Psychology Archives - The Free Financial Advisor

10 Personality Traits That Indicate You Might Be a Chronic Liar

June 12, 2024 by Toi Williams Leave a Comment

Lying is a common behavior that most people engage in occasionally, but chronic lying is a different matter entirely. It involves a pattern of habitual deception that can damage relationships, erode trust, and create a web of complications in both personal and professional life. Understanding the personality traits that may indicate chronic lying can help you identify and address these behaviors before they lead to more serious consequences. Here are 10 personality traits that suggest you might be a chronic liar and insights into how these traits manifest in daily life.

1. Compulsive Storytelling

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One of the key traits of a chronic liar is the tendency to tell elaborate stories, often embellishing or fabricating details to make themselves look better or more interesting. This compulsive storytelling can be a way to gain attention, admiration, or sympathy from others. Chronic liars may feel the need to constantly create new narratives or exaggerate facts, making it difficult for them to keep track of their own stories. This behavior not only undermines their credibility but also creates a cycle of deception that can be hard to break.

2. Lack of Empathy

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A lack of empathy is often associated with chronic lying, as it allows individuals to lie without considering the impact on others. People who are chronic liars may find it easier to deceive others because they do not fully grasp or care about the emotional consequences of their actions. This trait can lead to a disregard for the feelings and well-being of others, as chronic liars prioritize their own needs and desires over the truth. The absence of empathy makes it easier for them to justify their lies and continue their deceptive behavior.

3. High Manipulativeness

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Chronic liars often possess a high degree of manipulativeness, using lies to control or influence situations and people to their advantage. They may tell different stories to different people, creating confusion and gaining leverage in various situations. This manipulative behavior can lead to a pattern of deceit where the chronic liar constantly seeks to benefit from their lies, whether it’s in personal relationships, work, or social interactions. The ability to manipulate effectively requires a certain level of skill and awareness, which chronic liars often possess.

4. Frequent Contradictions

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Another telltale sign of a chronic liar is the presence of frequent contradictions in their stories and statements. They may forget previous lies or fail to keep their stories straight, leading to inconsistencies that can be easily noticed by others. These contradictions can damage their credibility and make it difficult for others to trust them. Chronic liars often find themselves in situations where they have to cover up one lie with another, creating a tangled web of deception that is hard to maintain.

5. Impulsivity

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Impulsivity is a common trait among chronic liars, as they often tell lies without thinking about the consequences. They may lie spontaneously to get out of trouble, gain a quick advantage, or simply avoid discomfort, without considering the long-term effects of their actions. This impulsive lying can lead to a pattern where lies become a go-to response in challenging situations. Chronic liars may struggle to resist the urge to lie, even when it’s unnecessary or counterproductive, perpetuating a cycle of deception.

6. High Need for Approval

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A strong need for approval and validation from others can drive chronic lying. Individuals who are chronic liars may feel compelled to lie to gain acceptance, admiration, or sympathy. They might fabricate stories to make themselves seem more impressive or relatable to others. This desire for approval can lead them to create a false image of themselves, which they feel obligated to maintain through continued deception. The need for validation makes it difficult for chronic liars to be honest, as they fear that the truth will lead to rejection or disapproval.

7. Difficulty Maintaining Relationships

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Chronic liars often struggle to maintain healthy relationships due to their deceptive behavior. Their constant lying can create a lack of trust and reliability, making it challenging for others to form close bonds with them. Over time, this can lead to isolation and damaged relationships. The difficulty in maintaining relationships is a direct consequence of the lack of trust that chronic lying fosters. People are less likely to invest in a relationship with someone they cannot trust, leading to a cycle of broken relationships and loneliness for the chronic liar.

8. Defensive Behavior

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When confronted about their lies, chronic liars tend to become highly defensive. They may deny, deflect, or become aggressive to avoid admitting the truth. This defensive behavior is a way to protect themselves from the consequences of their lies and maintain their facade. Defensiveness makes it difficult for chronic liars to accept responsibility for their actions or acknowledge their dishonesty. This trait perpetuates their cycle of lying, as they continually seek to avoid accountability and the negative repercussions of their behavior.

9. Low Self-Esteem

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Low self-esteem is often linked to chronic lying, as individuals may use lies to compensate for feelings of inadequacy or inferiority. They might fabricate achievements, experiences, or qualities to create a more favorable image of themselves and boost their self-worth. Chronic liars with low self-esteem may feel that the truth is not good enough and that they need to embellish their reality to gain acceptance and respect. This can lead to a pattern of deception where lying becomes a coping mechanism for their lack of confidence.

10. Habitual Deception

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At the core of chronic lying is habitual deception. Chronic liars often lie out of habit, even in situations where the truth would suffice. This ingrained behavior makes it challenging for them to differentiate between reality and their fabrications. Habitual deception becomes a default response, making it difficult for chronic liars to break free from their pattern of lying. Over time, this behavior can become deeply entrenched, requiring significant effort and support to change.

Breaking the Cycle of Chronic Lying

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Recognizing the traits of chronic lying is the first step toward breaking the cycle of deception. If you identify with any of these traits or suspect that someone you know might be a chronic liar, it’s important to address the issue constructively. Seeking professional help, fostering open communication, and promoting a culture of honesty can help mitigate the negative impacts of chronic lying. By understanding the underlying causes and working towards change, it’s possible to build more trustful and authentic relationships and create a healthier, more honest way of living.

