Love and Money

Love and Money - Making Financial Decisions Together

You do it for love... Have you ever thought about your true motivations? Primarily we ultimately make all of our decisions based on love. It could be your love for an individual, your family, your business or your passion. This is why money is not a true motivator, love is the why we do things.

In this special issue, I will reveal:

• 3 tips for Improving Your Marriage
• How To Reduce Stress in Your Marriage
• Living the Good Life

3 tips for Improving Your Marriage

Tip #1. Hold a Monthly Financial Meeting
Many couples never talk openly about money, so when financial issues pop-up, it often leads to conflict. One of the best ways to overcome this is to sit down with your loved one on a regular basis, preferably monthly to discuss your financial matters.

Topics to discuss:
1. Spending
2. Saving
3. Budget
4. Major Expenditures

Financial literacy is of supreme importance, and all involved should be educating themselves on how their money is flowing. Once you determine where your money is going and for what, you will become more aware of how and why you make your purchases. Being aware of possible problems before they occur is also key.

The solution is to sit down with your partner monthly and go over your financial plan. Look closely at your spending patterns and discuss future expenditures. Determine if what you are spending your money on is really necessary. Is this expenditure a need or a want? 

Tip #2. Accept a Shared Responsibility
Often today, I hear of couples having separate checking accounts, but when you do this, are you really sharing in your responsibility? It is common for one spouse to play the primary role in managing finances, but both partners should be involved with financial decisions and at least be aware of how the money is being utilized. 

Again, I advocate financial literacy. When you understand what's going on with your money, you will know how to use it to your advantage.

Be aware that when one spouse makes all of the financial decisions, you are setting yourself up for conflict in the future.

Tip #3. Invest in Your Financial Knowledge
When you invest in your financial knowledge you will begin to think differently. Since we were kids we have been trained to work hard, go to school and get the best job possible. We are told that our academic education and the number of hours we trade for dollars will make us happy. If this worked, why are there so many divorces? And, why are so many people broke today?

Often debt is to blame for failed marriages, but the true culprit is a lack of financial education. We are taught very little in school about how money really works, because the goal of an academic education is to get a "job".

When you discover how a business works, you will have a different outlook on finances. Businesses earn a profit, not a paycheck. Jim Rohn once said, A job will earn you a paycheck, but a business will earn you a fortune.

Many books are available to help you increase your financial literacy. Here are some of my favorites:
http://www.legacyinsuranceagency.com/recommended-reading.html

 

How To Reduce Stress in Your Marriage

Reducing stress involves making decisions with confidence and together. By increasing your financial knowledge you will in turn increase your confidence when making financial decisions. When you plan your financial future, you will be prepared for whatever comes your way.

If you want to reduce stress and financial worry in your marriage, you need to have a plan. Your plan needs to be discussed on a regular basis (see Tips above). Your plan should include goals that you determined together. Once you determine your financial goals you can work together to achieve those goals.

While most financial plans today are put together by financial advisors from major financial institutions, they do not contain any guarantees. That is because these plans are based on paper assets where you as the investor take all of the risk. Even if you do the investing yourself, there is still a lot of luck and guesswork, with very little predictability.

A better alternative to traditional financial planning is to Become Your Own Banker. Why leave the results of your plan up to the investment bankers? Do you find it ironic that in 2008, we as taxpayers, bailed out the largest financial institutions in the world? And, these same financial institutions and banks still ask us to invest our money with them?

You can learn how to Become Your Own Banker by requesting a no-cost, no-obligation analysis:
http://legacyinsuranceagency.com/financial/financial-review-analysis.html

Living the Good Life

The idea of retirement typically involves leaving the workforce. However, if you do your research you will find that this is a government idea. An idea that involves dependency on others. Sadly today, less than 5% of Americans can retire when they expected to or live without government assistance.

The good news is, instead of depending on government assistance or qualified plans (IRA, 401k, etc), you can live the good life and control your own financial destiny. By Becoming Your Own Banker, as outlined in the bestselling book, you can live your life without restrictions.

When you Become Your Own Banker:

• You control your money.
• You can make decisions without penalty.
• You have liquidity.
• You have guarantees.
• You have peace of mind.

The Infinite Banking Concept, as outlined in the bestselling book Becoming Your Own Banker by R. Nelson Nash, is a way to create a personal financial system where you remain in control. You can finance all of your purchases over your lifetime, with your own bank! You have a solid foundation that will protect you and your loved ones in the event of financial loss. You will have access to capital when you need it and for anything you want without taxes, penalties or restrictions. Learn more and order the book, Becoming Your Own Banker, here: http://legacyinsuranceagency.com/byob/becomingyourownbanker.html

Now is the time to protect your loved ones and create your own legacy of love. Take control of your finances today by learning how to become your own banker. Request a no-cost, no-obligation analysis:
http://legacyinsuranceagency.com/financial/financial-review-analysis.html
 

Show your love this Valentine's Day by controlling your financial future and protecting what matters most.

