Life Transitions

Transitions can be positive or negative; planned or unexpected.  Some of our biggest financial decisions in life come about as a result of a transition.   A transition can bring uncertainty, vulnerability and some level of loss.  On the positive side, transitions give us a chance to learn about our strengths and to explore what we really want out of life.    

• Sudden wealth could be anything from an inheritance, selling a business, a legal judgement, winning the lottery, or getting that great new job or big promotion you’ve dreamed of.
• Sudden Wealth changes what you can do; and it changes what you no longer have to do. Sudden Wealth changes so many elements of your lifestyle and more.
• Windfalls require a plan of action. How you take advantage of this opportunity is a key element of making a successful transitions. 

• Becoming an empty nester has its own set of challenges. If your life has been focused around your kids, you might be asking yourself; what now?  One phase in life might be over, but a new exciting time is just beginning.
• Remember those years before you had kids – when it was just the two of you? It’s time to rediscover and fall in love all over again with your spouse
• Find purpose in the new normal. Now that you have more time on your hands, you have the opportunity to explore other activities than can give you meaning and purpose.
  

• Giving Money: How do you create a strategy of giving? What organizations do you wish to benefit?  Is there a problem you’re looking to help solve? 
• Volunteer your time/skills could make a huge difference, especially for a small non-profit organization. Volunteering is good for your mind and body.  It allows you to connect with others and can bring fun and fulfillment to your life. 
• You’ve been fortunate in your monetary life; NOW how do you see yourself “giving back”?   Would it be with your time, talents, money, or some combination of the above?

Overcoming challenges and taking advantage of the opportunities are key elements of making successful transitions.  Making successful transitions requires both practical strategies and resilience.