Toi Williams

Toi Williams began her writing career in 2003 as a copywriter and editor and has authored hundreds of articles on numerous topics for a wide variety of companies. During her professional experience in the fields of Finance, Real Estate, and Law, she has obtained a broad understanding of these industries and brings this knowledge to her work as a writer.

The Tell-Tale Signs: Decoding 13 Subtle Behaviors of Expert Liars

May 7, 2024 by Vanessa Bermudez Leave a Comment

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In a world brimming with misinformation and half-truths, understanding the nuanced behaviors of seasoned liars can be a crucial skill.

Whether navigating high-stakes business negotiations, personal relationships, or social interactions, recognizing these subtle cues can help you stay one step ahead.

This article unpacks thirteen less obvious signs that someone might not be entirely truthful, providing you with the tools to decode deceit.

1. The Chameleon Effect

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Expert liars are often social chameleons; they possess the uncanny ability to blend into diverse social settings by mirroring the behaviors, speech patterns, and even body language of those around them.

This adaptability can be disarming, fostering a false sense of camaraderie and trust. Pay attention to how someone might shift their persona depending on their audience.

2. Over-Preparation

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When someone is lying, they may cover their tracks with excessive details. These narratives often sound rehearsed and can overwhelm the listener with unnecessary specifics.

This tactic bolsters the liar’s credibility—watch for stories that feel too polished or answers that come quickly.

3. Strategic Silence

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Conversely, some adept liars use strategic silence to avoid lying outright. They may pause unusually long before responding or divert questions to steer the conversation away from sensitive topics.

This type of evasion is a red flag, especially in responses to straightforward questions where honesty typically requires no such hesitation.

4. Emotional Masking

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Expert liars can mask their real emotions with practiced ease. They might display emotions that don’t match the context of the conversation, or their emotional responses might seem delayed as if they’re an afterthought. Genuine emotions are typically spontaneous and appropriate to the situation.

5. Minimalist Body Language

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While many believe liars fidget or avoid eye contact, seasoned liars can control their body language to an unnerving degree.

They may become unusually still, minimizing body movements to avoid betraying their deceit. This over-controlled body language can sometimes appear too calm or collected under pressure.

6. Contradictory Cues

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Watch for discrepancies between verbal and non-verbal cues. A liar might say they’re happy while displaying a furrowed brow or clenched fists.

These contradictions between what they say and what their body language shows can be a significant indicator of dishonesty.

7. Touching the Face

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Touching one’s face, especially around the mouth, nose, or ears, can be a subconscious attempt to block deceitful words from being spoken. While not a definitive sign of lying, it can suggest discomfort with the truth when observed alongside other suspicious behaviors.

8. Excessive Rationalization

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Liars often provide more justification for their actions than necessary, offering a litany of reasons why something might be true or false. This over-explanation can be a tactic to convince the listener and themselves of the lie’s validity.

9. Changing the Subject Quickly

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Expert liars are adept at changing the conversation’s direction to avoid lying or revealing too much. They might introduce a new topic abruptly or respond to questions with unrelated answers.

This tactic can derail the flow of conversation and distract from any inconsistencies in their story.

10. Inconsistent Timing

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Inconsistencies in timing, such as mixing up when events occurred or how long something lasted, can be subtle yet telling signs of dishonesty. A clear timeline is often hard to manipulate when fabricating stories.

11. Avoiding Direct Statements

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Instead of lying outright, a proficient liar might use ambiguous language or make statements that can be interpreted in various ways. This vagueness is intended to avoid commitment to a lie while still misleading the listener.

12. Overcompensating

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Sometimes, to seem truthful, liars will go to great lengths to appear overly honest or open. This might include volunteering too much information or insisting on their honesty without being prompted, which can seem overly defensive.

13. Frequent Position Shifting

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Physical discomfort can manifest as frequent changes in posture or position. If someone seems unable to sit still, constantly adjusting their seating or standing position, it might be a sign of the mental strain of keeping up a lie.

Uncover the Truth Beneath the Lies

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Recognizing these subtle behaviors can help you navigate complex social interactions more efficiently. While no single behavior is definitive proof of deceit, a pattern of these signs can suggest that you might not be getting the whole truth.

Keep your observations in context, and remember that the art of lying is as complex as it is fascinating.

9 Reasons Baby Boomers Are Healthier Than Other Generations

Vanessa Bermudez

Vanessa Bermudez is a content writer with over eight years of experience crafting compelling content across a diverse range of niches. Throughout her career, she has tackled an array of subjects, from technology and finance to entertainment and lifestyle. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two kids. She’s also a proud fur mom to four gentle giant dogs.

15 Social Situations Extroverts Absolutely Dread (and How to Avoid Them)

March 7, 2024 by Tamila McDonald Leave a Comment

Extrovert Intro

Navigating the social landscape can be surprisingly challenging for extroverts, who typically thrive on interaction and connection. Contrary to popular belief, there are specific scenarios that can leave even the most outgoing individuals feeling out of their element.

From the nuanced complexities of small talk with strangers to the unexpectedly overwhelming nature of large family gatherings, extroverts face their own set of social challenges. Understanding these unique situations is key to maintaining their social prowess and ensuring every interaction is as rewarding and fulfilling as possible.

