Simplify for a Better Return on Life

“Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication,” proclaimed an Apple Computer marketing brochure back in 1977. In the ensuing decades, Steve Jobs’ commitment to this ideal resulted in technology products that were as beautiful as they were easy use, and in Apple becoming one of the most valuable companies in the world.

The clutter we accumulate in our lives often prevents us from fully experiencing the adventure and freedom that life offers. At some point, our possessions can become chains, anchoring us and stifling our spirit of adventure. Think about how paring down to the essentials in these four areas could improve your Return on Life (ROL) and fuel your adventurous spirit.

1. Simplify your space.

Imagine your home as a base camp for your next adventure. Surrounding yourself with too much stuff can weigh you down and inhibit your readiness for new experiences.  Surrounding yourself with too much stuff can also have serious effects on your mental and physical health, including stress, depression, lack of focus, and higher risks of household injuries. Cleaning can have the opposite effects, filling you with positive feelings as you open up more physical space for yourself. As you organize things you want to keep and let go of those you don’t, you might feel nostalgia and gratitude for people and experiences that have enriched your life. And giving away items you’ve outgrown will make you feel good about helping someone else as you also make room for the exciting things that will be coming next.  I consider myself pretty simple and not materialistic, but every time I go to do a clean out, I realize just how much I like my stuff.  It is one thing to decide to simplify, but it is much harder work to actually do it.  Just remember that simplifying is not just about reducing; it’s about making space for what truly ignites your passion.

2. Simplify your schedule.

 Your calendar should be a roadmap to adventure, not a to-do list that leaves no room for spontaneity.  Despite your many personal and professional responsibilities, you probably have more control over your days than you realize. With a little forethought, it’s usually possible to make time for exercise, reading, or a quiet cup of coffee, especially if you incorporate some of these activities into your morning or bedtime routine. But if you really can’t find time for a run or a dinner date with your spouse for the ‘big rocks’ in your life, you might need to take a hard look at your whole schedule and reassess your priorities. Are you staying up too late and sleeping in longer than you should? Are you taking more meetings at work than you really need to?  If your schedule is constantly packed and stuck in the fast lane, there will never be space to chase your own great adventure.  Simplifying your schedule can open up opportunities to chase new experiences and explore uncharted territories, both literally and metaphorically.  As you probably know by now, I think having this pursuit is a must.

3. Simplify your thinking.

The running dialogue in your head that’s constantly dredging up regrets about the past and spreading anxiety about the future is robbing you of the present. It can be like fog on your path, obscuring the beautiful vistas ahead.  Incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine to keep yourself focused on what you can and will accomplish today. Try meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises to root your mind and body in the here and now. Keeping a gratitude journal can also help you appreciate all of the good things in your life instead of dwelling on negative thoughts.

4. Simplify your finances.

 What, ultimately, is your money for?  Truly, the only value of money is in its use.  Think of your finances as a toolkit for your explorations.

 Yes, we all have to pay the bills and provide the essentials for our families. But the way we use our money should also be tied to specific, actionable life goals and upcoming transitions. When we don’t earn, spend, save, and invest on purpose, our money tends to scatter across possessions we don’t really need, subscriptions we don’t really use, debt that we could have avoided, and short-term solutions to problems that will continue to linger in the long run. Vacations get skipped, old cars get older and more unreliable. Then, suddenly, your family has outgrown your home but you can’t afford to move, or your kids are looking at colleges you can’t pay for, or you and your spouse are both wishing you had the means to retire.

 When you eliminate what’s not essential, you’ll have more resources to commit to the people, places, and activities that make you truly happy. You can allocate more resources to experiences that bring joy and excitement. Want to have an authentic conversation about these things that really matter?  Schedule an appointment with us and let’s talk about how our Life-Centered Planning process can simplify complex financial issues and keep you and your money organized so you can pursue your own great adventure now.

 

 

Episode 28: The Psychology of Adventure with Matt Walker


Welcome back to The On Adventure Podcast! I’m your host, Josh Self, and today, my conversation is with Matt Walker. Matt is a unique blend of psychologist and adventurer, who has spent nearly 30 years leading expeditions on multiple continents. In this episode, we dive deep into the psychology behind adventure, the importance of doing hard things, and why integrating adventure into our lives is vital. Matt shares his insights on how discomfort can be a powerful tool for growth and how adventure helps us build resilience and find clarity. We also touch on his upcoming webinar that I will be hosting, so stay tuned for that!

Timeline Summary

  • [00:00] – Introduction to Matt Walker, his unique background, and the upcoming webinar on integrating adventure into our lives.
  • [02:07] – Matt talks about his journey into adventure and psychology, and the connection between the two.
  • [05:00] – Discussing the real “why” behind adventure and how it ties into personal and professional growth.
  • [10:12] – Reflecting on the potential disruptions of changing sleep habits.
  • [14:24] – Matt explains the five elements of adventure: High Endeavor, Uncertain Outcome, Total Commitment, Tolerance for Adversity, and Great Companionship.
  • [19:00] – The role of great companionship in meaningful adventures and how solo endeavors still require support.
  • [25:00] – Overcoming fear in mountaineering and how it parallels with facing life’s challenges.
  • [32:00] – The importance of intentionality and purpose in manhood and how adventure helps achieve this.
  • [43:00] – Matt’s personal adventures, including building a house and planning solo ascents of 8,000-meter peaks.
  • [47:00] – Closing remarks and how to connect with Matt Walker for more insights and support.