I'm truly yours to count on,
Barry Page
Legacy Insurance Agency, PLLC
www.legacyinsuranceagency.com

 

Barry Page is recognized as a leading expert on life insurance and private banking. He is a financial consultant and independent life insurance agent who helps clients with tax advantaged investment alternatives. He specializes in showing families how to protect their assets, income and lives utilizing a macro-financial approach to planning.

His specialized knowledge and services help consumers find alternatives to traditional investing and the stock market that not only safely protects their savings, but also provide tax advantages. His business is based in Ocean Springs, Mississippi and he services clients throughout the Southeast.

It’s Time! How To Set and Reach Your Financial Goals

It’s Time!

How To Set and Reach
Your Financial Goals for the New Year

The New Year is upon us, and it’s time to set your financial goals! Why would you wait around on something so important? The problem is, most people want to achieve higher financial goals, but they don’t truly understand how to set goals and furthermore how to reach them.

Perhaps you’ve set goals before, and they haven’t worked out, so you were discouraged. This time, to be successful, you must act on a plan. It’s time!

Before you start working on your financial goals plan, there are some questions you must ask yourself. Be honest with yourself about the things that are important to you.

Questions you need to ask yourself in setting your financial goal:

• What do I want to attain financially?
• Why is important for me to be financially secure?
• Do I want to be comfortable or do I want to become wealthy?

Getting started requires two action steps; first, you need to determine your general financial goal and, second, you have to become financially literate so that you can learn to think like the wealthy.

Do you really want to be wealthy? The answer to this question is important because it will determine your efforts toward creating wealth. Bear in mind that a “goal' is different from a “wish”. You may wish to be wealthy, but that doesn't mean you've taken any practical steps to make that wish come true. Having the “desire” to become wealthy is what you will need to achieve your financial goal.

Wishful thinking is merely a want, desire, on the other hand, is a extremely potent. Desire is a supreme motivator that literally creates a driving force. The truth about most people who claim to want success is that they actually do not desire success, what they desire is comfort and security.

In the famous and bestselling book, Think and Grow Rich, author Napoleon Hill, outlines 13 Success Principles.

The 13 Success Principles are:

1.            Desire

2.            Faith

3.            Auto-Suggestion

4.            Specialized Knowledge

5.            Imagination

6.            Organized Planning

7.            Decision

8.            Persistence

9.            The Master Mind

10.          Transmutation

11.          The Subconscious Mind

12.          The Brain

13.          The Sixth Sense

Napoleon Hill’s success principles are as relevant today as they were a century ago. In his book, Hill teaches you to think differently, and it is a must read for anyone wanting to become rich.

Would you like a free copy of the book, Think and Grow Rich? This book has created more millionaires than any other book or program ever produced. You can get a free copy just by clicking this link: Think and Grow Rich

If you've already earned enough money to start saving, then likely it has been invested with an eye toward security – since, perhaps, you can't imagine yourself ever truly becoming wealthy.

In the book, Rich Dad Poor Dad, author Robert Kiyoksaki, discusses his “Rich Dad’s” teachings. He said most people dream of becoming wealthy, but it isn't their first choice. That's because the effort and uncertainty of becoming rich disturbs them and they seek refuge in the easier goals of security or comfort. 

People who make security and comfort their first and second choices are often seeking a single 'hot investment tip' – a simple, risk-free way of getting rich quick. Some people do get rich on one lucky investment, but all too frequently the money they amass is later lost. You can get a copy of Rich Dad Poor Dad here: Rich Dad Poor Dad

While many books have been written on the subject of becoming rich, this text is not intended to be a complete novel. What it is intended to do is motivate you to take action, NOW! 

I’ve outlined a few simple steps on how to set and reach your financial goals. Your decision and discipline will determine your success. Remember, a quitter never wins and a winner never quits.

How To Set Your Financial Goal in 7 Steps

Step 1: What is Your Financial Goal? (Be specific)

Step 2: Why is it Important to Achieve Your Goal? (Be honest)

Step 3: Set a Deadline to Achieve Your Goal (Break it down)

Step 4: Identify Your Obstacles (Recognize you will have challenges)

Step 5: Identify Your Allies (Who/What can help you achieve your goal?)

Step 6: Develop Your Financial Plan (Simply write it down)

Step 7: Maintain a Journal or Record (Track your activity)

Now that you’ve set your financial goal it’s time to take action. ACTION IS THE MOST IMPORTANT STEP. You will likely find that you, like most people, are a creature of habits. And, your habits determine your direction in life. If you want to achieve success with any goal, you will have to form positive habits. 

Habits typically take about 2 weeks of consistent effort to be formed. After that they become a natural effort. In the beginning you may have to force yourself to do the things you need to do to achieve your goal.

You must follow a process to get the desired result. Break down your larger goal into smaller goals. Reward yourself along the way when you reach your short-term goals.

Focus on what it is you want to achieve. Remind yourself on a regular basis why it is important for you to accomplish this goal. This means that you may have to post reminders or set alarms. You will want to find ways to interrupt any negative patterns that will keep you from reaching your goal and replace them with positive patterns. The best way to do this is by changing your thoughts and by associating with others who are goal oriented.