1. Small Talk with Strangers

Small Talk with Strangers

Small talk can feel superficial to extroverts who prefer deeper connections. Engaging in generic conversations about the weather or mundane daily tasks often leaves them craving more substantial interactions. To overcome this, extroverts can redirect the conversation to more meaningful topics or share personal stories to create a deeper bond quickly.

In situations where small talk is unavoidable, extroverts can prepare a set of interesting questions in advance. This strategy can transform a potentially dull interaction into an opportunity to learn something new or find common ground, making the conversation more engaging and worthwhile.

2. Networking Events with No Clear Agenda

Networking Events with No Clear Agenda

Networking events can be chaotic and overwhelming for extroverts, especially when they lack a specific focus. Without a clear objective, these gatherings can feel aimless and unproductive, leaving extroverts feeling unsatisfied. To navigate these events, extroverts should establish personal goals, like connecting with people in a specific industry or learning about new opportunities.

Having a plan also involves identifying key individuals they want to meet and preparing topics for conversation. This preparation helps extroverts create meaningful interactions, turning a potentially disorganized event into a valuable networking opportunity.

3. Extended Family Gatherings

Extended Family Gatherings

Family gatherings, particularly large ones, can be a source of stress for extroverts. The expectation to socialize with everyone and maintain a cheerful demeanor throughout can be exhausting. In these settings, finding a comfortable pace for interaction is crucial. Engaging in smaller group conversations or spending quality time with a few family members can make the experience more enjoyable.

It’s also helpful for extroverts to take short breaks during these gatherings. Stepping away for a moment of solitude allows them to recharge and return to the festivities with renewed energy and enthusiasm.

4. Surprise Parties

Surprise Parties

While extroverts generally love social events, surprise parties can catch them off-guard, leaving them feeling unsettled and unprepared. The shock of an unexpected gathering can momentarily throw them off balance. To manage such surprises, extroverts can focus on the positive aspects of the event, like the effort put in by friends and the joy of being surrounded by loved ones.

Embracing the unexpected and going with the flow can turn a surprise party from a potential stressor into an enjoyable and memorable experience. Remembering that the event was planned with good intentions helps maintain a positive outlook.

5. Forced Team-Building Activities

Forced Team-Building Activities

Mandatory team-building activities, especially those that feel artificial, can be frustrating for extroverts. These events can lack the spontaneity and genuine connection that extroverts thrive on. To make the most of these situations, extroverts can focus on building authentic relationships with teammates. Finding common interests or shared experiences can help turn a contrived activity into an opportunity for real connection.

Another approach is to take the lead in these activities, steering them in a direction that feels more natural and engaging. By doing so, extroverts can infuse their enthusiasm into the event, making it more enjoyable for themselves and others.

6. Public Speaking with Inadequate Preparation

Public Speaking with Inadequate Preparation

Public speaking can be nerve-wracking for extroverts, especially when they feel underprepared. While comfortable in social situations, the formal nature of public speaking and the pressure to deliver a coherent message can be daunting. Adequate preparation is key. Extroverts should take time to thoroughly understand their topic and anticipate potential questions from the audience.

Practicing the speech multiple times, either alone or in front of a trusted friend or family member, can build confidence. Being well-prepared allows extroverts to transform their natural communicative flair into effective public speaking.

7. Socializing in Loud, Crowded Places

Socializing in Loud Crowds

Loud environments, such as busy bars or clubs, can be overwhelming for extroverts. The noise makes it difficult to engage in meaningful conversations, which are the type of interactions that extroverts find most fulfilling. In such settings, extroverts should seek quieter corners or less crowded times to visit these venues. This way, they can enjoy socializing without the strain of shouting over the noise.

Alternatively, suggesting a change of venue to a more intimate setting can be beneficial. Places that foster conversation, like cozy cafes or quiet parks, can be more conducive to the type of social interaction that extroverts crave.

8. Being the Center of Attention in Large Groups

Center of Attention in Large Groups

Ironically, extroverts can feel uncomfortable when they become the sole focus in large groups. The pressure to entertain or engage everyone can be intense. In such situations, sharing the spotlight can alleviate the pressure. Involving others in the conversation or activity helps distribute the attention and creates a more balanced dynamic.

Another approach is to redirect the focus to a group activity. This can shift the attention from the individual to the collective, making the situation more comfortable for the extrovert.

9. Attending Events Without a Known Companion

Attending Events Without a Known Companion

Going to events alone can be intimidating for extroverts, who usually prefer having a familiar face around. Planning ahead is crucial in these situations. Reaching out to the host or other attendees beforehand can help extroverts identify people they may want to connect with during the event.

If advance networking isn’t possible, extroverts can embrace the opportunity to make new connections. Approaching the event with an open mind and a friendly demeanor can lead to unexpected and rewarding social interactions.

10. Dealing with Conflict in Group Settings

Dealing with Conflict in Group Settings

Conflict in social settings can be particularly challenging for extroverts, who often prefer harmony in group dynamics. Approaching conflict with a problem-solving mindset can help resolve issues constructively. Listening to different perspectives and facilitating a respectful dialogue can turn a potential conflict into an opportunity for growth and understanding.

In situations where conflict cannot be avoided, extroverts should strive to remain calm and composed. Maintaining a positive and constructive attitude can help de-escalate the situation and lead to a more amicable resolution.

