When I turned 50 years old, I looked around at my friends and family and I realized that, at this age, some people were looking forward to a retirement with ample savings and income to live comfortably for the rest of their lives. Unfortunately, others were looking at their future and realizing that they would never be able to retire comfortably.

 Although a very simple observation, this had never occurred to me before. And then it occurred to me that this predicament arises from decisions made as a young adult; at about 20 years old.

Then it occurred to me that at 20 years old, most people have no idea what they are going to do with their lives. Well, the reality is that none of us every really know what will happen, but that’s not the point. The point is 20-years-old is the worst time to make decisions and choices for the rest of your life. Heck, it would be easier to decide on a career as a 6 year old, rather than a 20 year old. Most 6 year olds know what they like and don’t like. They have passion and excitement for life. They clearly envision being a police officer, singer or truck driver.  However, at 20 years old, a person is generally in college or working a low wage or entry level job for the main purpose of survival. Most 20 year olds just are not thinking about where they will be financially at 40, 50 and 70 years old.

While all of the decisions we make at 20 years old affect the rest of our lives, the financial decisions we make will determine if and when we can retire. They determine how we will be able to live in the future, what vacations we will take and how well we will be able to provide for our children. Yet, most of us don’t think about all this at 20 years old.

So, when my kids were in their 20’s I thought it would be a good idea to start talking to them about financial choices, decisions and planning that would affect the rest of their lives. As I began drafting a list of topics, I found myself jotting down 30 concepts in a few days. These were relatively simple concepts. Some I had learned through news, friends and family, but most of them were strategies and ideas I came to on my own. And then it occurred to me that these concepts were not available in a simple, understandable or comprehensive format.

Therefore, I ventured into writing a book, which is in process, and bringing these concepts and ideas to other people. Some of the tips are quite simple and can be worked into your everyday life without much effort. Other ideas will take considerable time and effort to implement into your life. But, this is your life and planning and directing your finances is one of the most important parts of your life.

Relationships, health and finances are critical core aspects of life. Making solid and self-driving financial decisions will provide you with the best possible financial landscape as well as will improve all other areas of your life.  

There are definitely some really smart people in this world. I am definitely not one of those super smart people.  Financial shows and technical articles confuse me. I love watching people talk about the stock market but I might as well be watching a foreign movie or a science fiction film.  While these presentations are often very interesting, I usually don’t understand a word they are saying.

There is a lot of great financial advice available and I recommend listening to and reading all you can about finances, especially ideas which will help you and can help improve your financial situation. Unfortunately, when I listen to some of the experts, I feel as if they are in a different world than I am. They sometimes shout orders and tell people exactly what to do. These advisors generally have the same step-by-step directions for everyone.  While they are trying to help people, sometimes they falter to laughing and scolding people who made financial decisions that they disagree with. 

This project does not take that approach. It suggests actions for you to take and provides ideas, but is not intended to dictate specific actions. It does not contain statistics, formulas or directives. It brings to light some new ideas as well as visits some common sense recommendations that we may forget at times.  It suggests that you do some evaluating, contemplating and research to expand your knowledge and understanding of finances and issues important to your life. Only you can make decisions for your financial picture. You need to generate your own solutions and create your own unique financial landscape.

Most people have common sense and the basic ability to understand earning, saving and spending. Most people can learn and implement financial tactics to improve their financial lives. The basic financial principles have not changed over time, but the financial terrain and the battles we face have become more complicated and tricky in modern times. This book presents ideas and stories to help everyone make better financial decisions.

 This project is also intended to spark fresh perspectives, new ideas and new tactics.

Every financial situation can be seen as a financial battle.  We need to show up to the battle armed with knowledge and information and backed with allies who support us. This book will inspire people inspired to think about their finances and financial battles differently.

I hope the many financial ideas and suggestions will help many people and their children better navigate through the modern financial system and obtain the best possible financial outcomes.