Your attitude will determine your success in achieving your goal. Regardless of where you are financially right now, you can improve your life. Fill your mind with positive thoughts by reading positive books and turning off the negative news. When you view life with a positive mental attitude you are leaps and bounds ahead of the rest.

Get started today on your financial goals, contact us for a no obligation Financial Review.

Yours to count on,
Barry Page, RFC
Registered Financial Consultant
Legacy Insurance Agency, PLLC
www.legacyinsuranceagency.com 

Barry Page, RFC is recognized as a leading expert on life insurance and private banking. He is a Registered Financial Consultant and independent life insurance agent who helps clients with tax advantaged investment alternatives. He specializes in showing families how to protect their assets, income and lives utilizing a macro-financial approach to planning.

His specialized knowledge and services help consumers find alternatives to traditional investing and the stock market that not only safely protects their savings, but also provide tax advantages. His business is based in Ocean Springs, Mississippi and he services clients throughout the Southeast. 

Where is Your Money?

Where is Your Money? Over the years you’ve heard me discuss the many options for saving and investing. While many financial gurus are still telling you to “max out your contributions” to retirement accounts, I’m raising the warning flag again…

But, I’m not the only one this time. You need to look no further than your newspaper or TV to find stories and articles on theft, corruption and taxes… Here’s a few that made headlines:

Wall Street Journal: “Missing MF Global Funds Could Top $1.2 Billion”
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970204443404577052143849159420.html/
 
ZeroHedge: "The Entire System Has Been Utterly Destroyed By The MF Global Collapse"
http://www.zerohedge.com/news/entire-system-has-been-utterly-destroyed-mf-global-collapse-presenting-first-mf-global-casualty/

60 Minutes: “INSIDERS - Congressional Insider Trading”
http://youtu.be/x95uC_wzUX4/

CBS News: “Super committee's failure = super chance in 2012”
http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-215_162-57329393/super-committees-failure-super-chance-in-2012

InfoWars: “17 Quotes About The Coming Global Financial Collapse That Will Make Your Hair Stand Up” 
http://www.infowars.com/17-quotes-about-the-coming-global-financial-collapse-that-will-make-your-hair-stand-up/

FOXNEWS: “National Debt Hits $15 Trillion”
http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2011/11/16/national-debt-hits-15t-as-congress-strains-to-cut-12t/

Washington Post: “Treasury to Tap Pensions to Help Fund Government”
http://www.washingtonpost.com/business/economy/treasury-to-tap-pensions-to-help-fund-government/2011/05/15/AF2fqK4G_story.html?fb_ref=NetworkNews/


Okay, enough with the bad news, my message is not to depress or scare you. My intent is only to create awareness and motivate you to take action towards taking control of your personal assets. As an advisor it is my job, and I feel my responsibility, to warn you when you are at risk. I fear that the current economic situation, and the government control of U.S. retirement plans, will ultimately lead to the confiscation of trillions of dollars in what most assume are privately held assets. Why would you put another dime into a government qualified plan?

Here’s the good news, you have time to protect your assets before this assault on your private assets. But, don’t wait… Take an honest inventory of what is most important to you, and protect your assets while you have time. 

Contact me via my website www.legacyinsuranceagency.com and I will show you in 45 minutes how you could benefit from a program tailored to your unique circumstances. I've developed a unique, no-obligation, Financial Check-Up that can protect you and your family from financial predators and economic pitfalls. There will be no pressure, and you will not be asked to buy anything at this meeting.

Have a wonderful holiday!
Barry Page, RFC

Barry Page, RFC is a Registered Financial Consultant and Licensed Insurance Agent. He is an advocate for families and small business, and publishes this blog and www.legacyinsuranceagency.com to promote financial intelligence.

What Would You Do If You Knew You Couldn't Fail?

What Would You Do If You Knew You Couldn't Fail? Think about that for a moment. We often turn our heads or close our minds to new ideas because of fear. If you take it a step further, and consider the outcome being a positive one, then imagine the possibilities.

I have learned through the Infinite Banking Concept, that my capital has a cost, and I must recoup my capital outlay to practice this principle. You see my spending habits will cost me THOUSANDS of DOLLARS of MY OWN MONEY every year if I don't practice banking.

Now, let's take it a step further and discuss what it will cost you if you continue down the traditional path of financing and paying cash for your purchases. This is only 1 example out of numerous ways that you can transfer away your wealth over your lifetime.

Here's an example of purchasing a car: Automobile Financing
What would you do with 1 MILLYUN$?

So, you may be thinking that you're not going to purchase that many more cars or you'll buy used ones. What about your kids? and grandkids? You see, IBC is about keeping your money in the family.

And, have you thought about the Cost of College? Credit Cards? And, other purchases you will make.

The whole idea is to recapture the interest that you are paying to banks and finance companies for the major items that you will purchase over your lifetime, such as automobiles, major appliances, education, homes, investment opportunities, business equipment, etc.

"You finance EVERYTHING that you buy. You either pay interest to others or you give up the ability to earn interest by paying cash." ~Nelson Nash

Why would I be encouraging you to learn the Infinite Banking Concept? Because I want you to learn what I've learned, and yes, ultimately you may become a client. If you do, you will discover why my clients are calling me and thanking me during these tough, economic times. I am convinced that IBC will change your life, the way that it has mine.