11. Participating in Highly Competitive Situations

Participating in Highly Competitive Situations

While extroverts may enjoy competition, overly aggressive or high-stakes competitive environments can be off-putting. In such situations, focusing on personal achievements and team collaboration, rather than solely on winning, can make the experience more enjoyable. Celebrating small victories and supporting teammates can create a positive competitive atmosphere.

Another strategy is to choose competitive activities that align with the extrovert’s interests and skills. Engaging in competitions that feel meaningful and enjoyable can transform a stressful situation into an invigorating challenge.

12. Interacting with Highly Introverted Individuals

Interacting with Highly Introverted Individuals

Interacting with introverts can be challenging for extroverts, particularly when the introvert is reserved or less responsive. Patience and understanding are key. Giving introverts space and time to open up at their own pace can lead to more meaningful interactions.

Asking open-ended questions that encourage introverts to share their thoughts can also be helpful. Respecting their need for quiet and reflection can enhance the quality of the interaction, making it more rewarding for both parties.

13. Being in Situations Where Listening Is More Important Than Talking

Being in Situations Where Listening Is More Important Than Talking

Situations that require active listening over speaking can be difficult for extroverts, who often express themselves through conversation. Practicing active listening skills, such as maintaining eye contact and responding empathetically, can enhance their ability to engage in these settings.

Viewing these situations as learning opportunities can also be beneficial. By focusing on understanding the speaker’s perspective, extroverts can gain new insights and deepen their relationships.

14. Engaging in Activities with Little Social Interaction

Activities that involve solitude or limited social interaction can be challenging for extroverts. Balancing these activities with social engagements can help maintain their energy levels. Pursuing solitary activities that align with their interests can also make these experiences more enjoyable.

Incorporating social elements into solitary activities, such as discussing a book they are reading with friends, can provide the social stimulation that extroverts crave while still engaging in individual pursuits.

15. Navigating Through Slow-Paced Social Events

Slow-paced events can feel tedious to extroverts, who often prefer dynamic and interactive environments. Engaging in stimulating conversations or suggesting group activities can infuse energy into these events. Being proactive in creating engaging interactions can turn a slow event into a more enjoyable experience.

Seeking out like-minded individuals who share their desire for more lively interactions can also help extroverts find enjoyment in slower-paced settings. Forming connections based on shared interests can make the event more engaging and fulfilling.

Adopting Strategies

Extroverts, known for their social prowess, can find certain situations challenging. By adopting strategies to manage these scenarios, they can enjoy a wide range of social experiences while staying true to their extroverted nature.

Are you an extrovert who has some additional tips on navigating diverse social situations? If so, please tell us more in the comments.

Tamila McDonald

Tamila McDonald is a U.S. Army veteran with 20 years of service, including five years as a military financial advisor. After retiring from the Army, she spent eight years as an AFCPE-certified personal financial advisor for wounded warriors and their families. Now she writes about personal finance and benefits programs for numerous financial websites.

How Colors Affect Your Investment Decisions

October 16, 2023 by Jacob Sensiba 55 Comments

When I was a new advisor, one area I failed to understand was the importance of color. We are, at our heart, 90% subconscious beings. Sure, we have thoughts, but while we’re deciding which ice cream to eat, our automatic mind is handling the so-much-more trivial tasks of (among many, many others) breathing and sensory response. Those who are able to reach those subconscious portions of us are more likely to sell us on pursuing whatever it is they’re selling.

I was in the business of selling you on your goals. Better yet, I was in the business of selling you on the fact that you’d rather pay me to handle as much of your money as possible.

I wasn’t selling actual products, I was selling the concepts of trust, commitment, and richness. These concepts can be expressed in colors.

Colors Affect Decision Making

The use of color in sales isn’t limited to investment advisors. On the contrary, most advisors have little understanding of the importance of the subconscious on a client’s decision to say “yes” or “no” to a strategy. Yet there’s tons of research available, from color’s role in shopping to fruit-buying, and even clean energy and cleaning supplies.

Marketers understand the role of color. So should you.

Brief overview of colors

Most of the colors below have two different associations, that depend on your experience and temperament

Red – Danger, power, and strength. On the other side of the coin, passion, desire, and love are also associated with this color.
Green – Growth and harmony. Common associations include tranquility and a sense of calm.
Blue – Trust, peace, compassion, and warmth. Can also emit feelings of sadness and cold.
Brown – Dependability and resilience. Users of brown are typically more reserved.
Orange – Joy, enthusiasm, and attraction are common associations. Orange is also used to call attention.
Purple – Mysterious, wealthy, and soothing (to some).
Yellow – Aggressive, energetic, and cheerful.
Black – Power, aggressiveness, and sadness.
White – Purity, bland, and cold.

Effective Colors

If I had meetings with potential new clients, I’d choose royal blue ties. Royal blue suggests security and trust. My goal with new clients was to be the guy they could hand money over to manage. Imagine that you were meeting with an advisor that you’d never previously met. Would you trust a guy wearing red?

In later meetings, when we’d talk about investing, I’d switch colors to green. Hunter green especially is a wealthy color. This was most effective with clients who seemed to be in love with the pursuit of money. If I projected wealthy colors, they were more likely to accept my counsel and allow me to manage more of their assets inside my firm. Even so, if I wore green to meetings where we were signing contracts, it symbolized that these were going to be big money-making investments.

