When people first come to me for financial planning, they often expect a lecture.

They think they’ll need to cut back, save more, delay gratification, and shelve their big dreams for “someday.” They expect me to play the role of the rational gatekeeper—ready to say no to anything that feels fun or impulsive.

But that’s not how I work. And it’s not what real financial planning is about.

Yes, there’s value in discipline. But there’s also power in knowing when to say yes.

The Guitar Story

A client recently sent me a link to an expensive guitar he’d been eyeing. He was hesitant. Excited, but also feeling that familiar twinge of guilt: Can I really justify this? Is this responsible? Should I even be thinking about this?

We looked at the numbers. We talked about his savings, his goals, and how much joy this guitar would actually bring him.

And you know what I told him?

Go for it.

I didn’t “give him permission”; he doesn’t need that from me. But I helped him feel confident that he could enjoy something meaningful, without jeopardizing anything important.

That’s part of the job.

Financial Planning Is About Freedom

It’s easy to associate financial planning with restrictions. Spreadsheets, budgets, optimization, the whole “stop buying lattes” mindset.

But in reality, financial planning is about freedom. It’s about helping people get clear on their values, design a plan that reflects those values, and then go live the life they actually want.

If we do it right, the plan should make space for guitars. For family vacations. For good food, spontaneous weekends, and dream homes.

We’re Tracking More Than Net Worth

In my line of work, I get to see people at pivotal moments in their lives.

I’ve helped clients pay off massive student loans. I’ve been one of the first to know they’re expecting a child. I’ve watched them buy their first homes, switch firms, or finally start saving for themselves after years of grinding it out for others.

These are deeply human moments. They don’t show up neatly in a financial report—but they’re exactly why we plan.

The goal isn’t just to hit a number. It’s to shape a life that feels worth all the effort it took to get there.

The Real Role of a Planner

I’m not here to control anyone’s choices or be the adult in the room.

My role is to create a space where people feel confident—where they know they’re on track, and where they have permission (from themselves) to enjoy the ride. To say yes to joy, knowing the foundation is solid.

Because sometimes, the best financial decision you can make is to live a little.

Get in Touch: Contact@ConcertPlanning.com

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