From the desk of...............

From the desk of Wornel Simpson…Focusing On the Tough Decisions

I recently read an article on why great ideas within organizations fail to be implemented.  As I read the article, it struck me that the same rationale that applies internally to large organizations applied to my financial planning practice as well.  There are three major reasons why attempted changes often fail: the stakeholders do not understand it - confusion; they do not like it - fear; or the stakeholders do not like you – lack of trust. Most leaders are perfectly capable of establishing strategies, goals, and metrics, but often miss on the engagement. 

One of the most common errors leaders make in rolling out new projects is not realizing where the finish line is. During a recent lunch meeting, a good friend noted that Wayne Gretzky was the greatest hockey player of our time.  One of the revelations this friend pointed out was that Gretzky recognized his shortcomings.  Gretzky realized he maybe was not the best skater, or perhaps the fastest skater, and because of this understood that simply chasing the puck would be fruitless.  Instead, Gretzky anticipated where the puck was going next and skated there!

We have all heard the famous phrase from the film, Field of Dreams: If You Build It, They Will Come.  For business owners in today’s economic environment, that is one of the biggest misconceptions.  In fact, it is false!  No amount of training, advertising, expertise or even goodwill ensures that you can continue to grow revenue without continuing to grow expenses at a faster rate. 

Many, if not most, of us have been living beyond our means; therefore, a new normal is in order, particularly in terms of our expectations and growth. We must make a compelling vision that resonates intellectually and emotionally, and generally connects the dots! This must be accomplished for our employees, clients, and, most importantly, family members! 

I assume that if you are still reading this, trust is not an issue.  That leaves us with two possibilities: confusion or fear. In light of the financial markets climate and the real estate bubble burst over the past several years, fear is reasonable. Nevertheless, Wornel Simpson can guide you through the confusion.  

Let me assure you, we are diligent in helping you Focus On the Tough Decisions. Our mission for nearly 30 years has been “To see our clients through life’s personal and financial struggles utilizing objectivity, judgment, instinct and compassion.”

In focusing on these tough decisions, we will keep an eye on where the puck is going and utilize all the financial products, tools and tax savings techniques and strategies available to pull our financial lives together and get back on track. We must be truthful with ourselves and move forward! I cannot possibly contact each and every one of you personally, however, I can certainly help those of you who reach out. If you need the help and you understand that there are available solutions, I look forward to assisting you.