No fire, no food.

No drive, no results.

No pain, no pleasure.

True or not, I felt like a nobody growing up. I never felt special or wanted.

As a boy, I was shy and afraid; I had zero confidence.

Then, one day, the light bulb went off. Enough!

I realized that no one was going to do it for me. No one was coming to save me. I had to be the hero of my own story.

ONLY I COULD DO IT. I started telling myself over and over:

I am good.

I am ok.

I will succeed.

I can be more.

I will be more.

With my kids, I am constantly telling them how special they are. I do the same with our clients. And I mean every word of it.

It’s important to me to always assure my clients that “We’ve got them.” I am wholly committed to doing more and being far more than just their financial advisor.

I do this partially because I did not feel that growing up or even when I started my profession.

Since I didn’t get that encouragement and support, I want to make sure they get it from me. And I try to take that attitude everywhere.

I want to be that coach (or the last player on the bench, depending on how you look at me!) that inspires, uplifts, and brings out the best in you.

Most importantly, I want to be that rock for my family, friends, kids, and clients, who know they can always count on me. I can’t think of a better legacy, a better life well-lived.

Help people shine and see how much more this life will shine back on you!

-J.D.