The following list of 10 Key Questions comes from the CFP® Board’s website:  letsmakeaplan.org Melissa Myers, CFP® professional in Spring Lake, Michigan shares her answers below: 1. What experience do you have? I began my career in 2000.  As of July 2022 I have over 22 years experience serving clients.  My approach from the beginning centered around planning.  Providing strategies for the long … Read More

I grew up with a pool. We lived in the country where the summers were long and hot.  Lucky for my sisters and me, our parents installed an above ground pool. My mom taught swimming lessons; and I have many great memories of swimming and playing in the pool with my sisters, neighbors, and cousins. The pool was a great way to keep … Read More

For those of you wondering what a BHAG is, it stands for Big Hairy Audacious Goal. What is your Big Hairy Audacious Goal? In my opinion, if it doesn’t both excite you and scare you, it isn’t a BHAG! Dream Big Setting goals is a big part of what motivates me to do the things that I do on a … Read More

Does the thought of going to the grocery store conjure up negative emotions for you?  Do you experience anxiety, depression or procrastinate the task?  If you are like me, you don’t enjoy grocery shopping.  You wait in line.  You self-checkout.  You navigate the parking lot.  You get stuck in traffic on the way home.  You lug the bags inside.  You put everything away.  Then … Read More

 With 16 years of financial planning experience, I’ve learned that financial planning isn’t for everyone.  Financial planning is a process.  The process requires the right mindset, commitment, realistic goals, and realistic expectations.  Here are 7 reasons why financial planning won’t work and how to make financial planning work for you. You aren’t really that interested in having a financial plan … Read More

Have you ever asked, “Where do I start?” When it comes to personal finance the answer is, “Start with figuring out where your money goes.” What are your fixed expenses?  What are your variable expenses?   Are your variable expenses essential or discretionary?  What can you live without and what is non-negotiable?  Why should you start answering these questions?  You are … Read More