Take a walk with your spouse. Tell your children a story from your childhood. Build a snowman. Hold the door for someone else. What do these activities have to do with financial planning?
An interesting article we read in Financial Advisor Magazine entitled, “Fulling Frugality” by Raymond Fazzi showcased a concept called Live Big which was adopted by the firm Yeske Buie Wealth Management. Their philosophy underlines a simple, but powerful message: “Yes, money is important, but not as important as living life to the fullest and appreciating the precious things that money can’t buy.” In light of the holiday season – usually synonymous with over spending – it’s refreshing to hear advise like theirs: “In these crazy economic times, it can sometimes be difficult to remember the areas in our life where we can Live Big without spending (much, if any) money.” This developed into a list of simple but fulling activities so take a look at their “Live Big” list of activities or start one of your own. Frugal doesn’t have be so much about pinching pennies as about doing things that help you focus on the positives.
2009 is coming to an end. Despite the ups and downs for all of us, it has been a reflective time for many people and maybe even provided you a chance to reflect on some priorities other than money. We hope you make the most of 2010 and find some great ways to “live big”!