Dr. Preston Cherry, a finance expert and author, dives into the vital link between money and personal values. He shares insights from his book on achieving financial harmony, emphasizing that happiness can indeed stem from financial well-being. The conversation covers how to redefine retirement as a joyful pursuit, and why adapting financial plans to align with life stages is essential. Dr. Cherry also highlights the profound influence of family on financial attitudes, advocating for a balanced approach to both present enjoyment and future stability.
Aligning financial decisions with personal values is essential for achieving fulfillment and creating meaningful connections with money.
Challenging the belief that 'money can't buy happiness' supports the idea that financial resources can enhance well-being when aligned with life goals.
Deep dives
Understanding Financial Harmony
Aligning life with financial goals is essential for achieving personal fulfillment. The concept of financial harmony, as introduced in the discussion, emphasizes the importance of matching financial decisions with individual values and life aspirations. This approach encourages individuals to reflect on their relationship with money, moving beyond traditional financial advice that often fails to consider personal circumstances. By recognizing that financial harmony is unique to each person, individuals can create a more meaningful connection with their finances, enhancing both their financial and personal well-being.
Challenging Financial Myths
Common platitudes in personal finance often contribute to social stigma and shame, particularly regarding the relationship between money and happiness. The speaker challenges the idea that 'money can't buy happiness,' presenting research that suggests having financial resources can indeed improve well-being when aligned with personal goals. By conducting internal reflection and self-assessment, individuals can better understand their values and how to utilize money to support their happiness. This shift in perspective allows for a healthier approach to financial planning, where emotional well-being becomes a priority alongside financial literacy.
The Importance of Self-Audit
The process of conducting an honest self-audit is a cornerstone of effective financial planning. This involves assessing one’s current financial situation, acknowledging feelings about money, and setting clear personal goals. The method encourages individuals to confront financial difficulties and emotional barriers, ultimately fostering a deeper understanding of their relationship with money. With this clarity, people can align their financial strategies with their life goals, leading to actionable steps toward achieving financial harmony.
Redefining Retirement and Wealth
Retirement should be viewed as a transition from mandatory work to pursuing passions rather than an endpoint of productivity. The notion of being financially retired versus finally retired highlights the need to define personal wealth in terms of fulfilling experiences rather than mere financial security. By acknowledging that quality of life remains crucial, individuals can enjoy both their current lifestyles and their future plans. This perspective encourages individuals to prioritize investments in well-being and self-care, moving beyond traditional narratives about working and saving.
Our guest on the podcast today is Dr. Preston Cherry. Dr. Cherry is the author of a new book called Wealth in the Key of Life: Finding Your Financial Harmony. He’s also founder and president of Concurrent Wealth Management. In addition, he serves as Assistant Professor of Finance and Head of the Personal Financial Planning Program at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, where he also serves as the Director of the Charles Schwab Foundation Center for Financial Wellness. Prior to assuming his current roles, he served in lead and internal financial planning roles in institutional retirement sales. He has also served as co-investment manager at a Registered Investment Advisor and as a mutual fund wholesaler.