As an investment professional with 30 years of experience under my belt (and a few more gray hairs to prove it), I have had the privilege of advising and managing substantial assets for a wide range of investors from the exceptionally wealthy to hardworking individuals looking to grow their hard-earned savings. Well, a few of them actually thought “diversification” was a fancy word for planting different types of flowers.
Over the decades, I have learned that whether someone has six zeros in their account or is saving for their first zero, the principles of trust, integrity, and fiduciary responsibility remain the same. Like everyone else, I have had my ups and downs. Those early years were a steep learning curve and think of it as the financial equivalent of learning to ride a bike, except the bike was on fire and the road was uphill.
Every stumble taught me something valuable and every success reinforced my commitment to doing right by my clients. Through it all, I have found that Transcendental Meditation and a deepening spiritual practice have been my anchors. They have helped me maintain perspective and approach challenges with a calm and clear mind.
Whether it is a market crash that feels like a rollercoaster without seatbelts or a bull run that makes everyone feel like a genius, I have learned to balance the highs and lows with a higher level of consciousness. On another note, some people say they “understand” volatility until they live through a bear market.
One thing I can say with absolute certainty is my conscience is always clear. I sleep well at night knowing I have done my best to act in the best interests of my clients regardless of what others may say or think.
In our show business, you will always encounter opinions, criticisms and armchair experts. At the end of the day, the only approval I need is my own and the trust of the clients who rely on me.
I’m selective about who I work with regardless of the levels of wealth. I choose to collaborate with people who value my work and trust my expertise. After all, the best relationships whether personal or professional are built on mutual respect and shared goals.