You see, when I first got in the financial services business, I was encouraged to follow and teach others the same, tired methods of accumulating wealth that everyone else is using. I soon learned that those methods are a failure! If traditional financial planning worked, why do you think that so many people are broke and struggling to make ends meet?

These flawed methods of personal economics focus on the accumulation of wealth by  consistently contributing to an account and compounding the interest earned over time. When we subject ourselves to this form of thinking we are limiting our human life value.

Over time fallacies and falsehoods develop into myths. Falsehoods developed and perpetuated by so called "financial gurus" limit our productivity and stifle our human life value. Myths destroy our confidence by instilling our minds with doubt and fear.

You have probably heard the following fallacies and myths:
1. You're in it for the long-haul.
2. High-Risk = High Returns.
3. The market has averaged 10-12% over time.
4. Work hard, go to college and get a good job.
5. Save money, get out of debt, invest for the long-term and diversify.
6. When you retire you'll be in a lower tax bracket.
7. When you retire you won't need insurance.

What makes theses Myths so Destructive is that they are based on a scarcity mindset, and are Perpetuated from Generation to Generation. When we embrace the scarcity mindset we are buying into the belief that our resources are limited. Scarcity fails to account for self-worth and further limits our opportunity for ownership and growth.

If you can't afford to wait 20-30 years to build retirement wealth then learn how the VELOCITY OF MONEY can turn your financial world around and put you in control of your money. Learn how banks grow their bottom lines and Use Your Money to make money, Learn HOW TO BECOME YOUR OWN BANKER.

Today, my entire practice revolves around teaching others about the Infinite Banking Concept. Because I've learned firsthand that it works, and I've seen the impact it can have on other people's lives. So, I'm reaching out to you, because I care about you and your family. I care that your family may be subjected to the same fallacies and myths that the financial institutions
and elite want you to believe.

TO DO NOTHING IS TO RISK EVERYTHING! You have NOTHING TO LOSE and EVERYTHING TO GAIN. Click this link to learn how you can take control of your finances: Becoming Your Own Banker


Yours to count on,
Barry Page, RFC
Registered Financial Consultant
Legacy Insurance Agency, PLLC
www.legacyinsuranceagency.com 

Becoming Your Own Banker

"Banking is the most important business in the world."
~R. Nelson Nash, Bestselling Author of Becoming Your Own Banker 

Learn what banks know. Discover the Infinite Banking Concept by attending an educational workshop with Nelson Nash, author of the bestselling book, Becoming Your Own Banker, in Ocean Springs, MS on September 15th-16th.  

You can register online for this once in a lifetime event here:  

Becoming Your Own Banker Workshop Registration

Nelson Nash

By utilizing the Infinite Banking Concept, one can in essence, create their own private banking system, never having to depend on traditional banks or the government for money or financing again. You can finance your cars, kids education, and even business equipment through your own bank.

Becoming Your Own Banker

To understand privatized banking one must first understand how money flows. Our money flows through our lives and throughout the world, just as water flows through our bodies and the oceans. The ability to control this flow of money is the key to understanding how to create a private bank.

Lifetime Bank - Privatized Banking from Legacy Insurance Agency

You can create your own system for financing all of your purchases over your lifetime, and then pass it on to your heirs and family.

Click the link below to register online now, seating is limited::
Becoming Your Own Banker Workshop Registration

This event will change your life, I hope to see you there.
Barry Page, RFC
Infinite Banking Coach

Take Control of Your Finances and Avoid the Government Chaos!

Take Control of Your Finances and Avoid the Government Chaos!

Our government is out of ideas... and chaos is taking control. In 2006 they didn't see the crisis coming? Then in 2008 they couldn't understand it, so they threw money at the problem. Then from 2009-2011 more bailouts and wreckless spending still haven't worked.

Meanwhile, American households knew that the problem was too much debt. Still, they have the gall to ask for more money and to raise the debt ceiling. The FED chief (Ben Bernanke of The Federal Reserve) claims that the money we've spent was "invested" and we are receiving a return on our investment. Yet, after over $7 TRILLION in losses, housing prices continue to fall, unemployment continues to rise, and new graduates can't get a job. You would think "they" would get it by now, more debt is not the answer.

Take a look at our current debt: http://usdebtclock.org Do you see any return?

While our Government can not solve their debt problems, you can! You don't have to depend on the government and the financial institutions. By taking responsibility for your financial decisions, you can create your own system of finance. One that will free you from the dependency of the government. Take the time to educate yourself and take control of your finances today by Becoming Your Own Banker. 

Politicians are wasting your money and they want more! The reason that defaulting on our debt would cause problems is because we are in debt in the first place!!! Think about it... They are warning us that it would be harder for Americans to borrow money if we defaulted. Why? The FED and banks have BILLIONS of FIAT money sitting in vaults and interest rates are at the lowest points in history. What do you think the problem is now?

