I must admit I was not all-in on Monday’s solar eclipse. I did not purchase eclipse eyewear. I did not create my own eclipse observation tool. In fact, I was in a client meeting during the eclipse instead of outside.
One of the more ear-catching eclipse phrases that stuck in my brain during the eclipse was the “path of totality.” There is almost a slightly sinister undertone to that phrase, but it motivated thousands of people to migrate to a narrow path across our country for the experience of a lifetime.
As I looked at maps illustrating the path of totality neatly painted from Texas to Maine, I could not help but think of the Green Zones that we create for our clients as part of our financial planning process.
Our client Green Zones are far less accurate than the eclipse’s path. We create them to help our clients envision an individualized sustainable long-term financial path toward their personal financial goals.
Applying the descriptor “totality” to our Green Zones is clearly an overstatement, but they do help our clients answer common questions for the future-minded:
- How much do we need to save for retirement?
- When can we retire?
- Am I on track or off track for our goals?
- How does our track change if we _____________?
- How are the financial markets impacting our goals?
Obviously, our clients’ Green Zones are only as accurate as the assumptions we collectively decide to make about their futures. The variables are numerous and — through our firm’s 39 years of experience — we have yet to see a financial plan that unfolds precisely as planned from inception to end.
Unlike the smooth predictable arc of a solar eclipse, your personal path of totality will likely drift as your life is unveiled one day at a time. This isn’t right or wrong, it is simply the result of not being a predictable orbital object.
For those who wish to plan for the next total eclipse, the next path of totality that reaches the United States is scheduled for August 23, 2044. You may be able to make hotel reservations in North Dakota, South Dakota, or Montana soon.
For those who wish to plan for their family’s future, we are happy to create your own personal Green Zone. There is no need to wait until 2044. Our advisors are here to help you as soon as you are ready to create your personal path of totality.
Quote of the week: Jim Rohn: “Discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishments.”
Graphic Credit: Joyce Gitter, Fond du Lac, WI, photo taken in Marion, IL
