There is a Nordic saying that goes, “If you don’t pick a port, you will end up on the rocks.” As on the ocean, so it is with financial planning. Becoming clear on your goals and objectives is the “secret sauce” to planning.

Jesus was very clear on his goals and objectives.

Mark 1:32-39

That evening after sunset the people brought to Jesus all the sick and demon-possessed. The whole town gathered at the door, and Jesus healed many who had various diseases. He also drove out many demons, but he would not let the demons speak because they knew who he was.

Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. Simon and his companions went to look for him, and when they found him, they exclaimed: “Everyone is looking for you!”

Jesus replied, “Let us go somewhere else—to the nearby villages—so I can preach there also. That is why I have come.” So he traveled throughout Galilee, preaching in their synagogues and driving out demons.

It is easy to get caught up in the circumstances of life and demands of others, and if Jesus was not clear on his goals and objectives he might have stayed and healed people for a much longer time. However, He was clear that the goal was to preach the good news in other villages as well.

How about you? Have you clearly articulated the goals and objectives for your family? If so, the planning becomes much easier because now we have a “bullseye” to focus on and there are only certain tools and techniques that would apply to your situation.

Some of you may be thinking, “Well, I think I know how I would define our goals and objectives, but what about my spouse?” With couples, we often find there are two CEOs: the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Emotional Officer. Most likely the two have never taken the time to come to consensus when it comes to goals and objectives. It is very helpful to have a faciliator guide your family through this conversation. We have developed a Life on Purpose Questionnaire that we take families through in a retrerat setting. Please contact us if you would like more information on this.