The very reason we are in this mess in the first place is because of DEBT, over leveraging and eased lending practices. This causes false hope and INFLATION. And, if you haven't felt it yet, it's coming. Government needs to be smaller and we need to abolish the FED. We need to take control of our finances and STOP being dependent on the government and the financial institutions.

Depending on where you went to school, you probably learned about economics from a Keynesian perspective. This is exactly what our government is doing now, trying to spend our way out of an economic problem. Contrary to this belief, free markets should be allowed to exist, and money creation out of thin air should not.

Austrian Economics is an entirely different approach that dissents from the mainstream on method, theory, and policy. It views economic actors as unique, conscious, and freely choosing individuals, not as undifferentiated data to be manipulated mathematically or politically.

Rooted in the tradition of Carl Menger and Ludwig von Mises, as well as Murray Rothbard and F.A. Hayek, the Austrian approach offers a rigorous and logical approach to economics that gives free markets their due and takes full account of the reality of human choice.

You can learn more about Austrian Economics and sit in on live classes via the web, absolutely free of charge from the Mises University. Just click this link: Austrian Economics Taught Here.

This should give you plenty to think about, and hopefully you will see the light at the end of the tunnel. Our country's current problems are rooted in debt and overspending. More government control of our financial decisions and more spending are not the answers. You do not have to depend on politicians to solve your financial problems. Just take a look at their records and you will understand why. Take action today!

Until next time,
Take Control of Your Finances!
Barry Page

Barry Page is recognized as a leading expert on life insurance and private banking. He is a Registered Financial Consultant and independent life insurance agent who helps clients with tax advantaged investment alternatives. He specializes in showing families how to protect their assets, income and lives utilizing a macro-financial approach to planning.

He has created a service that caters to families and business owners that are frustrated with the risks involved with the stock market, but still want competitive returns. His specialized knowledge and services help consumers find alternatives to traditional investing and the stock market that not only safely protect their savings, but also provide tax advantages.
His business is based in Ocean Springs, MS and he services clients throughout the Southeast. He can be reached here: http://legacyinsuranceagency.com/contact.html

What Are You Worth? Reevaluating Your Human Life Value

How To Live a Life of Abundance
by Investing in Your Human Life Value

Today is the perfect day for me to post this blog on human life value, as it is my birthday. As we grow older we tend to appreciate our health and others more, and I want to share with you what I have learned. Fortunately, I have been blessed beyond my expectations with spiritual, physical and material gifts. In reading this I’d like you to consider your worth and the impact you have on others lives.

Throughout our lives we are told that financial success and material worth is what we should strive for. We’re told that we should invest for the long-term and put our money into the stock market. When you follow this financial advice you are devaluing your importance as a person and decreasing your worth as a human being by basing your beliefs on an economic model that is dependent on opinion.

“The real problem is we don't have any financial education in our schools.” Robert Kiyosaki

When you increase your knowledge and change your life. You can increase your financial IQ by subscribing and reading my free newsletter, Financial Intelligence sm. Click on this link to subscribe: http://legacyinsuranceagency.com/financialintelligence/index.html

The accumulation theory of compounding and the concept of dollar-cost-averaging are the basis for traditional financial planning and have been ingrained into our minds since we were children. These flawed methods of personal economics focus on the accumulation of wealth by consistently contributing to an account and compounding the interest earned over time. When we subject ourselves to this form of thinking we are limiting our human life value.

Over time fallacies and falsehoods develop into myths. Falsehoods developed and perpetuated by so called “financial gurus” limit our productivity and stifle our human life value. Myths destroy our confidence by instilling our minds with doubt and fear. 

You have probably heard the following fallacies and myths:
1. You’re in it for the long-haul.
2. High-Risk = High Returns.
3. The market has averaged 10-12% over time.
4. Work hard, go to college and get a good job.
5. Save money, get out of debt, invest for the long-term and diversify.
6. When you retire you’ll be in a lower tax bracket.
7. When you retire you won’t need insurance.

“Myths which are believed in tend to become true.” ~George Orwell

What makes theses myths so destructive is that they are based on a scarcity mindset and are perpetuated from generation to generation. When we embrace the scarcity mindset we are buying into the belief that our resources are limited. Scarcity fails to account for self-worth and further limits our opportunity for ownership and growth.

“Try not to become a man of success but rather to become a man of value.” ~Albert Einstein

In order to achieve our maximum potential we must breakthrough the boundaries of traditional thinking and challenge our minds to live a life of abundance. An abundant life is developed through action and practicing our talents and abilities. Action is created with thoughts produced in our minds based on our knowledge. As we increase our knowledge we increase our abilities and we are free to make our own choices.

When you live a life of abundance you follow your soul purpose and increase your human life value. You are free to focus on God’s work and your personal passions without the limits and confines of a scarcity mindset. You create value in others by sharing your knowledge and developing their abilities. You live a life of prosperity.

God has blessed us with an abundant supply of spiritual and material things. Our challenge is to utilize these blessings to honor God and fulfill our purpose as Christians.

