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White Oak Insights

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Tanya Werger

February 06, 2026

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Rooted beginnings, image of family, tree, handshake

Rooted Beginnings: Setting Intentional Financial Priorities for the Year Ahead

Good afternoon,

 

A new year naturally invites reflection; not just on what we want to accomplish, but on what truly matters most in the months ahead. At White Oak Wealth, we believe the most effective financial priorities are the ones rooted in meaning. Rather than chasing quick wins or creating overwhelming checklists, intentional planning starts by stepping back and aligning your financial life with your values, your goals, and the season of life you’re in right now.

 

As you look toward the year ahead, here are a few grounded ways to set priorities that feel purposeful, not pressured:

 

1. Begin With What Matters Most

Before thinking about numbers, think about why you’re planning in the first place. Is this a year focused on family? Stability? Growth? Simplification?

Your financial decisions should support the life you’re building, not the other way around. Try one simple exercise: write down three things that matter most to you this year. These become your compass and will guide everything that follows.

 

 2. Revisit Your Financial Foundation

Just like a White Oak tree grows strong from deep, steady roots, your financial plan benefits from a solid foundation. Early in the year is the perfect time to:

  • Review your cash flow and spending patterns
  • Update beneficiaries and key documents
  • Reassess insurance and risk protection
  • Revisit savings and emergency fund goals

Small adjustments here create long-term stability and peace of mind.

 

3. Choose One or Two Meaningful Goals, Not Ten

Many people overwhelm themselves with long lists of financial resolutions.

But the truth is: clarity beats intensity. Pick one or two goals that truly matter; whether that’s paying down a liability, increasing automated savings, or setting aside funds for a future milestone. Focused goals lead to real progress, while scattered goals tend to fade by spring.

 

4. Make Space for Life’s Changes

Your financial plan should grow alongside you. Whether you’re starting a new career, welcoming family changes, approaching retirement, or simply entering a new season of life, build flexibility into your plan. Life rarely moves in a straight line and your financial priorities shouldn’t have to either. A grounded plan adapts gracefully.

 

 5. Partner With Someone Who Knows Your Story

Financial planning is easier and far more meaningful when you’re not doing it alone. A trusted advisor becomes a partner in your journey, helping you clarify your priorities, anticipate challenges, and stay aligned with what matters most.

This is at the heart of how we serve: not as investment advisors alone, but as steady guides through every season of your financial life.

 

 A Year Rooted in Intention

As the new year begins, give yourself permission to plan with purpose, not pressure. Intentional financial priorities create not only stronger financial outcomes, but a life that feels grounded, meaningful, and aligned.

Here’s to a year of clarity, confidence, and growth; all rooted in what matters most.

 

A question for reflection:

As you look ahead to the year ahead, what would it mean for your financial priorities to truly reflect what matters most in your life right now?

 

Stay Connected

Don’t miss future editions: subscribe to this newsletter on LinkedIn to receive the latest insights and updates directly to your inbox.

 

Until next time,

 

The White Oak Wealth Team

Rooted in What Matters Most

 

At White Oak Wealth, we believe true wealth isn’t just measured in numbers; it’s measured in meaning. Through every season of life, we’re here to help you stay grounded, make thoughtful decisions, and build a life and legacy that reflect what matters most to you and the generations that follow.

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CIBC Private Wealth” consists of services provided by CIBC and certain of its subsidiaries through CIBC Private Banking; CIBC Private Investment Counsel, a division of CIBC Asset Management Inc. (“CAM”); CIBC Trust Corporation; and CIBC Wood Gundy, a division of CIBC World Markets Inc. (“WMI”). CIBC Private Banking provides solutions from CIBC Investor Services Inc. (“ISI”), CAM and credit products. CIBC Private Wealth services are available to qualified individuals. Insurance services are only available through CIBC Wood Gundy Financial Services Inc. In Quebec, insurance services are only available through CIBC Wood Gundy Financial Services (Quebec) Inc.


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