Avoid These Colors

I owned a kick-ass yellow tie. Besides being the color of caution, my blondish hair created a pale, washed outlook. It seemed like I might be sick. This unsteady, youthful, and pale look decreased sales.

Red was a color I played games with. I had a red marker on my dry erase board. When I was disproving something other advisors had told my client, or I was recommending areas we wanted to avoid, I purposefully used red. I switched to blue or green markers to illustrate my own strategies.

What Does This Have To Do With You?

Colors affect all of your buying decisions. If an advisor is recommending a change in your strategy, be aware of her choice of colors when making an argument. When you’re handed a prospectus for a product, look at the colors they choose. When you go to a financial company website, avoid the urge to choose based on the color pattern.

Let’s look at a few examples:

Fidelity.com: Bright, fresh green. The only orange is the “choose an account button.” Orange is a “call to action” color. Blue is only used in the words “See how Fidelity can help.” Remember what I said about trust? These colors aren’t accidents.

Vanguard.com: Red all over the place. At first blush, this seems like a mistake, but think about what Vanguard sells. They sell at a lower cost and the fact that you’re probably paying too much if you’re looking somewhere else. Even the keyword on the side, “Vanguarding” suggests stopping to think. Red increases your heart rate, gets you excited, and creates energy. Red is the perfect color for what Vanguard sells.

Scottrade: An interesting choice….purple. This isn’t a bad move either. First, it’s different from the others, but purple is a calm, soothing color. As a slightly smaller broker, Scottrade’s job is to get you to think of them as a steady ship (often I was surprised that many of my clients had never heard of Scottrade).

TDAmeritrade: Check out all the green.

Ameriprise: Tons of royal blue. Why? This is an advisor-driven company, so they’re not going to sell red. They’re selling a trusted relationship.

E-Trade: Their site is too busy. Lots of green, some blue, and a little purple all make sense. The black across the top is interesting. Black is a power color. I used it during what we’d call “come to Jesus” meetings (I don’t mean to be offensive – that’s the term every office I ever worked in called it when clients needed to either be given the boot or get on board). However, it’s also an impulse shopping color, so maybe E-Trade thinks they have to get people while the impulse is on.

Charles Schwab: Blue, with a big lime button in the middle “get guidance” button and an orange “open an account” button at the top.

The Most Important Point To Remember

Colors are used against you all the time. To stay in control of your money, use colors defensively. Or, when you’re up for your next raise, use colors against your boss!

For more on financial advisors and how to pick the right one check out these great articles.

When I Was a New Financial Advisor
What is the Role of a Financial Advisor?
Afraid To Meet With a Financial Advisor? Here’s How the First Meeting Goes

Photo credit: wazimu0.

Jacob Sensiba

My name is Jacob Sensiba and I am a Financial Advisor. My areas of expertise include, but are not limited to, retirement planning, budgets, and wealth management. Please feel free to contact me at: jacob@crgfinancialservices.com

www.crgfinancialservices.com/

How to Set Investing Goals

December 15, 2021 by Jacob Sensiba Leave a Comment

Saving money for the future is important, but I believe it’s even more important to invest that money and make it work for you. With that said, you can’t just start investing. You need to lay some groundwork first, you need to have goals in mind, and you have to be intentional so that when things get difficult, you stick with the plan instead of abandoning it during the discomfort. Today, we’re going to talk about how to set investing goals.

What kind of goals are there?

There are typically three-goal time horizons: short-term, medium-term, and long-term. A short-term goal is something you plan on achieving in 2-10 years. Saving for a down payment is a pretty common goal that fits into that window. A medium-term goal is 10-20 years. Saving for educational expenses for a child fits into that window. A long-term goal is retirement or anything else that’s 20+ years down the road.

These time windows are my opinion, though I think they’re pretty close to conventional opinion. Also, there are more goals than the ones I listed above.

How to think through your goal-setting

There are three things to keep in mind when you set investing goals (not to mention figuring out the goal itself). How much time do you have? Is this a short-term, medium-term, or long-term goal? Do you have time to take some risks or do you have to play it safe?

Speaking of risk…what are you comfortable with? Usually, this goes hand in hand with how much time you have. A short-term goal like saving for a down payment will need to be invested conservatively, if at all. In this scenario, you’ll have a set price you’re saving for so you can’t take a chance that the market dips and your savings fall below what you need it to be at.

Conversely, when you’re saving for retirement, you’ll have an opportunity to be more aggressive (at least in the beginning) because you have time to make back the money that you’ve potentially lost.

The last part of positioning your portfolio according to your goals is your comfort level/investor psychology. Time horizon and risk tolerance are small factors here, but it’s more about how volatility affects your mind. If the market drops and you’re panicked, maybe you need to be more conservative.

How to invest based on your goals

Here are some thoughts on how to invest based on your goals. If you’re saving for a short-term goal, like a down payment, I wouldn’t even invest it. UNLESS you’re very confident and you’re an expert in the particular field (though that applies to all of the time horizons).

If you’re saving for a medium-term goal, like saving for college, here’s what I’d do. You can be a little aggressive in the beginning because you have time to earn some money back. As you get closer to the end of your window, you’ll need to be more cautious. Maybe start 50/50 (stocks/bonds) and as you get closer, either get out of the market entirely or something like 10/90 or 20/80.

