by Greg Robb
June 15, 2005

The investment community has never been short on opinions. How much YOU should save, how much YOU should spend, what investment plan is best for YOU, how should YOU plan for your financial future, and how do YOU secure the financial future of YOUR loved ones. The assumptions made by the media are grotesque at best when it comes to the mass delivery of advice within the wealth planning world. If the magazines, newspapers, and other dispensers of informational sludge spent more time delivering an education along with the facts, rather than their poorly motivated opinion we would all stand a much better chance of reaching our own personal financial goals. Unfortunately, delivery of information not only costs money but has become a mega billion dollar industry dependant on profitability to support mass distribution.

Now, as we all know, not a single one of us is nearly as stupid as all of us. That being said, the media, in its mass distribution model, has elected to cater to the mass's thirst for useless information ("this year's hot stocks...tonight at eleven" or "five mutual funds you must own now") rather than helping people figure out what is truly important (having a time tested plan for each of their needs, wants, and goals.) Unfortunately two obstacles exist in the delivery of sound financial advice via traditional media. First, those writing the articles will never be remembered (or more importantly, become famous) if they continue to deliver the type of advice that has created and protected wealth for generations. Conversely, if they have an alternative opinion, and for some period of time - however brief - all the planets align, creating the proper gravitational pull... "Whammo!" a financial guru is born. Second, and more importantly, media companies make money selling media. I know that sounds simple, but the truth of the matter is - it's that simple. Would you ask your mechanic how much basil is needed for the perfect pesto? Surely not, so why do we look to the media for advice about investments? Making pesto? Ask a chef. Wondering about the proper gas to air mixture for your 426 Hemi at 3,000 feet above sea level? Ask a mechanic. Wondering what options are available to help insure your financial freedom? Now you are talking my language.

That's right, I will not be helping out with the Lager Blogger - my favorite beer is Miller High Life Light. And I surely won't know the hybrid car that gets the best gas mileage - I drive a 4x4 the size of Rhode Island. But most importantly I won t be contributing useless financial garble to the masses of lemmings willing to follow anyone who prints the investment du jour on the glossiest paper. I will be here to educate, to increase awareness, and to act as a reference to anyone who contacts me directly in pursuit of knowledge. I will save my opinions for good food, good music, and good bourbon. In this column you can expect an education to form your own opinions concerning your financial future. If you still want guidance seek a professional YOU pay to understand YOUR goals and all the concerns important to YOU.

Next month - your personal mission and personal vision. You don't plan a vacation without knowing where you are going so don't construct your financial plan without your personal mission and personal vision.