Is Your Wallet Feeling Ghosted? It Might Be Time to Build Your Financial Dream Team!


Hey Reader,

Ever feel like your finances are playing hide-and-seek?

You know they're somewhere in there, but between deciphering insurance codes, keeping up with continuing education, and, you know, actually living, managing your money can feel like trying to herd cats (especially the ones who've just discovered catnip).

You're not alone!

We've all been there, staring blankly at our bank accounts wondering where all the money went (usually that's a task saved for me on weekends), like it eloped with a charming rogue of a tax deduction.

Speaking of busy weekends... I had the absolute pleasure of spending it with Dr. Jess Reynolds, a fellow Jane Ambassador and all-around amazing human from AIM Online Education. We were heads down recording a brand new course for his platform – that's all I can say until it's released – and also re-recorded my beginner and intermediate courses to make them even better for you Reader.

It was such a blast collaborating with Jess. Not only is he incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about what he does, but his energy is infectious. Those hours flew by in a whirlwind of ideas, laughter, and, of course, some serious course creation. It's always inspiring to connect with other professionals who are dedicated to helping healthcare practitioners thrive, both professionally and personally.

That's why this week, after speaking at length during our recordings about developing your power team (those people experts tasked with solving some of our most challenging problems) we're talking about assembling your financial dream team. Because let's face it, nobody can do it all. Trying to be a financial whiz while simultaneously mastering the art of the perfect lumbar roll is just asking for a stress fracture (of the mental kind, of course).

Think of your financial team like the Avengers (I'm going to lose half of the non super hero fans), but instead of saving the world from intergalactic villains, they're saving you from…well, financial villains.

These villains come in many forms:

  • confusing investments,
  • unexpected tax bills, and
  • the ever-present temptation to buy that amazing massage gun you saw on Instagram (no judgment, we've all been there).

So, who are the key players on this dream team?

The Financial Advisor: Your Strategic Commander

Your financial advisor is like Captain America, guiding your financial ship with a steady hand and a well-thought-out plan. They help you define your financial goals, create a roadmap to achieve them, and keep you on track even when things get bumpy (like when you accidentally spend your entire bonus on a spontaneous trip to that silent retreat in the mountains...again, no judgment). They're the ones who will help you understand the difference between a stock and a bond (and why you should probably care), navigate the treacherous waters of retirement planning, and help you make smart investment decisions.

Now, before you go hiring any advisor who promises you a yacht by next Tuesday, remember what we talked about in a previous blog post, Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring a Financial Advisor. Finding the right advisor is like finding the perfect avocado – it takes time, research, and a discerning eye. You need someone who understands your specific needs as a healthcare professional, communicates clearly (no jargon allowed!), and whose values align with yours. Don't be afraid to ask tough questions, check their credentials, and trust your gut.

Remember, this is your financial future we're talking about!

The Accountant: Your Financial Detective

Think of your accountant as the Sherlock Holmes of your finances. That's what Kevin is to me (amongst many other things). They're the ones who can sniff out deductions you didn't even know existed, decipher the mysteries of tax law, and keep you out of trouble with the IRS (or CRA, depending on where you live). They’re your go-to person for all things tax-related, from filing your returns to advising you on tax-efficient strategies. A good accountant can save you a ton of money (and stress) in the long run.

I'm extremely fortunate to have found Kevin years ago and ever grateful for his continued support.

The Attorney: Your Legal Guardian

Your attorney is like the Thor of your financial team, wielding the hammer of legal knowledge to protect your assets and your future. They can help you with everything from estate planning (making sure your hard-earned money goes where you want it to go) to contract negotiations (making sure you're not getting the short end of the stick).

While you might not need an attorney on a daily basis, having one in your corner can be invaluable, especially when dealing with complex legal matters.

Building Your Dream Team: A Few Tips

  • Start with your financial advisor: They can often recommend other trusted professionals, like accountants and attorneys.
  • Do your research: Read reviews, ask for referrals, and interview potential team members.
  • Communicate clearly: Make sure everyone is on the same page and understands your financial goals.
  • Don't be afraid to ask questions: No question is too silly when it comes to your finances. Remember, you're paying these people for their expertise!
  • Regularly review your team: Just like your treatment plans, your financial plan should be reviewed and updated periodically.

Building a financial dream team is an investment in your future. It's about taking control of your finances, reducing stress, and achieving your financial goals. So, ditch the DIY approach and start building your team today.

Your wallet (and your sanity) will thank you for it.


Podcast Spotlight!

Why Your Degree Won't Save You: This episode on the Rockstar Inner Circle podcast dives into the importance of financial literacy, even with a professional degree. It's a must-listen for all healthcare professionals!

Why We Overspend and How to Stop: I had the pleasure of chatting with Linzy Bonham from Money Skills for Therapists and Money Nuts and Bolts about overspending habits and practical strategies to curb them. Tune in for some actionable tips and a few laughs!

P.S. Want to get ahead on your finances? Check out my Adulting 101 & 201 courses here!

Robin Valadares,

@financiallyfulfilledphysio

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Navigating Finances as Healthcare Professional

Tired of trading your time for money? Join me every Sunday and 550+ healthcare professionals, share tips and insights on how I am quitting the rat race by 40 years old. I cover the basics of personal finance distilled into simple and basic steps, that you can use to improve your financial situation and live a more fulfilling life.

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