You’ve probably heard stories about people who have incredible wealth yet lead unhappy lives.
Or of others who have very little wealth, yet are happy and content.
We believe that in every person is the desire to live a life of purpose and significance so that when they’re 90 years old and look back on their life, they’ll have no regrets over things they wanted to do but never did, and they’ll feel like they’ve made a difference in their world…however large or small they see their world as being.
We like it to a set of footprints on a sandy beach. The footprints remain long after you’ve gone and serve as a reminder to others that you were there.
For many people, this involves leaving a legacy that’s not necessarily monetary. It could involve:
- Spending quality time with family and friends to create great memories.
- Doing volunteer work.
- Teaching a child or grandchild a skill or talent you may have – playing an instrument, craft or even cooking.
It may also involve using your finances or talents to make a difference at a local, national or even global level.
It’s unique for each person because each person is unique.
Of course we all have goals that are a bit more ‘me’ centred – things like travel, enjoying good health and relationships. But only achieving these goals may not lead to the feeling of leaving something behind. We believe it is possible to combine the two – living a life that’s satisfying and fulfilling as well as leaving behind a footprint that impacts those who come after you. It’s not just about accruing money. It’s about feeling that you did something of value over your lifetime.
Success for us is not just creating a good financial plan. It is helping you design the life you want, so that you’re able to make a difference in your world. If we can help you do that, then we’ve made a difference in our world.
The Starfish Story
One day a man was walking along the beach when he noticed a boy picking something up and gently throwing it into the ocean.
Approaching the boy, he asked,
“What are you doing?”The youth replied, “Throwing starfish back into the ocean. The surf is up and the tide is going out. If I don’t throw them back, they’ll die.”
“Son,” the man said, “don’t you realize there are miles and miles of beach and hundreds of starfish? You can’t make a difference!”After listening politely, the boy bent down, picked up another starfish, and threw it back into the surf.
Then, smiling at the man, he said…”
I made a difference for that one.”
Loren Eisley
