Not Happy with Your Retirement? Remember- It's YOUR Money...

The first rule of personal finance is to understand that your money is, in fact, your money! The ultimate responsibility for the management of that money lies solely with you. If you are unsure or unable to provide that management, you can enlist the help of professionals. Even with their help, though, the ultimate responsibility remains with you!

In times where you may be unhappy with the performance of your investments, it should not be a surprise that  a financial professional may not share your sentiments. You are the one who is losing money, not them. "Outsiders" almost never share the same passion that you have about a prized possession, a favorite pastime, or a loved one.  Money functions the same way.  The only way to level the playing field is for you to get involved by learning the basics of sound money management. You need to be able to communicate clearly your needs, risks, and tolerance for different scenarios, and expect simple, clear responses in return.

You must learn to ask questions about your money, and only be satisfied when you can understand the answers you receive. If you're not getting those clear answers, a new path may be warranted.

Allowing someone to have free reign over your financial affairs is like walking into a car dealership, announcing that you wish to purchase a new vehicle, signing a blank check and handing it to the salesperson.  I would never do that, and I don't think you would either.   With that sceario in mind, would it amaze you to learn that many people do basically the same thing when it comes to their retirement or investment programs?  Step one for sound financial management is for you to get involved because it is your money!