For your long-term goal, you’re able to be more aggressive for a longer period of time. 90/10, 80/20, 70/30, 60/40 all work great here. It depends on what you’re comfortable with. Same as the last one, as you get closer to the end of your window, you need to shift your allocation to be more conservative.

Keep in mind, these are blanket recommendations. I don’t know your situation, so you need to talk to a professional first before you set investing goals and make investment decisions.

Disclaimer:

**Securities offered through Securities America, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services offered through Securities America Advisors, Inc. Securities America and its representatives do not provide tax or legal advice; therefore, it is important to coordinate with your tax or legal advisor regarding your specific situation. Please see the website for full disclosures: www.crgfinancialservices.com

Jacob Sensiba

www.crgfinancialservices.com/

Here Is What To Do If You Have Debt In Arrears

October 25, 2021 by Jacob Sensiba Leave a Comment

This article is a response to a reader’s question about paying off debt on an irregular income. They write:

Can you advise me how to manage to settle my absa loan & credit card because they are in arrears

At my work I earn with commission , sometimes I didn’t earn.

Here is my answer:

Being in debt is a challenge. It takes away money you could use for more productive things. It’s even more difficult when you’ve missed payments and your debt is now in collections. If that’s you, here are some tips to help you settle your debt that’s in arrears.

Pay down debt

Utilize some debt repayment strategies.

Debt snowball – pay your smallest balance first while making minimum payments to your other debts. When you pay off your smallest balance, move on to the next smallest balance. As you get rid of debts, you’ll be able to make larger payments to the following debt.

Debt avalanche – pay your highest interest rate first. Similar strategy as the “snowball”. Once your highest interest rate debt is eliminated, pay as much as you can towards the debt with the next highest interest rate.

Use retirement funds to pay off your debt. You’ll likely, depending on your age, pay a 10% tax penalty, however (if you’re under 59 1/2). Do you have any cash accumulated in a whole life insurance policy? Use that cash value to pay off your debts

Negotiate

How much, in terms of dollars, can you pay to your creditors as a settlement? Figure out what that number is before you start contacting creditors.

It may take a couple of phone calls, so don’t get discouraged. If you don’t like what you’re hearing from the representative you’re talking to, try and get a hold of a different one. Remember the dollar amount you can pay and don’t go over that amount. If you can pay 50% of what you owe, start with an offer to pay 30%. The creditor will counteroffer and hopefully, the agreed amount is 50% or lower.

Make sure you’re clearly communicating the financial hardship you’re experiencing that put you behind on your debts. Getting sympathy from a representative could help you! Get any settlement or repayment plan in writing as soon as possible.

Make sure you’re speaking to your creditors, not collections agencies. Collections agencies will take a settlement amount and sell whatever is left to another agency. Before you’ll know it, they’ll be after you again. Speak to the creditor you initially owed. Also, be prepared to pay taxes on the forgiven amount.

Bankruptcy

Nobody likes to think about it and it would be a very difficult decision, but it might be one to strongly consider if you want to settle your debt.

If you don’t have luck with negotiations, you might have to consider bankruptcy. There are generally two options – Chapter 7 and Chapter 13. Chapter 7 clears all of your debts. Chapter 13 is more of a reorganization.

Check credit reports

Clarify with the credit reporting agencies how things were settled. Clean up the report and it could help your score a little. Late payments and charge-offs stay on your credit report for 7 years. Debts in collections stay on your credit report for 180 days.

Debt settlement is about commitment. There are penalties if you miss ONE payment of your agreed-upon settlement, so don’t miss!

One more thing. Know your rights. There are several things collectors can’t do:

They can’t threaten you
They can’t shame you
They can’t force you to repay your debt
They can’t falsify their identity to trick you
They can’t harass you

It’s a tough road, but getting out of debt is paramount for your psyche and your financial success. Utilize strategies to pay down debt. Speak with your creditors about negotiating. If negotiation doesn’t work, consider bankruptcy. Once you settle your debt, review your credit report and dispute errors.

Disclaimer:

Jacob Sensiba

www.crgfinancialservices.com/

Economic Pressures

June 9, 2021 by Jacob Sensiba Leave a Comment

There’s a lot of movement in the economy. Several different news threads and innovations have the ability to change the direction and velocity in which our economy moves. In today’s newsletter, we’re going to talk about some of those economic pressures, what they entail, and what they mean for our economy.

Taxing corporations and the wealthy

A news story recently came out about taxes. More specifically, this news shed light on how the wealthy manipulate the tax code in their favor.

I think the information shared in this story was well known already, or assumed rather, but served as a confirmation. A large number of wealthy individuals aren’t “paying their fair share” in taxes.

This will only add fuel to the fire. The fire I’m talking about is the tax overhaul in the tax code. The Biden administration has said that they want to increase taxes on corporations and wealthy individuals/families.

If they’re successful, it would mean more tax revenue for the federal government, which is a good thing. Is there a chance that the increase in taxes creates a disincentive for those corporations and wealthy individuals?

Perhaps, but I don’t think it’s very likely, broadly speaking. I have only one reason…those corporations and individuals are good at making money, and I believe that will continue.

Government spending

As I said, the change in the tax code will generate more income for the federal government. You may be thinking, “Great! We can reduce the national debt!”

