There’s something about the holidays that immediately makes us more sentimental, isn’t there?

There are delightful memories everywhere you look.

For most of us it’s a friendly reminder of the things that are truly important to us in life: family, loved ones, and un-interrupted time to spend with them.

But even for those that don’t enjoy the holidays as much, it’s usually also because of something relating to the most important things in life: strained family relationships that you wish weren’t strained, or the reminder that one of your closest loved ones is no longer around.

So many times in the world of financial planning, we get fixated on dollar amounts and the things those dollar amounts can buy for us: houses, cars, a retirement condo in Mexico, or the fanciest college education for our kids.

And while there’s nothing inherently wrong with those things, how much will they really matter?

What is their value compared to making amends with your sister so your aging parents can enjoy a full, happy family gathering in their later years?

What does a condo in Mexico or a swanky degree for your kids mean if you never actually get to spend that much time with them, now or in the future?

Would you rather have a second vacation home, or the ability to retire early to spend more time volunteering for the causes you love?

There are no wrong answers, but it’s something I’d encourage you to think about this holiday season.

New year goal setting is just around the corner, and with that, most of us set financial goals as well. Do your current financial goals and financial purpose line up with your emotional goals?

If not, how can you change that?

If needed, grab some time with one of our financial planners to get on the right track, and have no regrets about how you spent your time or your money.