Can I be honest with you? Most people don't like talking about money. Whether that's a culture thing, a pride thing, or maybe even a shame thing, that is the truth. Most people do not like to talk about money, savings or their financial situation. It makes them feel uncomfortable. Almost like it's taboo to discuss investments and returns around a diner table.

Financial literacy was not taught in school growing up, and so many of the concepts seem foreign to us.

Does this sound like you?

I was fortunate enough to have grown up in a household where we spoke about money regularly. It was not an untouchable subject, and to this day, I feel comfortable and confident discussing the financial aspects of everything.

I even talk about death, dying and estate planning regularly. I know it's not glamourous, but the cold hard fact is that life will end for all of us someday. So the question becomes, are you and your family ready for it?

In my experience, I have found that the ones who are uncomfortable talking about money, the ones who are uneducated about finances, are the most ill-prepared for retirement. They lack the proper life insurance coverage, their families end up with big tax bills, and there are no wills or power of attorneys in place. All this means is that loved ones end up scrambling trying to tie up loose ends while also dealing with sadness and profound sorrow.

It is my mission to educate people with basic financial literacy skills. I want to empower people to make informed choices regarding their finances. I realize that many youtube videos and books can teach people about money. But do they take into account the province or country of residence? Does it examine the tax law structures specific to you? I don't think a youtube video can tailor an estate plan to your particular situation.

When I cross paths with family members struggling, it breaks my heart because there was no proper retirement plan. I encourage you to talk about money and finances with your loved ones. Ask the hard questions, who will be the executor of the will? How will the estate be divided up? What is the value of the estate? Do you have life insurance to cover funeral expenses? How many bank accounts do you have, and with what banks? Do you have investments, and with who? 

I know it will be uncomfortable, but it's better to address these topics today while you still can instead of the day when you're also dealing with grief, loss and sadness.

This is why you should talk about money; it's crucial. Moreover, knowing some of these answers will make processing profound sorrow more manageable.

If you have questions, get in touch with me. 519.258.1995 or download the FREE eBook that teaches how to build a successful relationship with a Financial Advisor. (CLICK HERE)

I'll talk to you soon.

Alynn