It’s not easy to talk about — but it’s necessary.
Most of us assume we’ll “make it” through life without major disruptions. We plan as if we’ll live to 90 in perfect health, with the freedom to spend our money exactly as we wish.
But life doesn’t always go according to plan.
The truth is, there are three realities we must all prepare for:
Death, disability, and making it.
1. Death
No one likes to think about it, but planning for what happens after
you’re gone is one of the most loving things you can do for your family.
A life plan ensures your wishes are honored, your loved ones are taken care of, and your legacy continues.
That might mean updating beneficiaries, creating trusts, or ensuring liquidity for estate expenses. But more than that — it’s about clarity.
Clarity for the people you care about most.
2. Disability
Disability can interrupt your ability to earn income or live independently. Yet, it’s one of the most under-planned-for risks out there.
A solid life plan accounts for the “what ifs”:
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What if I can’t work for six months?
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What if I need long-term care later in life?
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What if a family member depends on my income?
Planning for these possibilities doesn’t invite bad luck — it prevents unnecessary hardship.
3. Making It
The best part of a life plan? When everything does
go right.
When you reach the point where work becomes optional and you can truly live the life you’ve built — without financial stress or uncertainty.
That’s what we call “making it.”
But even then, the planning doesn’t stop. Because life doesn’t stop changing.
The Real Goal: Peace of Mind
When you’ve planned for all three outcomes — death, disability, and making it — you earn something few people have: peace of mind.
You know that no matter what life brings, your plan protects your future and the people who matter most.
And that’s what life planning is all about.
Demystifying Economic Jargon
Economic news often comes with a slew of complex terms that can feel overwhelming. Understanding key economic indicators can help you make more informed decisions about your financial future. Here's a breakdown of five essential economic terms that frequently appear in market updates and policy discussions.
Producer Price Index (PPI)
The Producer Price Index (PPI) tracks the changes in selling prices received by domestic producers for their output. As a leading indicator of inflation, rising PPI values can signal forthcoming increases in consumer prices since higher production costs eventually lead to higher retail prices.
Consumer Confidence Index (CCI)
Published monthly by The Conference Board, the Consumer Confidence Index (CCI) gauges the overall optimism of consumers regarding the economy and their personal financial situations. A high CCI generally leads to increased spending and economic growth, as confident consumers are more willing to make purchases and investments.
10-Year Treasury Yield
The 10-Year Treasury Yield is a significant benchmark for interest rates across the economy. Rising yields can indicate expectations of inflation or economic growth, while falling yields may signal economic uncertainty or slower growth. Investors closely watch Treasury yields as they provide insights into the economic outlook and market conditions.
Consumer Price Index (CPI)
The Consumer Price Index (CPI) is a measure that examines the average changes over time in the prices paid by urban consumers for goods and services. As the primary measure of inflation, shifts in the CPI affect purchasing power. A rising CPI reflects increased inflation, which can erode the value of money, impacting how much you can buy.
Consumer Sentiment Index
Compiled by the University of Michigan, the Consumer Sentiment Index measures consumer attitudes toward personal finances, business conditions, and spending plans. Similar in purpose to the CCI, it provides additional insights into consumer psychology. While both indexes serve to gauge consumer confidence, they derive from different methodologies and samples.
With an understanding of these terms, you are better equipped to interpret market fluctuations and align your financial strategies accordingly. Keep this guide handy for when economic terms cloud your thoughts, and consider sharing it with those who might also benefit from clearer economic insight.
