Coming into 2020, many stock market strategists were cautious citing the approaching U.S. presidential election, a re-escalation of trade tensions, and elevated valuations as the primary concerns. Of all the concerns listed, a global pandemic that would shut down the entire economy was not being considered. That said, barring a last-minute selloff, 2020 stock returns are on pace to deliver solid double-digit gains.

If you work at a fast-growing company, there is a good chance that part of your compensation is in the form of restricted stock or options.

After a contentious election season, the fog is starting to lift, and we have a bit more clarity on what to expect in 2021. Despite the chaos and uncertainty surrounding President Trump’s refusal to concede, the market is celebrating the outcome and pricing in a Biden victory with a divided Congress.

COVID-19 has hit many families hard. Here's what you can do to help ease the financial stress you may be feeling as a result.

When it comes to financial planning (and life), we need to develop a healthy relationship with risk. What is risk, and how is it defined? Risk is all about the degree of uncertainty.

The key to building wealth and establishing some version of financial independence is to change your mindset and actions away from being just a consumer of stuff and supplier of labor, and towards being an owner of capital and life on your terms.

While it’s obvious that 1% is better than 0%, what’s not obvious is how 1% effort can turn into massive gains over time!

That said, financial freedom doesn’t mean you’re 100% free. Why? Because financial freedom can’t free you from – jealously, greed, anger, hate, living with a scarce mindset, ego, shame, and other negative thought patterns.

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.