I think that’s very unlikely. That may sound skeptical, and it probably is on some level, but both parties are spenders now. It doesn’t matter if it’s a Republican or a Democrat in the White House, they’re both going to print money to push forward their agenda.

Borrowing costs

I’ve talked about inflation a lot lately, and I promise I’ll tone down after I make this point, but I haven’t explained why runaway inflation is a bad thing.

Now don’t get me wrong, there are advantages (i.e. increased rates on savings accounts), but the disadvantage is higher prices. Households can run into trouble because they can’t afford necessities anymore.

The larger problem, however, is the cost of borrowing. Over the last, almost 15 years, rates have been low. And they’ve stayed low, other than an attempt to increase in 2018.

People and corporations borrowed a lot of money. Some bought things they didn’t need. Others to increase research, development, and innovation. Some people used record amounts of leverage to take part in the wild stock market (as of late).

With that said, the cost of borrowing will go up and the cost to service that debt will go up. The higher rates go, the more money that will be needed to pay for/down the debt. When that happens, less money will be spent on “productive” things.

That can slow growth and negatively impact the economy. That’s why central banks reduce rates in times of negative or low economic growth. It reduces borrowing costs and incentivizes people and companies to spend money instead of saving it.

Labor

The last thing I’ll say that has the ability to tie into the last point is the current labor shortage. There are more jobs available right now than people to take those jobs.

Small businesses, in particular, find it especially difficult to fill vacancies. Couple a labor shortage with a strong push from workers, unions, and government bodies to increase wages, and you get wage inflation.

When wage inflation becomes more prevalent, price inflation (CPI) becomes more likely. If companies have to pay their employees more, they need to account for that increased expenditure somehow. They turn to increase the prices of their products and/or services.

Demand is unlikely to suffer because of higher wages. People are making more money, so they should be able to afford higher prices, right?

Conclusion

If you read back some of my other posts, you’ll see I’m optimistic in select areas of the market, and I’ll stay optimistic in those areas no matter what type of economic pressures the country faces.

With all that I said, I believe there are enough economic pressures to cause a decline in the market and the economy, but there’s no telling when that’ll actually happen.

Disclaimer

Jacob Sensiba

www.crgfinancialservices.com/

How You Can Help Your Brain Heal

February 24, 2021 by Jacob Sensiba 1 Comment

Your brain, my brain, everyone’s brain could sustain damage throughout life. The brain is incredibly resilient and has tremendous healing qualities. We will talk about what happens to a damaged brain and how you can help your brain heal.

My accident

Back in January, I got into an accident. Here’s what happened:

I went ice fishing with my dad. I pulled my car into a snow-covered parking lot. We got done fishing. I attempted to back out and my car was stuck. I pushed from the front and my dad hooked up his ATV to the back of my car, and I put the vehicle in reverse to help it out.

With my pushing and (mostly) my dad’s pulling, we got the car out. Unfortunately, the car didn’t stop rolling. I rushed to get into the car to stop it because I was in a parking lot and I was going to run into another car. As I attempted to get into the rolling car, I slipped and hit my head on the inside of my door.

I stopped the car though.

Aftermath

I definitely got a concussion. I’ve had a few before so I know what they feel like. You’re disoriented. Your equilibrium is off. Your brain is not firing on all cylinders. Sometimes you’re dizzy. Sometimes, it can knock you out cold.

I went to my parents’ house instead of going home because I had my son. I needed someone to watch him while I rested.

The following weeks have been interesting, to say the least. The week after required time off of work. I was dizzy, nauseous, had headaches, and had annoying brain fog.

The headaches and brain fog persisted for weeks to the point where I couldn’t take it anymore and got a CT scan. Thankfully, the scan came back normal, but I still have bad days. It’s going to take time.

While I rest and get better, I found ways to help myself.

Brain injuries

They’re incredibly common. Per the CDC, there are 2.8 million traumatic brain injuries per year. That number, though, is not accurate because the majority of people that experience a brain injury don’t get diagnosed. They don’t seek treatment.

A brain injury can result in physical ailments like brain fog, forgetfulness, trouble with day-to-day activities, and drowsiness. It can also lead to psychological illnesses like anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and mood instability.

Healing the brain

As I mentioned, the brain does an extraordinary job of healing itself. 90% of people that experience a traumatic brain injury recover without any long-term effects.

Here are some other things that I’ve implemented and some things I would like to do to help my mind and my body:

Meditation
Exercise
Eating healthy
Listening to music
Learning something new
Getting enough sleep
Brain stimulating games/activities

Exercise, eating healthy, and getting enough sleep to establish an imperative foundation for healthy living, but also helps tremendously when recovering from a brain injury.

Brain stimulating games, learning something new, and meditation are methods to help create new neural pathways

I believe establishing these practices in my daily life will help my brain in the short-term and the long-term.

What Are The Different Types of Wealth?

September 30, 2020 by Jacob Sensiba Leave a Comment

Most people think “lots of money” when they hear the term wealth. Though that is part of the basket, we’ll call it that today, it’s not the only part of the wealth equation.

There are four different types of wealth: financial, social, time, and health.

In today’s post, we’ll go over each, what they consist of, and what you can do to get more.

Financial

We’ll tackle this one right away; this is The Free FINANCIAL Advisor, after all. Financial wealth is what everyone has in mind when the term wealth is used.

