For most people, a conversation about stocks, bonds, index funds, 529 plans, IRA’s, 401K’s, financial planning, etc, is the equivalent of a sleeping pill. For many it’s also a necessary task but not high up there in terms of joy and fulfillment.

That does not have to be the case nor should it be. Inspired Financial Planning is about reaching a higher level of awareness and consciousness around your money and your life. Think for a second about what or who inspires you? What is it that makes the person or object inspiring? Now think about how you feel when you’re inspired. It’s that positive energy you summon that takes financial planning to a whole other level.

It’s in this state of consciousness, when you see infinite possibilities all around you, that financial planning feels practically spiritual. When you feel inspired, you have no doubts, no worries, and no fear. Instead of obstacles ahead, you see opportunities. Instead of seeing scarcity, you see abundance. Instead of feeling disempowered, you feel powerful and empowered.

Living in the Light

There’s no doubt that we’re going through a gloomy and some would say dark period in our country. All the arguing and pettiness in Washington, all the talk about debt, being broke - it’s a real bummer at times. Something we should all remember is that news is all about ratings. And good news stories are ratings losers, bad news stories are ratings winners.

One way to cope with all this doom and gloom is to take ownership of your financial future right now. And the way to begin that process is first to understand that financial planning is not just about investing. On the contrary, financial planning is about designing your life plan. It’s using your imagination as well as your intuition to plan a future you dream about and desire.

I’ll be the first to admit that financial planning takes courage. It’s hard enough to take inventory of your current financial picture, let alone plan for your future. But the alternative of keeping your head in the sand is much more difficult as it increases your anxiety, stress and fear around money.

If you can dream, then you can plan your financial future. Imagine designing a financial life plan that inspires you. Think about the sense of accomplishment and fulfillment you would feel and the peace of mind you will receive knowing your financial house is in order.

So what stops you from living your dream?

Orcas Island sunset photo credit Pat Chiappa