Does it seem like everyone, but you, gets an extra boost from the universe? To achieve a lofty goal or to get out of a tough spot, hard work and discipline will take you a long way, but you need a little something extra. Call it luck, the law of attraction, the secret; the people who are the most successful in reaching their goals no doubt get help from the universe. OK, great, but that’s for other people, not me, right? 100% False!

Today is a perfect day. Why? Is it because I’m at a beach resort? Nope, today is a typical day at home. Is it because it’s beautiful outside? Nope, it’s humid and overcast. Is it because I received some good news? Nope, nothing notable happened today. Is it because I won the lottery? Nope, no financial windfall today. So, why is today so perfect? Because I am able to spend time in the areas of my life that bring about a sense of mission, human connection, and personal growth. Let’s explore.

Instant gratification is saying yes to mindless consumption. It’s succumbing to the daily attacks of brand messages and allowing yourself to be manipulated to spend. Delayed gratification is the exact opposite. It’s about being committed to your goals, living in alignment with your values, and imagining all the benefits that come with waiting and prioritizing to build the future version of you.

Money is freedom as it affords you the ability to call the shots on how you use your time – where to go, what to do, and with whom to share it.

Last month I went to social media to announce my goal to run a 50K (31 miles) by the end of May. Well, I’m happy to announce that this past weekend I accomplished my 50K goal and I am now a proud member of the Ultra Marathon community. Running has given me so much over the last two years, and here are the six life lessons running a 50K reinforced for me:

Our “safe” jobs are vulnerable, work hours have been reduced, and anticipated raises and bonuses are in jeopardy. For many of us, our financial situation is as scary as ever. But how did this happen so quickly? How did we go from record consumer spending to the brink of financial ruin in less than two months? How were we so unprepared?

For those struggling financially, the immediate question becomes - What should we be doing now to repair finances or prepare for more bumpy roads ahead?

If you are over five years into your career, on your 2nd or 3rd promotion, and still find yourself asking the question…..”where does all my money go?”, you’re probably a HENRY. That’s right, a HENRY – High Earner Not Rich Yet.

There’s no doubt about it - COVID-19 has taking its toll on everyone physically, mentally and emotionally. Even if you aren't a healthcare professional or other essential worker on the front lines, it’s still difficult to cope with the dramatic change in lifestyle and stress we’re all experiencing.

The stock market is (and has been) the single biggest contributor to wealth over time. Stock returns have outpaced those of cash, bonds, real estate, commodities, and collectibles. It’s not even close. What is a stock, and what does it mean to own a stock?

If you have the discipline and cash flow to save more than half of your income each month to put toward an early retirement, FIRE might work for you.

“In 2019 we’ll see a corporate earnings recession, 2% GDP growth, escalating trade tensions with China, and President Trump will be impeached. Against this backdrop, U.S. stocks will surge over 25%, the Barclays Aggregate Bond Index will return over 8%, and Gold will be up over 15%.”