Links & Resources

Closing Remarks

Thank you for joining us on this episode of The On Adventure Podcast. If you enjoyed our conversation with Matt Walker, please rate, follow, and share the podcast. Your support helps us bring more inspiring content to you. Don’t forget to check out the links and resources mentioned, and as always, pursue your own great adventure!

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Episode 27: Using adventure for self-discovery and feeling fully alive with Scott MacKillop


Welcome back to the On Adventure Podcast! I’m your host, Josh Self, and today I had the pleasure of speaking with Scott MacKillop, a seasoned financial professional and avid outdoorsman. Despite our shared background in finance, our conversation veered away from the boardroom and delved into the thrilling world of outdoor adventures. Scott shared how his passion for the outdoors was self-developed rather than instilled by his parents, and how fear serves as a clarifying force for him, whether on the mountain or in the boardroom.

Throughout our discussion, Scott talked about his extensive career, innovative achievements, and the invaluable lessons he has learned from pushing his limits in nature. From climbing Mount Kilimanjaro to the peaks of Colorado, Scott’s adventures have given him a profound sense of being fully alive, experiencing all emotions and embracing the challenges that come with pushing oneself to the edge. We also explored the significance of self-discovery and the joy of living, which Scott finds in every adventure he undertakes. This episode is packed with inspiration and insights into the intertwining of adventure and personal growth.

Timeline Summary:

  • [00:00] – Introduction to Scott MacKillop and his background in finance and outdoor adventures.
  • [01:00] – Scott’s unique perspective on fear and clarity.
  • [03:00] – Early life and the development of Scott’s love for the outdoors.
  • [06:00] – Memorable outdoor experiences and the influence of his childhood.
  • [14:00] – Transition from DC to Colorado and the role of running in Scott’s life.
  • [20:00] – Facing and overcoming physical and mental challenges in adventure.
  • [27:00] – Scott’s near-death experience during a solo hike in Colorado.
  • [35:00] – The mental aspect of pushing limits and setting goals.
  • [45:00] – Reflecting on past adventures and the continuous pursuit of new challenges.
  • [50:00] – Upcoming adventures and the importance of staying active.

Links & Resources:

 

Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the On Adventure Podcast. If you enjoyed this conversation, please rate, follow, share, and review the podcast. Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories to you. Until next time, keep pushing your limits and pursuing your own great adventures!

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What Does Financial Independence Mean to You?

According to a recent poll of 2,000 U.S. adults, “financial independence” equates to earning $94,000 per year, or about $20,000 more than the median income in 2023.

Some folks might feel like they’re just a promotion or two away from achieving that kind of independence. Others might not feel like $94,000 isn’t enough to feel truly free. And still others might wonder how they’d ever spend that much money in the first place.

 That’s because true financial independence isn’t a number. So if it’s not a number, then what is financial independence?   

It’s feeling confident enough in your money to do things that will improve your Return on Life, such as:

1. Spend without worrying

In our experience, it’s true that money can’t buy happiness. But it’s also true that being able to treat yourself and your family without worrying about paying your credit card bill at the end of the month is a pretty great feeling as well.

No matter how much you’re earning, setting a monthly spending budget can help you cover your necessities, contributes to your retirement goals, and have a little fun along the way. A budget can also help you plan ahead for responsible “big ticket” splurges, like a dream vacation or adding a pool to the backyard.

2. Enrich your children

Unless your kids love spending a lot of time at the local library, enrichment isn’t free. According to Lending Tree, parents spent an average of $731 per child per year on extracurriculars. You might spend thousands of dollars every year on a good athlete or ballerina through their teenage years … which is when the bills really start rolling in. The average cost of a year of college for the 2023-24 school year is $10,662 at an in-state public school, and $42,162 at a private school. This is for tuition ONLY…room and board will be in addition, and if you haven’t noticed, rent cost is much higher now than it used to be!

Parents might not feel truly free until they’ve passed that big COLLEGE goal until the last payment has been made. But with that goal in sight, we can help you start planning a combination of savings and investments that will reduce some of the sticker shock when the time comes. And by including some of your children’s activities in your budgeting and long-term plans, you might be able to sign them up for a few extra classes that round out their development or allow them to dig more deeply into their passions.

3. Change careers

Once upon a time, your high school guidance counselor might have challenged you to imagine what you’d do for a job if you didn’t need money. Setting aside your teenage dreams of being a rock singer or astronaut, do you have the means to make that switch right now?

Well, if money isn’t stopping you, then what is?  Is it time to re-train and re-tool for Career 2.0 or 3.0?

Taking a lower-paying job at a company or charitable organization that does work you admire could give you an opportunity to put your professional skills to their highest uses. Rather than trying to climb a ladder or earn a bigger paycheck, you can focus on the mission at hand and the people and causes you’ll be impacting.

