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A Guide to Financial Fitness
By Rhonda Coblentz
Part one of a four-part series on your financial fitness.
Imagine if you were as healthy and fit as…well, say, that guy you saw in the gym. You know, the one with the six-pack abs and the tan. Or that woman running on the beach. Sure, she was probably over 50, but she had the body of a woman half her age. Healthy, strong…she probably sleeps great at night.
What’s her secret? How did he get started? More importantly, where do I begin in my own journey to fitness?
A few quick answers come to mind (and remember, there are never quick solutions):
1) Start with a complete medical check-up;
2) Ask an expert—a trainer or coach—and come up with a fitness plan; and
3) Take the first step. Overcome apathy. Before I started training for my first marathon, I couldn’t seem to get in shape. Any runner will tell you that the first step is always the hardest. It’s a journey, and the only reasonable thing to do is begin where you are. Who knows? You, too, might run a marathon someday but today just put on the shoes and walk out the door.
As long as your imagination is working, let’s imagine something new. What if your finances were as healthy and fit as…well, say, enough to relax about the future. To have the confidence that you’ve planned well and covered contingencies.
Budget. Check. Savings. Check. Retirement. Check. Life and disability income insurance, a will…and dare we mention…a lasting legacy. Check, check, check, and check. Ahhhh.
If you’ve weathered the recent economic storms, that bit of imagination might be a stretch. But with calculated planning and the help of a professional, you can easily take the first steps toward financial fitness.
Step 1: The check-up. What shape are you in?
A complete physical means reviewing your health history, running tests, and letting the doctor take a closer look. As a financial representative with the Principal Financial Group® and a solid background as a Realtor® and mortgage broker, I approach each client with the same perspective. I take a holistic approach in developing a strong strategy. Planning your life is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Many people are financially ill today, so I examine all the pieces and work on a proper analysis and financial fitness strategy.
This process isn’t only about the numbers, although the numbers are important. I ask my clients the deeper questions. What makes you come alive? What is your biggest financial fear? What might help you to get out of a rut? I get to know you and your values before we come up with a strategy.
Step 2: The strategy. Here’s where coaching becomes important.
Once I understand your personal values and assess the numbers, then we define your financial fitness strategy. We’ll evaluate your goals and fine-tune to help you reach those goals. We’ll look at ways to save and smarter ways to invest. But coaching along the way is critical.
Economic news headlines can be sensational, but working with a professional can help you keep your sanity. Markets rise and fall even in the best of times. Staying in touch with my clients helps them manage emotions through market flux. I help them stay on track, just like my running coach helped me prepare for the marathon.
Step 3: The first step towards financial security.
Insanity is repeating the same things yet expecting different results. “Where do I begin?” is the question nearly everyone faces when starting a fitness plan. It’s time to do something new. It’s time to take the first step toward financial health. Why not align yourself with a professional who can train, encourage, strategize, and coach you toward financial fitness and success? Just imagine…financial fitness. Now that’s something everyone can live with.
What are you waiting for? Call me for coffee, and we’ll take the first step together. Let’s run strong.
As a Financial Representative and Registered Representative with the Principal Financial Group®, Rhonda Coblentz works with individuals and business owners in the planning and execution of the steps to help achieve their unique financial goals. With a background in the real estate and mortgage industries Rhonda offers a well-rounded approach to her business. Rhonda acts as a resource for her clientele, who benefit from the firm’s 130-plus years in the industry. The Principal® offers financial products and services, including 401(k) plans, IRAs, mutual funds, investments, insurance, and banking services . Contact Rhonda at 941-504-9010 #6531082011
Insurance products from the Principal Financial Group® are issued by Principal National Life Insurance Company (except in New York) and Principal Life Insurance Company. Securities offered through Princor Financial Services Corporation, 800/247-1737, member SIPC. Principal National and Principal Life, and Princor® are members of the Principal Financial Group®, Des Moines, IA 50392. Rhonda Coblentz, Principal National and Principal Life Financial Representative, Princor Registered Representative. #6474082011
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