For whosoever hath, to him shall be given, and he shall have more abundance: but whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away even that he hath. Matthew 13:12

Further reducing our value is people, the media continues to bombard our lives with stories that limit our thinking and convince us that we live in a Darwinistic society. We are told that only the fittest will survive, and that we have to fight for ourselves by struggling to survive and taking from others. Relating this to finance, consider how this theory of economics places you in a position of dependency where we are all pursuing the same finite piece of the pie. Subconsciously we believe that for us to have more, someone else has to have less.

To understand how the scarcity mindset affects our ability we should examine these myths and their origins.

“You’re in it for the long -haul.” –  Today’s financial advisers have to convince their clients to invest with them over a long period of time or they could lose their fees and commissions. Correspondingly financial institutions would lose the ability to make money with our money. Where does this method of thought come from? We are told that over time our investments will produce a return, just as the markets have done. The problem with this myth is that it based on a pre-conceived thought of retirement and fails to address the fact that the investor has no control over the market. If the market is down during their period of period of retirement, the investor must wait for the market to return before withdrawing their funds.  The damage is when we lock our money up and have to wait until retirement to enjoy the benefits our investments, we give up the ability to live a life of abundance now.

“High Risks = High Returns.” – Certainly with all investments there may an element of risk involved. However, taking on more risk does not constitute a higher return. Somehow, this correlation between risk and return has been taught over and over until most of us believe it to be true. When meeting with a traditional financial planner, inevitably a risk tolerance questionnaire will have to be completed. This further promotes the thought that in order to get higher returns, we must take more risk. So, they are telling us that in order to win, we must be willing to lose! The financial institutions have shifted the risk from themselves to us. They have convinced us to believe that financial success is a matter of gambling. Contrarily, the most successful investors take little risk at all. When we follow this advice we limit our potential and avoid the responsibility of making investment decisions.

“The market has averaged 10-12% over time.” – This is almost laughable when you understand how financial professionals are allowed to legally hoodwink investors into believing this lie. If you look at any of the major markets, they may have averaged 6% to 9% since their inceptions, however the myth becomes more evident when you dig a little deeper. First, the small disclosure in your prospectus, “past performance may not be indicative of future results” is nothing more than an insurance clause for the financial institutions. As a matter of fact, advisers use this clause to joke about the prospect of much larger returns. Second, no mention is ever given to the difference between “average” and “actual”. Just because a stock, fund or index averaged an amount that does not mean that the return was that amount. And, that’s before about fees, taxes and inflation.

This is an example of how advisers legally get away with showing you average returns. But, you have to ask yourself, did you realize the gain? Here’s a chart of the last 11 year history of the DOW:

Work hard, go to college and get a good job. – Nowadays it’s almost a given that you have to graduate college to get a good job. But, who says you have to get a job? When you look at the time it takes to go to college and the loss of income over that time, it doesn’t always make sense. What if you have the qualities of an entrepreneur and the ability to create value in others? Should you stifle this talent and focus on your education? I’m not suggesting that anyone forgo their education, quite the contrary. I’m only suggesting that we evaluate our strengths and follow our soul purpose in life.

Save money, get out of debt, invest for the long-term and diversify. – Over the past 10 years people who have followed this advice have seen their financial worth depreciate and evaporate into the abyss of the stock market. Trillions of dollars were lost in 2000 and in 2008 to normal people who invested their life savings into the stock markets. Diversification to most people is buying a mutual fund through their 401k at work. The truth is that when you follow this advice you are increasing the risk in your financial future.

“Diversification is required when investors do not understand what they are doing.” Warren Buffett

When you retire you’ll be in a lower tax bracket. – Do you believe this? If you do, you’re saying that you are going to be poor. Inflation is eroding your money faster than you can save it and your health is declining while you are getting older. Let’s examine this further, say you are making $100,000 per year, and you have 20 years until retirement when you’ll be 67. This is the time that the Social Security says you can retire to get your full benefit (insert laughter). Over your working years you save $1,000,000 into your 401k. Now you are faced with choices on how you will spend that money. Traditional planning says you can spend 4% per year without fear of running out of money. If you are making $100,000 per year now, could you possibly live on $40,000? Oh, I forgot to mention that after inflation, it will take $ to spend like $100,000 does now. What does retirement mean to you anyway? Will you want to take those vacations you’ve been putting off? Will you want to do things for your kids and grandkids? Back to the taxes and your bracket, if you follow traditional advice, when you retire your house will be paid for and the kids will be grown. So, you want have those tax deductions, what tax deductions will you have in the future? Do you think taxes are going up or down? Here’s a chart showing the history of taxes:

History of the Marginal Tax

When you retire you won’t need insurance. – This is malpractice! Any agent or adviser that tells you this should lose their license. You may not need it, but if you have it you’ll want it, and you’ll be glad if you do.  At retirement you are more vulnerable than ever to loss. And, the fact is if you want it you may not qualify for it medically. There is no such thing as “self insurance”. In order for you to fully self insure, you will have to the value of your asset in liquid cash in the event of a loss. Will you have that? If you do and you have a loss, what will you have then?

As you can see these myths can destroy your ability to create wealth and your value as a person. Instead when you follow your soul purpose and focus on creating value in yourself and others you can have a life filled with abundance prosperity.

