4 Ways Financial Planners Are Just Like You

When it comes to seeking financial advice, many people hesitate, fearing judgment or feeling unworthy of help until they’re already financially secure. But the truth is, financial planners are just like you, facing similar challenges and opportunities. Here’s why you shouldn’t wait to start planning your financial future.

1. We Have Debt Too

Financial planners often take on debt for the same reasons you do—whether it's a mortgage, student loans, or starting a business. It’s all part of building a future. Like you, we sometimes carry balances, and we know how to plan around them. If you have debt, there’s no need to hide it. The key is making a plan to manage it, and that’s where we come in.

2. We’re Accountability Coaches (and Need One Too!)

As financial planners, we serve as accountability coaches for our clients, helping them stick to their financial goals. But even we need advice and accountability in our own financial journeys. We often consult with other professionals to get second opinions or guidance, so rest assured that collaboration is key to success.

3. We Don’t Know It All (and That’s Okay)

The financial landscape is always changing, from tax laws to investment strategies. While we stay updated on the latest trends, no one knows everything. A good financial planner doesn’t pretend to know it all but instead builds a trusted network of experts. Our job is to find the best solutions, even if that means consulting someone with specialized knowledge.

4. We’ve Missed Financial Opportunities

Even the best financial planners miss opportunities. Maybe it’s a tax advantage we didn’t capitalize on or an investment that didn’t pan out. This is part of the financial journey. Just like you, we make calculated decisions based on our individual plans. The important thing is learning from these experiences and continuing to make informed choices.

Financial planning is a lot like navigating a jungle gym—there are twists, turns, and surprises along the way. But with the right strategy and mindset, you can climb higher toward financial freedom.


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Christopher Swan, CFP®, MBA

In 2010, I started my career in financial services.

Making phone calls for independent advisors in Austin, TX, I quickly found myself drawn to the work.

By 2014, I was a licensed financial advisor, learning the ropes at firms like Edward Jones, Merrill Lynch, and Charles Schwab.

Over the years, I helped people at every stage of life:

Those just starting out.

Those at the end of their journey, focused on legacy.

And everyone in between.

Through it all, I prayed.

Prayed for God to guide me toward the most purposeful work I could do.

Eventually, it became clear—

My biggest impact would be helping people transition into retirement.

By creating secure, reliable plans, I could help people:

Feel confident.

Transition comfortably.

And focus on what matters most: faith, family, fitness, fun, and fulfillment.

That’s why I founded Retire With Swan.

We don’t just focus on numbers.

We focus on people.

To make the retirement transition easier, faster, and more transformational,

I crafted the Swan Song System and GRACE Framework.

These systems simplify the complexities of retirement planning.

They help you clarify your goals, protect your income, and build a roadmap to peace of mind.

If you’re planning your transition into retirement, I’d love to help.

And remember:

It’s never too late—or too early—to better plan your exit.

https://www.retirewithswan.com
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