guidance of a fee-only financial planner is akin to delaying a doctor’s visit until you’re healthy or postponing a dental appointment until the toothache subsides. It doesn’t make sense.
Embracing the Value of Financial Planning:
Today, I firmly believe that working with a fee-only financial planner can provide immense value, even when you may feel financially constrained. A fee-only financial planner focuses solely on providing objective advice and guidance tailored to your unique circumstances and aspirations. By seeking their expertise, you gain access to a wealth of knowledge, strategies, and insights that can empower you to make informed decisions and improve your financial situation.
Financial planning is not about selling products; it is about understanding and addressing your financial needs, goals, and challenges. It is a dynamic and ongoing process that encompasses comprehensive advice, tailored strategies, and personalized guidance to help you achieve financial well-being. Don’t wait for better financial circumstances to seek the help of a fee-only financial planner. Embrace the value of financial planning as a means to gain control, save money, avoid costly mistakes, and ultimately secure a brighter financial future. Remember, the right advice can provide invaluable benefits that far exceed the fees you pay.
Author
Louis Barajas
Confessions of a Financial Planner
Do You See Your Doctor When You Are Sick or When You Are Healthy?
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