What is life planning?

The Kinder Institute trains and coaches financial advisers worldwide in a method we call financial Life Planning. This method is based on the premise that advisers should first discover a client’s most essential goals in life before formulating a financial plan, so a client’s finances fully support those goals.

This may sound elementary but few of us spontaneously undertake a thoughtful inquiry into our deepest and most enduring values and objectives. Traditionally financial advisors have focused on the numbers—budgeting, investments, taxes, or insurance--without exploring the broader context. They rarely ask questions like:

“If you had more time or money, what would you do?” “What do you want to accomplish or attain so you will feel that you’ve had a life well-lived?” “What moves, touches, or inspires you?”

Our advisors are trained to ask such questions and, just as important, listen to your answers. They therefore become your partner in clarifying and achieving your most meaningful and deeply felt aspirations.

We call it Life Planning because what’sreally important isn’t your money, it’s your life.