Sometimes, the biggest adventure isn't climbing a mountain – it's figuring out what comes next. I remember my own grandma, a vibrant woman who loved Colorado, feeling a little lost when she retired from her teaching career. She’s always been so full of energy, and suddenly, she had all this time, but didn’t quite know how to fill it in a way that felt meaningful. It wasn't about a lack of things to do; it was about finding a new sense of purpose, a new rhythm.
That feeling, that transition, is something many of us experience here in Colorado, especially as we enter retirement. It's a time of incredible opportunity, but it can also bring questions about family, finances, and overall well-being. Do we have enough put away? How do we navigate healthcare options? How do we stay connected to the people we love?
This list isn't about complicated rules or scary investments. It's about practical guidance, gentle encouragement, and a little bit of inspiration to help you embrace this next chapter with confidence and joy. It’s about finding peace of mind, knowing you've got a good plan, and having the space to truly enjoy the beautiful Colorado life you’ve earned.
The Total Money Makeover: A Proven Plan for Financial Fitness
This book offers a refreshing perspective on managing one's finances, one that is both straightforward and compassionate. The author, a well-known expert in the field, has seen the devastation that financial struggles can bring to individuals and families, and is committed to sharing a solution that is both effective and empowering. Rather than promising quick fixes or relying on theory, the author takes a practical approach, focusing on the personal and emotional aspects of money management. It's a message that resonates deeply, especially for those who have struggled with debt and financial insecurity. The author's bold approach is not about blaming others or perpetuating myths, but about confronting the root causes of financial problems and offering a clear path forward. By debunking common misconceptions and challenging the status quo, the author provides a hopeful and uplifting message that encourages readers to take control of their financial lives. Ultimately, this book is not just about money; it's about freedom, peace of mind, and the opportunity to live a life that is truly fulfilling.
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Broker Executive
This book is a must-read for business owners and executives who want to make the most out of their insurance and insurance broker. I remember when I was running my own small business, I was always on the lookout for ways to minimize risks and maximize returns. It was a struggle to find the right insurance broker who could understand my business needs and provide solutions that aligned with my goals. That's when I stumbled upon this strategic guidebook, which has since become my go-to resource for navigating the complex world of insurance. The book explains the thought process a broker should go through to find the right solution for a business, with a focus on using life insurance as a business tool. It's amazing how much value can be created using insurance, from succession planning to key personnel retention strategies, and the book does a great job of uncovering these techniques. What I love most about this book is that it's not just about selling insurance, it's about building relationships and providing value to customers. The author's passion for business ethics and customer service shines through on every page, making this book a must-read for anyone who wants to elevate their business.
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Modern Real Estate Investing: The Delaware Statutory Trust
This book is a game-changer for anyone looking to invest in real estate, especially those who may not have had access to it before. The author introduces the concept of the Delaware Statutory Trust, which is a way for investors to build a diversified portfolio of high-quality properties while navigating the complexities of tax laws. What I love about this book is how it breaks down the process into manageable steps, making it feel less overwhelming and more achievable. The author provides practical advice on choosing the right brokers, sponsors, and properties, as well as delves into the tax benefits of investing in real estate. I was particularly fascinated by the explanation of the 1031 exchange and how it can help balance risk. The author also expertly explains the impact of the Trump tax plan on DST structures, making it clear that this is an area that's worth paying attention to. One of the things that struck me about this book was the emphasis on compounding and the power of delayed taxes. The author shares real-life examples of how this can lead to significant tax savings, and I appreciated the takeaways on dos and don'ts in the 1031 exchange. What I think is most exciting about this book is that it provides an opportunity for smaller investors to access properties that were previously out of their reach. The author's enthusiasm for this subject matter is infectious, and I left the book feeling inspired to start exploring my own real estate investment options.
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The Real Deal on Retirement: The Truth About Retirement Income Planning and Investing
Creating a stable, increasing, and tax-efficient lifetime income is the key to a secure retirement, but the traditional approach to retirement planning is flawed and can be dangerous. The idea that saving a certain amount will suffice is no longer a reliable strategy, as financial markets are volatile, life expectancy is increasing, and individual needs and circumstances can vary greatly. Drawing from his experience advising retirees during turbulent decades, the author challenges conventional wisdom and offers a revolutionary approach to retirement planning. By focusing on creating stable, increasing, and tax-efficient income, and mitigating risk, it's possible to generate all the income needed while minimizing the risks. This guide provides a comprehensive road map to retire with confidence, unlock the full potential of one's hard work, and achieve their retirement dreams. It's essential to reevaluate traditional retirement planning and adopt a more practical and effective approach, one that considers individual circumstances and takes into account the complexities of modern financial markets.
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Art Thinking: How to Carve Out Creative Space in a World of Schedules, Budgets, and Bosses
This book is about how to think creatively in a world where we're often busy and under pressure to achieve our goals. The author, Amy Whitaker, shares inspiring stories of people from different fields, such as athletes, managers, writers, and scientists, to show us how they use creative thinking to achieve their goals. Amy, who has an MBA and an MFA, has experience as an entrepreneur-in-residence at the New Museum Incubator, and she draws on her own experiences to share practical principles and inspiration to help us navigate the challenges of balancing creative thinking with getting results. She argues that we can't just follow a linear path, we need to invent our own path, and she provides tools and mindsets to help us protect space for open-ended exploration and manage risks on our way to success. I think it's so important to remember that creativity is not just for artists, it's for anyone who wants to achieve their goals and make a positive impact in the world. The book is full of inspiring ideas and practical advice, and I think it's perfect for anyone who wants to think more creatively and achieve their dreams.
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