The S&P 500 is currently sitting at a new all-time high. The index is up more than 20% this year, after gains of 18% and 31% the last two years. Not bad. We haven’t even had a correction of more than 5% since last November. It’s never been a better (or easier) time to be… Read more »
As explained in Morgan Housel’s book, “The Psychology of Money,” the most important word in building personal wealth is having “enough.” Being content with your standard of living allows you to focus on how you want to spend your time, rather than chasing more dollars. Having “enough” doesn’t mean you don’t have aspirations. It creates… Read more »
Often times our identity is so tangled up in what we do for a living that it’s difficult to imagine doing anything else. While some retirees may enjoy an empty schedule, you may be worried that you will fall into a trap of never ending boredom. What does my ideal week look like? … Read more »
Spending what they don’t have works for politicians at the national level (who don’t need to balance a budget). Cutting taxes and/or increasing spending brings home the bacon and provides job security. History is instructive in this regard. Ronald Reagan increased the national debt by 186% while in office, percentage wise higher than debt… Read more »
During your working years, financial incentives tend to make decisions for you. As you age toward retirement, you’re able to make decisions allowing your money to serve you, rather than continuing to be a servant for the money. Just as an unhealthy relationship may string you along with false promises and expectations, many employers… Read more »
It’s no secret the housing market is hot and low rates are part of what’s fueling the fire. According to Bankrate, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate is currently at 3.33%, while the average 30-year fixed mortgage refinance rate is just behind that at 3.35%. Before rushing into a new loan, here are a few… Read more »
The term “overview effect” was coined in 1987 by author Frank White to describe the intense awe astronauts feel when viewing the earth from space. Astronauts report viewing the earth as incredibly “fragile” and have been documented to see the earth (and life itself) differently upon their return, wanting to protect the earth (and all… Read more »
During your work life you exchange your time and energy for money in order to support your lifestyle. As you approach retirement, it’s important to strike a balance between having means, and having meaning in your life. While you may think you’re going to live forever that certainly is not the case. Does it… Read more »
Many retirees are surprised by the cost of health care during retirement. Although you have been paying into Medicare during your work career, many retirees fail to realize the limitations of Medicare coverage. You will likely need a supplemental insurance policy to cover the gaps in Medicare coverage. With that said, here are some tips… Read more »
