“I should get on a budget.”  Ever say that? It’s really an admission that budgeting isn’t easy or fun. (If it were, everyone would be doing it, right?)  So, if you’re one of those who doesn’t have a budget, why bother trying to create and live by one? Because having a firm spending plan—which is …

Budgeting isn’t “Rocket Surgery” Read More »

“Honey!” the mother pleads, looking into her adult daughter’s eyes. “I just want you to be happy. Listen to your heart!”  This line (or one like it) shows up in every sappy Hallmark movie I watch with my wife.  I can’t imagine worse advice to give someone—whether in the area of romance, parenting, career advancement, …

Why Listening to Your Heart is a Bad Idea Read More »

In my 100% polyester, off-white leisure suit with its bell-bottomed pants and extra wide lapels, I thought I was hot stuff. My lime green nylon shirt sported a lion’s head on the back. My ensemble was made complete with platform shoes and a puka shell necklace. Oh, and I should mention my hair—blown dry and …

Falling for Financial Fads? Read More »

No matter why I go see my doctor, he always does a few things first. Whether I’m complaining of cold or flu symptoms, or getting an annual physical, he first listens to my heartbeat, assesses my breathing (with an extra cold stethoscope), and looks down my throat, up my nose, through my ears, and into …

Time for a Fiscal Physical? Read More »

What a year it’s been financially! Here’s a snapshot… A year ago, the stock market, as measured by the Dow Jones Industrial Average, closed at 34,390. Today (I’m writing this on September 30, 2022) the Dow stands at 28,725—about 17% lower!  Meanwhile, the S&P 500 has been falling since early January! A year ago, an …

When Will the Markets Bounce Back? Read More »

“You’re saying I should invest NOW?” Jordan almost choked as he thrust the heavy weights over his head.  He and his buddy Patrick regularly solved all the world’s problems during their noon workouts. On this day, the conversation had turned to personal finance. “Dude, the stock market is HORRIBLE!” Jordan said emphatically as he set …

Two “Dudes” Work Out an Investment Plan Read More »