A wise man once told me that virtue is developed through a string of habits. It’s too hard to plan for being virtuous, but a habit is a task you can tackle. Schoolteachers, doctors, personal trainers and other professions have come to understand their jobs are more than identifying and fixing weaknesses—they are coaches who teach and encourage lifestyle changes which start small and add up to success. They understand the importance of getting their students, patients and clients to own behavior changes required to accomplish something, which empowers people rather than making them feel dependent over time.
The foundation of what we do is planning and prudent investing, and those responsibilities do not go away; we just have to do more. Money alone is not what makes people happy, and most people could use help maximizing the fullness of their lives, beyond their wallets. When we help clients focus on life goals, we are in listening and coaching mode, giving them a space to discuss feelings and concerns while they plan doable action steps. We’re helping them become stronger and more in control of their lives, and that is incredibly valuable.
In times like these, when it’s hard to predict the future, centering client conversations on what can be improved easily, affordably and immediately in their lives is the best gift ever. Wishing you and yours the happiest of holidays and a wonderful New Year!
Gail Graham is chief marketing officer at United Capital, an innovative and fast-growing financial life management firm with a unique approach to the market. Having earned awards in retail investor and advisor marketing, Graham is driving United Capital’s brand development, marketing and lead generation across all channels. Follow her on Twitter: @GailGrahamUC