Like most families with school-aged kids, the school year keeps us busy—not just during the week, but on evenings and weekends, too. And as the school year goes along, the intensity ramps up. Beyond the usual sports and activities, we’re suddenly juggling end-of-year programs, parties, and ceremonies. I joke that we don’t so much glide into summer as crash-land into it—by the time summer rolls around, we need the break.
This year felt familiar in that whirlwind kind of way, with one major difference: our daughter graduated from high school. We knew the day would come, but that didn’t make it any less emotional. High school and college graduations stir up a beautiful mix of feelings. We look back on all the memories we’ve made, and at the same time, we’re filled with excitement (and maybe a few nerves) about what’s next—especially when our kids are heading off to study something they’re passionate about.
Big transitions are exciting, nerve-racking, fulfilling, even scary. Whether it’s graduation, starting a new job, getting married, having children, retiring, or even saying goodbye to a loved one—these seasons of change are deeply impactful.
One aspect of transitions that often stirs anxiety is the financial side. Moving from high school to college, college to career, career to family life, or family life to retirement—each stage brings new financial responsibilities. That’s why planning is key. It’s not just about having savings and investments in place—it’s about making sure those investments are balanced and aligned with your goals.
To help with that, we’re rolling out a new software program this summer. It’ll let you track your investments in real time, but more importantly, it’ll help you map out your goals—whether you’re just starting out or planning your legacy. Our hope is that this tool will ease the stress of life’s transitions and free you up to focus on what really matters: making the most of the big and little moments you have with the people you love.
~Travis Raish, CFA