This past year I read a book for personal growth and it had such a profound impact on me. As I read it, I kept thinking about the ties to the advice we often give as part of financial planning.

Life’s Greatest Lesson by Dr. Allen Hunt is written from a young boy’s perspective at the death of his Grandma Lavish. He is struck by how many people come to the wake with such personal stories about how his grandmother touched their lives deeply. He seeks out his grandfather to learn more, especially about the bracelet she always wore that said LEGS.

Over a period of time and through many stories, the grandfather reveals what LEGS stood for in their lives. I could see a wonderful correlation to financial planning.

• LOVE all you can
• EARN all you can
• GIVE all you can
• SAVE all you can

Love

Sharing your positive energy and love with those in your family and community rather than a self-centered focus can be very rewarding.

Earn 

Investing in your skills so that you can be the most productive in your work life often leads to a greater earning potential.

Give

Generously giving of your resources–time, treasure, talent–has an incredible way of flowing back to you in your lifetime so you can continue to give.

Save

Under spending in one’s life and saving gives tremendous economic freedom to live your life well.

Some of the most “successful” people we have met through our financial planning practice are those who live the above. They actively make these guidelines a priority in their lives.

Recently, I was asked by the Patriot Ledger to participate in the Economic Advisory Panel’s New Year resolution story and I shared my intentions based upon this book. Enjoy. Happy New Year! May this be your best year yet!