There is a lot going on in the world. 

 

From what seems like the never-ending pandemic that we’re all enduring, that’s affecting different aspects of our lives, to the social, political, and environmental turmoil that all seems to be bubbling to the surface at an extreme.  No matter how you slice it, you’ve got to admit that there is a lot of STRESS in the world. 

 

As someone who cares and wants to help, it’s hard for me to know what to do sometimes – I feel pulled in so many different directions.  It upsets me to see that although we've made so many great advances in our world, there are currently giant set backs in so many aspects of life, that I want to help change and want to advocate for.  At the same time, I realize that I have my own little world to think about – my family, my friends, my clients whom I’ve made the utmost commitment to – to, under any and all circumstances, handle their life savings/legacies which represents their life work with the utmost care - and finally, myself. 

 

I have always been one to take my responsibilities very seriously and have wanted to operate at a high level.  I have realized, however, through many tough life lessons that the only way to do that is if I myself, am strong and healthy.  One thing I do know is that if I’m not ok, if I’m not taking care of myself and my needs, then I am no good to anyone else or to any cause I want to dedicate myself to.  When I’m taking care of myself, I can take care of others.

 

One thing that’s always been important to me is health and wellness.  I see this as my foundation.  Stress affects our health, and health is our foundation (in my opinion), and this is why wellness is an overarching pillar of my business.  I believe that if I am doing what I can to stay strong mentally and physically, and also finding ways to nurture the important relationships in my life, and find joy in my day to day life, then I can show up fully for my responsibilities all while living a full life. 

 

To me, money has always meant freedom.  At a young age I knew that life would be riddled with challenges that I could not control, and I had a goal of not allowing money to add to that.  If I could experience financial freedom, then I would have the capacity to deal with life’s challenges, and to also enjoy it.

 

I read a recent article sent out to CFP holders, and it rang so true to me, and really validated all of what I said above.  Here is the link that I think is a good weekend read, and which I hope you take the time to read: https://www.financialplanningforcanadians.ca/articles/if-you-care-about-your-health-you-must-tend-to-your-finances

 

There’s enough going on in the world, especially right now, so if money is something that is stressing you out, please reach out and let me help you with that.

 

As always, I wish you all wealth & wellness,

Josephine