Your human life value as described by the late Solomon Huebner is the capitalized monetary worth of the earning capacity resulting from the economic forces that are incorporated within our being: namely, our character and health, our education, training, and experience, our personality and industry, our creative power, and our driving force to realize the economic images of the mind.

“Time And health are two precious assets that we don't recognize and appreciate until they have been depleted.” ~Denis Waitley

In closing, I’d like to encourage you take a personal inventory by asking you a few questions. Ask yourself what’s really important to you? Are you protecting the things that matter the most? When you make investments, consider if you are investing in yourself as a person. Will these investments increase your value? Are you expanding your knowledge? What are you reading and whom are you listening to?

"You are the same today as you will be in five years except for two things: the people you meet and the books you read." ~Charlie 'Tremendous' Jones 

Until next time, live a life of abundance!
Barry Page, RFC
Registered Financial Consultant
Licensed Life Insurance Agent
www.legacyinsuranceagency.com

Barry Page, RFC is recognized as a leading expert on life insurance and private banking. He is a Registered Financial Consultant and independent life insurance agent who helps clients with tax advantaged investment alternatives. He specializes in showing families how to protect their assets, income and lives utilizing a macro-financial approach to planning.

His specialized knowledge and services help consumers find alternatives to traditional investing and the stock market that not only safely protects their savings, but also provide tax advantages. His business is based in Ocean Springs, Mississippi and he services clients throughout the Southeast. 

He can be reached here:
http://legacyinsuranceagency.com/contact.html 

or here:
http://pma101.com

7 Must Know Financial Tips for the Holidays

7 Must Know Financial Tips for the Holidays

How To Survive Holiday Shopping and Prosper in the New Year

Holiday shopping is in full swing and even started early this year, but it doesn’t have to be a financial disaster for you. Retailers have been marking down old products and ushering in new ones to convince you to spend your hard earned cash. And, while most Americans have slowed down their spending over the past year, the holidays will unfortunately rid many of them of their savings and cause them to plunge into the financial abyss.

Financing and credit cards only add to the problem. Have you noticed that the credit card offers, that had stopped a year ago, are now coming in droves? You can finance, transfer and live completely in debt! But, you don’t have to fall for these clever financing schemes. Take control of your finances and shop on your terms.

Even the television networks are pulling out all the stops to get you to spend your money without thought. Over the Thanksgiving holiday a morning show had a song and dance skit with the entire production staff dancing and singing. The theme song echoed “Do it - let’s go out and spend…” You have to be kidding me! Forget Christmas and the spirit of giving… let’s spend our way to happiness.

We should all take a step back and remember what really makes us happy, the love of family and friends. Let’s be grateful for what we have, and give our love. Spending our money on unneeded items and useless toys that accumulate dust will never fulfill our true desires.

Most people don’t think twice when acting on an offer and paying $100 month for a new plasma TV, but they break out in hives when asked to save $100 month. What’s wrong with this picture?

So, what can you do? I’ve put together 7 must know financial tips for the holidays. A how to guide for surviving holiday shopping.

1. Make a spending budget and stick to it.
2. Never buy anything that you didn’t plan on.

3. Use cash and debit cards, limiting your use of credit.

4. Shop online for sales and time your purchases.

5. Remind yourself of the burden of debt and focus on the benefits of saving.

6. Shop early and avoid last-minute shopping.

7. Spend your time, not your money, with family and friends.

Let’s take a look at what can happen:

You go to the local big box store to buy some toys for the kids. While you’re there you notice the plasma TV’s are finally coming down to an affordable price and start thinking that maybe this is your chance to get the kids off the living room TV. You can nab the new 50” High Definition TV with all the bells and whistles for about $100 month for 2 years. Or, maybe it’s a new laptop or cell phone with wireless, blah, blah, blah…. Whatever it is, the $100 month is just the beginning, because you’ll need the HD cable or the unlimited data plan to go with your new purchase. And, don’t forget the wasted hours getting it all to work and spent watching useless shows and searching the social networks.

A better picture:

You make a list and check it twice, shopping online to find the best deals. You only pickup the must have toys while shopping and decide to teach the kids some fiscal responsibility and financial stewardship. You take them to see the Grandparents and have them make something special for them. You take a family picture or create an album of the kids growing up. This is so much easier now than when you were growing up because of the digital camera you bought last year. Result, they learn the true meaning of Christmas by giving, and they feel good knowing they took part in something special.

You then take the $100 month that would have been spent on the television and save that money. You treat this money with the same respect that you would the payment on the new techno gadget, forming a habit of saving. You feel good that you have been responsible with your money and you have taught the kids stewardship. After the same 2 years you haven’t really missed anything, all the games and shows have been available via your current setup or online. Gadget prices continue to fall, and you can get an even better deal when it’s on your schedule.

Follow these financial tips and you can prosper in the New Year. Instead of having debt, you can have savings. You’ll feel better about yourself and you’ll set an example for your family.

Have a great holiday shopping season and prosper in the New Year!