Whether that means investments, savings, disposable income, no debt, what have you. Financial wealth implies that you don’t have to worry about your finances and you can now spend on things that matter to you.

To improve your financial wealth, there are a few things you can do:

Eliminate your debt – Debt costs you money, both in interest and opportunities. Opportunities to invest and/or to free up your time (more on that in a bit).
Invest – stock market, direct lending, real estate, or hard assets (precious metals, art, ect.).
Spend wisely – Keep a budget, review your expenses, and monitor your spending.

In my opinion, financial wealth is the least important of the four types of wealth we’ll discuss here. My explanation is in the “conclusion” section.

Social

There are two ways you can look at Social Wealth. One way is status – your social hierarchy and social class. The other way (and how I look at it) is your connections and relationships.

Unfortunately, social hierarchy is important in today’s society. People higher up in the ranks tend to have better connections and job opportunities. I’m not discounting its importance but underlining how integral good relationships are to your life.

We’re social creatures. We evolved this way. That’s why we care what people think, and that’s why we need to nurture our friendships. Healthy relationships help us live longer, happier lives.

Do you want to improve this? Communicate with people that align with your values. Tell people what they mean to you. If you love your buddy, tell them you love them.

This brings me to the next type of wealth.

Time

We truly do not know when our time will run out, for you or for me. That’s why it’s so incredibly important to make the most of it.

Using your “financial wealth” to free up your time is a great way to “create” more of it. Would rather spend time with your family and not cut the grass? Pay someone to do it for you.

Time is our most precious, yet our most wasted resource. We always think, “maybe tomorrow” or “I’ll do it next week”. Next week might not get here. If it crosses your mind, take action.

I elaborate on this in last week’s reflection

Health

I can’t decide if time or health are the most underappreciated forms of wealth. Time is the most finite of resources, but I feel like health is an afterthought, in most cases.

Your body and your mind have to be a priority. Watch what you eat, take walks, exercise, journal, meditate, speak with a therapist. Whatever you need to do to be mentally and physically healthy, I promise you, it’s worth the time/money/energy.

Conclusion

If I had to rank these types of wealth in order of importance, I’d go time, health, social, and financial. Your rankings may differ, as this is my personal opinion.

Without time, you have nothing. If you have the time, focus on your health and your relationships. If you don’t have either of those, having money doesn’t mean a darn thing.

Where Do I Send My Child to School?

September 9, 2020 by Jacob Sensiba Leave a Comment

At the present moment, we’re figuring out what school to send our three-year-old for K-4 next year. I’ve had a lot to think about and it’s opened my eyes as to what matters to me. It has also given me a chance to evaluate my current living situation and where I want to end up.

This is actually quite frustrating for me, as I made a decision for a school district and a city to live in late last year. It’s why I’m living in Brookfield, WI. Elmbrook School District is the best in the state of Wisconsin right now.

However, after speaking with people (prior students and parents with children in school) and reflecting, I don’t know if Brookfield and Elmbrook School District are the way forward. I have three areas of concern when it comes to the school we choose.

Character development

I read How Children Succeed by Paul Tough, and one of the important themes in the book was character development. Both the impact home has on that development and what school can do to help.

Ideally, I’d like a school that sees the value of improving one’s character. What’s more important than that, though, is how teachers, administration, and peers treat students.

Treatment of students

I need to know that there is a culture of mutual respect between students and teachers, the teachers and faculty have the students’ best interest at heart, mental health is taken seriously, and the possible steps needed to thwart bullying have been taken.

I think all of these points start with culture. I feel like if mental health is taken seriously, respect is earned and given, then bullying might be less of an issue – I have no facts to support this, just an opinion. A culture derived from character, respect, and tolerance, I believe, has the greatest chance of student/teacher success.

Opportunities

Will my son like sports or theater? Chess or music? In the end, I don’t care. My job is not that of influencing what he participates in, it’s supporting his passions. That said, I would like where he goes to school to have broad opportunities available to him, so he is able to pursue those passions are.

Home

There’s no doubt that school is important. It’s where students learn what they need to in order to keep progressing academically. It’s where they develop their personalities and socialize with their peers. However, I believe what we teach at home is more important.

At home, kids learn about manners, right and wrong, and work ethic. As a parent, you have an impact on the early parts of your child’s life and how they develop into young people. Your child’s personality and genetic wiring will be a driving force, but I think we, parents, have at least one hand on the wheel.

Where’s home?

For me to be at my best as a parent, does the living situation make a difference? Do I move again? Do I move to a place where I feel more “at home”? Or is it a matter of viewing things through a positive lens and making the most of what I have?

I really don’t know the answer to that. Currently, as I said, I’m in Brookfield, WI. Good city, great school district. I own a home in Oconomowoc that I’m renting. So right there, he has two options of where he can go to school (that’s without open enrollment – not off the table).

However, I would like to live in close proximity to the school he attends. He can make friends in the neighborhood or in the area that go to the same school as him.

Conclusion

I haven’t decided yet on where my son will attend school. The last step in the process is a tour and a conversation with some of the administration.

In the last year, a lot of my decisions when people are involved have come down to the energy/vibe I get from them, and my gut. Once we tour the school and I speak with some of the faculty, the decision will become easier.

Related reading:

My last reflection

Back to School Money Tips

Jacob Sensiba