By John McBride
The end of the year is upon us, and many of us are ready to put 2020 in the rearview mirror. While we may not yet be out of the woods regarding the pandemic, it feels like we are beginning to see light at the end of the tunnel.
While we anxiously await that light and what new normal that may bring, it is important to reflect on the key learnings from this year, and takeaways that we will not want to forget.
1. We Are Resilient
As a nation, we have experienced significant trials and tribulations. We have persevered through world wars, deaths of presidents, and painful recessions, just to name a few. As we have witnessed during this pandemic, our society has adapted to new work environments, improved digital learning within our education system, innovated ways to shop and dine locally, and stay connected with our family and friends through virtual channels.
As the end of 2020 approaches, we know that there are still challenges we are facing, and yet the strength of the human spirit has shown its resilience, and its ability to progress and move forward no matter the obstacle it faces.
2. Focus On What You Can Control
There is one thing we know about uncertainty – that it is certain. There will always be elements in our lives that we are unable to control and it is easy to feel overwhelmed when faced with volatility in our economy, a health crisis that looms over our heads, and disruption to our daily habits; it is more than enough to raise stress levels. That is why it is critical during these times that we focus on the aspects of our lives that we do have control over, the decisions we make each day: how we spend time with our loved ones, what we eat and how we exercise, making wise financial decisions, progressing in our work, and how we find joy in our free time.
3. Stick To Your Plan
Turbulent times are an opportunity to put your plan to the test. A plan that weathers a global pandemic is a stable plan that is working as intended. A long-term plan keeps us grounded emotionally and provides confidence in our decisions, even during volatile short-term disruptions.
If you do not have a solid plan for your finances, it is imperative that you create one. Without a plan to hang on to, it is easy to be blown around in the short-term turbulence. A comprehensive and purposeful plan helps you stay focused on your most pressing long-term goals; for many, that is the ability to step away from work, with enough wealth to live on and most importantly, be safeguarded for what matters most: security for you and your family. You’ve done a great job accumulating your wealth, but now you have to take the next step to ensure it’s protected.
4. Community Matters
Prior to 2020, the need for community felt like it was beginning to diminish. We could open our phone, and have nearly anything on its way to our door, replace a garage door opener or fix the sink just by watching a video online, and have access to the endless resource of entertainment available at all times. Our busy lives, and ability to have instant access to information has begun to push away our need for community.
Now, the COVID crisis, in such a short timeframe, has disrupted the normalcy of human contact that we were so used to. Feeling this separation in such a jarring way has revealed just how important having that community connection really is. Although many of our gatherings have been relegated to Zoom meetings and virtual happy hours, many of us are looking forward to the day when we can gather again, and genuinely feel those around us. Something you can do immediately for your community is to shop small business and order from your local restaurants near you, because community matters.
5. Be Thankful
Just because something is cliché, should not diminish the truth of it. If 2020 has taught us anything, it is to not take anything for granted, no matter how meager it may seem. This holiday season, we will be thinking of our loved ones, our family, and our friends – but take some time and reflect on the little joys that surround you every day. Whatever that may be, a walk with your dog, cup of coffee at sunrise, the one person at work that laughs at your bad jokes (these are completely hypothetical), take a moment each day and enjoy the little things.
We Help You Turn Lemons Into Lemonade
We are here for you. At Stewardship Wealth Advisors, we believe there is no better time than today to prepare for your financial future with thoughtfulness and intentionality.
If you’re ready to prepare for 2021 (and beyond) and would like to partner with a financial advisor who can help you make the best of your situation in 2020, reach out to us at 623.251.7282, or email us at john@swa.financial to schedule a free introductory meeting.
About Stewardship Wealth Advisors
Stewardship Wealth Advisors is an independent, fee-based comprehensive financial planning firm dedicated to empowering clients to steward their wealth well and maximize their hard work and dedication. With decades of experience, our team of advisors builds a foundational relationship to create a personalized financial plan to help their clients reach their goals and achieve financial independence. To learn more about what we do and how we can help you, connect with us online.