5 Ways to Use Your Life Insurance While You’re Alive

5 Ways to Use Your Life Insurance While You’re Alive
How to finance all of your purchases through you’re own bank

How would you like to use your life insurance while you’re alive? What if you could finance all of your major purchases through your own bank, just as you would with a traditional bank? You can! I’ve put together a list of my top 5 favorite uses of life insurance that you can start using today.

Because of misinformation in the marketplace, most people believe that they should own the cheapest life insurance available. If you follow this advice, you will miss out on life insurance’s most valuable uses. Term insurance provides a death benefit to your heirs, but what about you? If setup correctly, one of the benefits of permanent life insurance is that it allows tax free access to capital while you’re alive. So, if you understand how it works, you are better off owning the most expensive life insurance available. In other words, typically the more you put in, the more benefits you will enjoy.

When you think about it there are 3 to 5 major expenditures that most people make over their lifetimes. So, I thought I would show you how you can take these 5 expenditures and finance them through your life insurance policies. Yes, you may want multiple policies.

1. Automobile Purchases

2. Business Equipment

3. Family Home

4. College Education

5. Funding Retirement

1. Automobile Purchases
Most of us drive and purchase new cars every 4-5 years. Let’s take an automobile that would cost say $30,000 and finance it for 48 months at 6% interest and include an inflation rate of 3% and taxes of 10%. If you traded the cars in, over the course of your lifetime (48 years/12 cars), your adjusted cost after trade and sales tax would be $85,275. However, the lost opportunity costs, had you been able to earn 6% interest on that same money, would be $343,405! What if you could finance all of your automobile purchases through your policy and recapture the costs? You can!

2. Business Equipment
If you plan to start or grow any business venture, you will need access to capital and business equipment. What if you could finance the equipment yourself and/or start your own leasing company without depending on traditional banks? You can! You may also be able to take additional tax benefits when paying interest.

3. Family Home
Assuming your family is growing are you decide to purchase a second home, what if you could finance it through your life policy? You can! All you have to do is capitalize the policy and purchase the home outright through your policy or start paying your traditional mortgage off early using your policy as your own bank.

4. College Education
Without a doubt, funding a child’s college education is one of the main concerns of parents today. While college tuition costs are outpacing inflation, most college savings plans have lost money. What if you could pay for your child’s college and recapture the money to use for your retirement? You can!

5. Funding Retirement
If you ask retirees today what their biggest concern is, most will answer outliving their money. When depending on government programs and a pension, this can be a problem. Maybe that’s why this demographic is one of the largest purchasers of permanent life insurance today. What if you could supplement or fund your retirement completely using your life insurance policy? You can! Having a permanent life policy at retirement allows you to spend your other assets down completely, without the concern of running out of money or leaving your heirs with nothing. And, retirees will appreciate the ability to have access to capital for business ventures and long term care if needed.

So, there you have it, 5 ways to use your life insurance while you’re alive! But, don’t take my word for it, ask any of the hundreds of thousand of Americans who are enjoying the benefits of owning permanent life insurance. The naysayers don't own permanent life insurance and don't know.

You owe to yourself and your family to explore permanent life insurance. You don’t have to get caught up in all the hype of Wall Street, or the misinformation from the media and so called, "financial gurus". And, you don’t have to take unnecessary risks with your money. Life insurance has been around for hundreds of years and has proven to be sound and stable. Maybe that’s why banks own it as their tier 1 capital.

I’d like to recommend a book for you to read, Becoming Your Own Banker by R. Nelson Nash. This book outlines exactly how you can utilize life insurance to finance all of your purchases over your lifetime. If you practice the principles outlined in this book, it will literally change your and your family’s lives forever. You can learn more about the Infinite Banking Concept and purchase the book at http://www.infinitebanking.org/

Free yourself from financial slavery and stop depending on the government and financial institutions. You’ll be glad you did.

Until next time,
Barry Page, RFC
http://legacyinsuranceagency.com/

Barry Page, RFC is recognized as a leading expert on life insurance and private banking. He is a Registered Financial Consultant and independent life insurance agent who helps clients with tax advantaged investment alternatives. He specializes in showing families how to protect their assets, income and lives utilizing a macro-financial approach to planning.

His specialized knowledge and services help consumers find alternatives to traditional investing and the stock market that not only safely protects their savings, but also provide tax advantages. His business is based in Ocean Springs, Mississippi and he services clients throughout the Southeast. He can be reached here: http://legacyinsuranceagency.com/contact.html

FOX News Interviews Ron Paul and Judge Napolitano on the Federal Reserve

Until next time,
Barry Page, RFC

Barry Page, RFC is recognized as a leading expert on life insurance and private banking. He is a Registered Financial Consultant and independent life insurance agent who helps clients with tax advantaged investment alternatives. He specializes in showing families how to protect their assets, income and lives utilizing a macro-financial approach to planning.

His specialized knowledge and services help consumers find alternatives to traditional investing and the stock market that not only safely protects their savings, but also provide tax advantages. His business is based in Ocean Springs, Mississippi and he services clients throughout the Southeast. He can be reached here: http://legacyinsuranceagency.com/contact.html