Achieving Your Goals Is More Important Than Investment Performance

William Miller |

In the early stages of my financial planning process, I want to start understanding the individual(s) goals. Their goals are the most important topics we will discuss and if I could help them with those goals, nothing else would matter.

Some common goals that I hear are:

  • Getting out of debt
  • Buying a home
  • Wanting to start a family
  • Starting a business
  • Being able to retire
  • Taking care of the kids

What I do not hear:

 

  • Making 15% in my account
  • Outpacing the S&P 500
  • Beating a benchmark

The foundation of why we are planning is your goals, it is not to make x% in the market. While investment performance is important because it will help to accumulate the assets you need to reach your goals, it is not what should be measured. You should be measuring the progress you made towards your goals.

 

*This content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information provided is not written or intended as tax, legal, or investment advice and may not be relied on for purposes of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Individuals are encouraged to seek advice from their accountant, financial planner, and counsel. Neither the information presented, nor any opinion expressed constitutes a representation by WM Wealth Planning as a specific recommendation to the purchase or sale of any securities/investment. Asset allocation and diversification do not ensure a profit or protect against loss in declining markets. This material was developed and produced by WM Wealth Planning for educational purposes*