While we may not feel the usual sense of a “fresh start” this New Year, we can use the transition as an opportunity to consider some valuable lessons that can help us navigate the next set of challenges.

We made a short video reflecting on three lessons we learned in 2020 that we think can make us stronger in 2021.

You can watch it here.

Transcription:

Hello, I’m Dr. Chris Mullis with NorthStar Capital Advisors. 2020 was a challenging year for me. Was it challenging for you as well?

Every December, I like to take time to reflect on the past year and think about what I learned. I think that’s more important than ever this year, and I wanted to share my thoughts with you. I hope they’re useful to you as you take stock of 2020 and plan for the new year.

Though 2020 was immensely challenging for me personally and professionally, the difficulties held valuable lessons for me. Here are three lessons I’m planning to keep in mind as we head into the new year.

Lesson #1: Expect the unexpected.

I know, it’s easier said than done, but it’s so true. I can’t count the number of plans I had to change, reschedule, or even cancel this year. You know one of the things that I missed the most is the joy of seeing my children’s musical performances.

In my work, I’ve learned to help clients build contingencies and backup plans. Now, I’ve incorporated that into my personal life so that I can switch gears whenever circumstances change. And the more I “go with the flow,” the more creative I’m becoming at finding solutions when new roadblocks pop up.

Lesson #2: Appreciate what you have.

We’ve all experienced losses this year, and some of those losses were profound. And yet we’re still here. That, in itself, is a gift. In 2021, I’m going to take more time to recognize the blessings in my life, especially when I’m feeling anxious or under stress. Personally, I’m grateful for my family, good health, and good neighbors. And I’m especially thankful for folks like you.

Lesson #3: Ask for help.

We’re none of us an island, especially during challenging times. Asking for help and support from the people around you is a sign of strength and courage. During this past year I’ve leaned on the strength and wisdom of fellow advisors to adapt, improve and grow professionally. And I’m going to keep doing that.

In 2021, I hope we can both recognize when we’re not at our best and reach out for support when we need it. Now I’d like to hear from you. What did you learn from 2020, and what are you taking with you into 2021?

Will you please drop me a note to let me know?

As a financial planner, I’m used to being someone in the know, but I also learn so much from my clients and my friends.  Can you teach me a lesson from your own experiences this year?

Are you still feeling shell-shocked by 2020 or thinking about financial goals for the new year? Just me drop a note to let me know. I’ll reach out.

Thank you for being on this incredible journey with me. I’m so honored by your trust and I look forward to learning many new lessons together in the year to come.

We are so deeply grateful for you allowing us to be part of your journey to a stronger financial future and we’re sending you our warmest wishes.

2020 was a year of immense uncertainty, global shocks, and worry. It was also a year where the indomitable human spirit shined.

We don’t yet know what 2021 will bring for us, the markets, or the economy. We have a new president who might bring big changes (including increasing taxes on some folks). New vaccines and treatments will help whittle away the pandemic’s threat. Life will go on.

There’s a lot we can’t control about the future, but we can control a few things.

As we usher in a new year with great expectations, can we commit to a few things together?

Harnessing Our Dreams Amid Uncertainty
A lot of dreams were deferred this year. But let’s move forward and recommit to them even if they look a little different in our new world. Our job together is to help you grow and protect your wealth so you can use it to reach your aspirations, retire in comfort, create change in the world, and leave a legacy of love.

Building Up Ourselves (And Our Behaviors)
With so much out of our control (the markets, the economy, pandemics, and other shocks), it’s so important to focus on ourselves, our hopes, our goals, and our dreams. Identifying the choices in our control isn’t just a good financial lesson, it’s a great life lesson. There’s a quote we like from the Stoic philosopher Epictetus, who said:

“The chief task in life is simply this: to identify and separate matters so that I can say clearly to myself which are externals not under my control, and which have to do with the choices I actually control.”

Increasing Our Kindness And Patience
In a time of political polarization and increasing social chasms, let’s commit to treating each other with kindness, patience, love, and respect. We’re not sure who originated this quote, but we try to keep it in mind when we talk to folks we disagree with:

“Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.”

Focusing on Time in the Market, Not Timing the Market
Timing the market is impossible to do consistently and well. Even for the pros who spend their lives watching six monitors at a time. The best day to invest in the market is the day after you get paid. The most potent factor you have as an investor is time. Markets are unpredictable, and those who jump in and out based on emotion or “gut feelings” about tops and bottoms typically do worst of all.

What else should we commit to together?

In closing, please accept our gratitude, our good wishes, and our thoughts for the year ahead. May you and yours enjoy warmth, love, and success in 2021.

Warmest Wishes,
The NorthStar Team