Would You Make the Team?

Commentary June 07, 2012 at 01:29 PM
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In just a few weeks, we'll be rooting on athletes in the 2012 Olympics.

Earning a gold medal in the '76 Games, this time brings back so many memories of what it takes to make the team. Along with solid coaching, I developed strategies across all areas of my life — physical, personal and financial — to make my Olympic dream a reality. I still bring this holistic approach to my goals today and you should too for your clients, your family and most importantly yourself.

As advisors and financial professionals, you are your clients' coaches and often their best examples of financial wellness. Using your insight and experience, you help shape their needs and put them on the path to financial success. I know because I have been working with you across the country for 16 years as a long-term care insurance (LTCI) specialist with Genworth.

Now more than ever, your clients need to understand that their portfolio and their health are pieces of the same pie… their future. With people living longer than ever before, increasing rates of chronic illness and staggering health care costs, you see firsthand the link between physical and financial wellness. They need to be healthy and who better to exemplify this than you?

"Wendy, I'm so busy with my job and my family that I don't have time to tend to myself," many fine advisors tell me. It can be tough to bring the gusto that you have in your financial practice to your physical health. But with just 2 or 3 weeks, you can create healthy habits that can lead to serious change.

Before the London Games, take the challenge with me and other advisors around the country to make the team and become a role model for your clients in more ways than just one. What have you got to lose… there is zero downside risk! Here are 4 easy steps to get you going:

  • Ditch late nights. Start each day refreshed, energized and ready to give the day your all by getting a good night's sleep.
  • Eat well and start at work. Fill up a bowl on your desk with tempting apples, mangoes, kiwi and oranges. You'll reach for them when you need a boost and you'll role model good eating habits to your clients (don't forget to offer them some)! Assorted teas are another welcome aroma in an office that lift everyone's spirits.
  • Stand on two feet. Add just 15 minutes a day of extra movement. Greet your clients at the door when they approach or use a standing computer station for answering emails.
  • Get a coach. You are sought out for your financial expertise, so find someone who can help you in other areas. We all need mentors and fortunately they are everywhere from your local gym to websites, community centers and friends.

Putting yourself on a physical wellness plan will change your financial practice and your own future outlook! You'll be amazed at how much more energy you have for your clients, your family and ultimately yourself. Join with me in making the team, and let me know how you're doing! Until next time, keep on moving!

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