As we look at 2024 in the rearview mirror, I thought I would share a story of some time I spent with a client last week.

“You’re not like other financial advisors,” she told me.

I perked up, wondering where this was going next.

“Most advisors that give us referrals are like…ugggh,” she said. “But the people you refer to us are so nice and appreciative.”

“Thank you,” I replied. “I like to think of myself as more than just a financial advisor.”

She then said, “Yes, you are more like a therapist meets financial guy meets a Rabbi!”

I laughed, getting a big kick out of that description.

“I do my best!” I said.

You see, in my profession, it’s not just about what you get paid to do.

It’s about what people need. 

It’s what they need to hear and need to say.

Needing that soft approach at times, the firm approach at other moments. And sometimes, they just to be heard.

I think that is true in most professions. But how often have you gone in to buy a service or product only to dread the result. Even if you got what you wanted at the price you wanted, the experience wasn’t there.

So, I try to be better. Every day, I aim to be the person that the individual across the table from me needs.

Listen more. Say less. And always work for the best result.

The reward is worth it.

As we look forward to 2025, let’s all reflect on the experiences we had last year. How those different experiences shaped each day, week, and the year.

Then, let’s take those reflections and decide how those will shape the decisions you choose to make in 2025.

Share those feelings with who matter most. Build on the positive feelings and experiences. Learn from the not-so positive ones and then wash those away immediately.

I promise you, that’s the formula for having your best year ever in 2025!

-J.D.