This Week’s Blog Is Written By Scott D. Heins, CFP®, IAG Chief Investment Officer
September 3, 2025

Last week I took a couple of days away from the office for some late summer camping and biking.

My goal was to cross four additional state bike trails off my “to bike” list. Thankfully, the weather cooperated, and I was able to cover 106 miles of trails (Oconto River, Fox River, Devil’s River, and Friendship State Trails) in two days.

Each of these trails was unique. Oconto River was a bit of a jungle and felt more like mountain biking at times. Fox River was half asphalt and half gravel. The other two were wide gravel paths that were, quite honestly, a little boring.

While there are physical demands to covering 106 miles in two days, it also requires significant mental fortitude which the trail environment can enhance or deflate. Strangely, I found that one of the largest impacts on maintaining a positive mental attitude was the frequency of mile markers on each trail.

On the northern half of the Fox River Trail there were mile markers every .1 miles. This is not healthy. Instead of enjoying the scenery on the way out, I found myself persistently scanning the trail ahead to see if I could find the next .1-mile marker. I found the rapid rhythm of mile markers too irresistible to ignore, and every mile seemed to take longer than it should. The return trip was no better.

It reminded me of the ever-distracting daily gyrations in the financial markets.

The Devil’s River Trail had mile markers every .25 miles. Stretching the distance between mile markers meant I could not see the next mile marker while passing the current one. However, I found that cadence only slightly more appealing. I saw more scenery, but kept looking for my .25-mile signs of progress.

It reminded me of your monthly investment statements that are factually correct, but lack any context.

The most common distance for trail mile markers was actual miles. I find this spacing to be optimal. I know the next mile marker is four or five minutes into the future, so I can enjoy the scenery in between. It also gives me a mental boost because I get a sense of accomplishment as I pass each one (because there is really nothing to celebrate after going .1 miles).

It reminded me our regularly scheduled client meetings where we review where we are on your trail and make any adjustments as needed.

Then there is the Oconto River Trail which has no mile markers at all and was quite overgrown. I could see where the trail was, but it was covered in weeds and occasionally fallen tree branches. I knew the trail was about seven miles long, but I had no idea I was near the end until the trail suddenly ended at a roundabout.

It reminded me of people who don’t have a long-term plan other than to wander through life.

On your trail through life you get to pick your mile markers. You can choose the .1-mile markers with their mentally draining obsession with where the next marker lies. Or you can choose the 1-mile markers with their freedom to enjoy the scenery with regular progress checks and a sense of accomplishment.

Quote of the week: Jim Rohn: “Discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishments.”

Securities offered through LPL Financial. Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through IAG Wealth Partners, LLC, (IAG) a registered investment advisor and separate entity from LPL Financial.

The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results.

Any opinions are those of IAG and not necessarily those of LPL Financial. Expressions of opinion are as of this date and are subject to change without notice. This information is not intended as a solicitation or an offer to buy or sell any security referred to herein. No strategy assures success or protects against loss. Investing involves risk including loss of principal.

Photo Credit: iStock 2214289592

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