First Things First

When I think of August, I think of “firsts.” Some readers may think of January when firsts are mentioned, but when August rolls around, there are many very special firsts. Granted, most have to do with our kiddos, but they are so memorable!

There’s the first day of school. Whether Pre-K or high school or college, they bring a tear to mom’s eye. August also brings the first day of team practices. Whether drill team, band, or sporting events, I was always thankful to be a girl when my brothers were enduring two-a-day football practices in August.

However, my favorite first is the first day of August--when the annual Postcards Photo Cover Contest begins! If you’ve ever taken a picture you think is really great, NOW is the time to send it in.

Our categories this year are:

The Grand Prize winner and First Prize winner in each category will have their photo published on the cover of one of our editions in 2024 along with receiving other great prizes. You can submit your entries and learn more on our website PostcardsLive.com/contests.

We look forward to seeing your entries!

Until next time,

Submitted by: Brian B Smith, CFP®, Bryan M Masten, CFP® & Riley W. Smith

Is Lifestyle Creep threatening your future?

As the summer winds down and everyone is getting back to a “normal” routine, it is a good time evaluate how you are progressing on your future goals. While planning may seem intimidating, it can be fun if you take the time to envision your future lifestyle. We often refer to this as creating a bucket list. These can be basic lifestyle goals, or the things, places, and people you want to enjoy. It is not about the money as much as it is about the experiences and memories we make along the way.

What are some steps we can take to identify our goals (bucket list) and work toward achieving them?

1. Dream big but be realistic – Your goals should be a stretch to achieve, but don’t make them such a stretch that you get frustrated and stop working toward them. Sometimes it helps to break them up into several small steps to keep you on track.

2. Get on the same page with your partner – While it is ok to have individual goals, you need to be on the same page as your partner. As a team we can design our future lifestyle in a way that we both get what we want individually and as a couple.

3. Pay yourself first – Consider funding your goals as a bill. It is just one of those payments that must be made each and every month. After a few payments you won’t even notice it anymore and your goals will be less difficult to accomplish.

4. Don’t let Lifestyle Creep derail your plans – What is Lifestyle Creep?

It is the increase in lifestyle that takes place as your incomes increase over time. It is easy to let happen, but it can be very detrimental to your future. As incomes increase consider paying yourself more each month – even if it is only a portion of the increase. This will keep Lifestyle Creep at bay and your goals on target.

5. Prioritize your buckets (goals) – Consider your bucket list as having multiple buckets. Maybe a short-term bucket and a long-term bucket. By doing so, you can prioritize which bucket is more important to you. Be careful; don’t let this derail the long-term bucket.

If you will spend some time to design your life, you will likely find success. If you need help, we are here to guide you through the entire process. Give us a call to schedule a time to get started.

Jan Nell

Certi ed Health Coach