4. Retire

Or maybe you’re feeling independent enough to stop working all together.

Folks who plan their retirement around hitting some arbitrary financial number often put off retirement longer than they need to. Remember, financial independence isn’t a number. 

Seeing how your plan can make your retirement possible while also providing for long-term goals like vacationing or relocating could give you the security you need to feel financially independent. Want to discuss this further?  Reach out to me and let’s start planning to earn more Return on Life (ROL) and more freedom from your money.

Q3 Letter To Clients

Do you ever stop to smell the roses, literally?  As we transition from the vibrant days of spring into the warmth of summer, it’s a wonderful time to pause and reflect on the beauty that surrounds us. Whether it’s the blooming gardens, the long sunny days, or the simple pleasure of an evening walk, I encourage you to take a moment to appreciate the small joys of the season.  These have a way of putting the world’s crazy into perspective, which is necessary if we are going to stay happy, healthy individuals for all our days.

Market Overview

So let’s talk a little ‘crazy’…As we enter the third quarter of 2024, we find ourselves in a financial environment marked by both challenges and opportunities. Year to date, it seems that diversification is missing out on huge gains coming from just a few stocks. Not only have many broad markets delivered gains from acceptable to amazing, but there has also been the usual assortment of sizzling stocks like NVIDIA (NVDA), and tantalizing new products like crypto ETFs to distract us with their dazzle.

Strong market performance is welcome news. But at least in the wider investment world, we’re likely to see a different kind of response that isn’t as welcoming: Instead of fleeing the downturns, restless market players may be tempted to chase after speculative trends, no matter how closely they resemble past Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) frenzies.  There’s almost always something alluring and allegedly unprecedented to fuel our FOMO. But before you go all-in on the most recent high-flyers, remember:

The latest innovations are often very real, remarkable, and potentially game-changing forces in our lives. But the manner in which capital markets absorb these forces and convert them into long-term returns is far more constant.

Which reinforces why our own refrain remains the same whether markets are up or down:

Neither hot nor cold streaks among stocks, sectors, or markets give us good reason to abandon an otherwise well-built portfolio.

Staying the Course

It’s natural to feel anxious during periods of uncertainty, but it’s crucial to remember that our financial plan is designed to withstand these fluctuations. History has shown that markets tend to recover and grow over time, despite periodic downturns. Our diversified approach to investing is intended to mitigate risk and provide a stable foundation for your financial future.

This is why we still advise building and maintaining a low-cost, globally diversified investment portfolio aimed at your personal long-term goals. This, despite the cognitive traps laid by the most recent rounds of FOMO. As Nobel laureate Daniel Kahneman reportedly observed quite bluntly:

“If you think you’re an expert on picking stocks, then you should be fabulously rich. If you’re not, you’re probably not.” — Daniel Kahneman

Controlling What You Can

Now on to the ‘happy and healthy’ part…While we cannot control the markets or political developments, we can control how we respond to them. It’s essential to focus on the aspects of life that are within our power to manage. One such area is aligning our lives with our values and priorities. Living according to what truly matters to you can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment that transcends financial concerns.

One way to foster this alignment is by integrating movement and adventure into your daily routine. Research has consistently shown the profound benefits of physical activity on both physical and mental health. It has become very clear that regular physical activity and engaging in adventurous activities can significantly enhance one’s healthspan—the period of life spent in good health, free from chronic diseases and disabilities.

The Value of Movement and Adventure

Engaging in physical activities, whether it’s trail running, hiking, or simply taking a walk in the park, can have a transformative impact on your overall well-being. Movement not only improves cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles, and boosts energy levels but also reduces stress and enhances mental clarity. Adventure, on the other hand, introduces an element of excitement and novelty that can invigorate the spirit and foster a sense of achievement.

Incorporating movement and adventure into your life doesn’t have to be a grand endeavor. It can be as simple as exploring a new hiking trail, trying a new sport, or setting aside time each day for a brisk walk. The key is to make it a regular part of your routine, allowing it to become a habit that supports your health and happiness.

Embracing Life’s Adventure

Beyond the physical benefits, adventure can also serve as a metaphor for how we approach life’s challenges and opportunities. Embracing adventure means being open to new experiences, taking calculated risks, and stepping out of our comfort zones. It’s about seeing life as a journey filled with possibilities, rather than a series of obstacles to overcome.

As you navigate the complexities of the financial markets and the uncertainties of the world, we encourage you to adopt an adventurous mindset. Approach each day with curiosity and a willingness to explore. Trust in the financial plan we have crafted together, knowing that it is designed to support your long-term goals. And most importantly, prioritize your well-being by staying active and embracing the adventures that life has to offer.

In closing, we want to express our gratitude for your continued trust and partnership.  Let’s make this quarter a time of growth, both financially and personally. Embrace the beauty of the season, stay active, and approach each day with a sense of adventure. By focusing on the aspects of life we can control and maintaining a sense of adventure, we can navigate the uncertainties of the financial world with confidence and resilience. Thank you for allowing us to be part of your journey.