Financial Architects Inc. - February 2022

Financial Architects Inc. - February 2022

FEBRUARY 2022

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Even in the Face of Failure NICK SHARES TIPS ON SELF-WORTH

Hey newsletter friends! I’m Nick, and I joined Financial Architects in 2011. My role is to guide clients through a Macro-Financial Planning Process that helps identify cash flow and makes sure it’s used more productively. I began my financial career straight out of college, and today, I will be sharing my success secret to gaining self-worth and how you can accomplish your goals. After graduating from Central Michigan University, I was excited to put my knowledge to the test and help people with their financial needs. In college, I learned all the textbook knowledge of financial planning such as retirement, stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. However, the most important thing I learned during this journey is that you need excellent communication skills. You can be an investment guru, but you also need people skills — it plays a significant role. Most people graduate in their 20s, and it can be challenging to jump into a career and ask people in their 40s and 50s to trust you with their hard-earned net worth. It’s tough for clients to have faith in a kid right out of school. It took a lot of patience and determination to get my clients to overlook my youth and view me as a professional and give me a chance to manage their assets. My youth could’ve hindered me if I allowed it to. But I decided to use it as a benefit at the beginning of my career. I understood that I lacked experience, but my confidence in myself, professionalism, and determination

made up for that — this was my secret to success. Since people are intuitive, how you view yourself can determine how others see you. For example, if you view yourself as a professional and as the best at what you do, then clients and the people around you will also view you that way. If you have insecurities and are not confident in your abilities, then others will see that, too. Viewing yourself positively and having confidence in yourself can also help you reach your goals. This is because the mindset you have impacts the actions you take. The fear of failing can make people question their abilities and their goals. However, if you believe in yourself and your abilities, you will have more confidence about reaching your goals. But failure is a part of life; if you’re not failing, you’re not growing as an individual. If you learn something from your setbacks and become stronger because of it, it’s not a failure. This is because you gained knowledge from that experience.

focusing on how far you have to go to reach your goals, look at how far you’ve come. Even if you have setbacks, keep pushing forward. At Financial Architects, I view all of my clients as my friends. It is so much fun to work with and interact with people I like and enjoy spending time with! I truly look forward to check-in meetings with my clients to catch up and see what is new in their lives. The discussion will always involve finances and investment updates, but I truly value my personal relationships with each of my clients, and they make my job rewarding and enjoyable. I am so thankful to have my family along on my journey. My wife Diana, and my two awesome children, Leo and Evana, bring me so much joy and motivation. They are my “why” and mean the world to me!

“Since people are intuitive, how you view yourself can determine how others see you.”

It’s essential to keep in mind the big picture of your goals and strive to meet them. With any decision you make, be sure it aligns with your big-picture outcome. Ask yourself if this short-term decision will benefit you and direct you to your main goals. Instead of

–Nick Sanchez

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LOVE REALLY CAN BE A DRUG The Power of Love

EYE ON THE BALL Book Reviews With Chris Ball

A big part of my journey to becoming a Financial Architect is my love of economics. I am fascinated by economic theory and how it shapes the world around us. All of our individual decisions around money impact our own personal economy as a whole. ‘BASIC ECONOMICS’ BY THOMAS SOWELL

It’s crazy to think that being head over heels, madly in love with someone can benefit your body in the same way that broccoli can, but it’s true! Science has proven that being in love comes with myriad health benefits. Fewer colds and natural pain control? Yes, please! Love triggers the “feel good” hormone, dopamine. When you first fall in love — and the butterflies are flying uncontrollably — dopamine is at very high levels, and mentally, you’re happy, healthy, and positive. As the relationship matures, oxytocin, also known as the bonding hormone, blends with dopamine and reduces stress. We all know that stress can lead to a number of health complications, so, the less stress, the better! New research has found that just being around someone you love can act as a natural pain reliever. Research has also determined that married people complain less about headaches and back pain. When your mind is happy, your immune system is stronger, making you less prone to getting a cold or stomach bug. Some research has even shown that happily married couples live longer than those who are not happily married. The hormone vasopressin helps to control your blood pressure. Being in love releases vasopressin into your body, keeping your blood pressure at a healthy level. Both your heart and lungs are also impacted by the love you have for another. If you aren’t in love, you can still reap the benefits through a strong and healthy social support system. When you have friends who bring you joy and happiness, even just a hug may help to release positive hormones and keep your health on track. Take time to invest in positive relationships to keep your heart and body healthy and happy, both literally and figuratively.

One of my favorite authors is Thomas Sowell. I have read the majority of his books and find him to be one of the great thinkers of our time. He is not afraid to challenge conventional beliefs on economics and the social impact of many economic policies. My introduction to Sowell was through his classic work, “Basic Economics.” Sowell reminds us right away that economics is ultimately about scarcity. We live in a world of unlimited wants and limited resources. Over a lifetime, we make countless decisions on how we use those resources. Those decisions require trade-offs. Sowell defines it this way: “Economics is the study of scarce resources that have alternative uses.” Spending our money on one thing means we’re not able to use it on something else. Most of us learned this very early in life. When my grandmother gave me $5, did I spend it on an action figure or new books? Did I save it for later to buy a larger item? As we get older, these principles never go away. The amount in question certainly changes, along with its impact on our future. These principles impact all aspects of our lives. Many of our decisions go beyond simple dollars and cents. Our time and energy are scarce. How will we use them? Choosing hobbies, education, and a career involves trade-offs. Recently, we’ve seen the unfortunate side of these principles in health care. Scarce resources try to battle a pandemic and address the myriad health issues people face on a daily basis. It’s a classic economic dilemma. Sowell covers the role of prices, markets, and costs across various economic systems. How does supply and demand compare to markets with price controls? What’s the difference between scarcity and shortages? These and many questions are answered in a simple, informative fashion. Understanding these principles is key to our own economic well-being as we strive to enjoy today and plan for tomorrow.

So, what are you waiting for? Let the love flow!

The information contained in this newsletter is derived from sources believed to be accurate. You should discuss any legal, tax, or financial matters with the appropriate professional. Neither the information presented nor any opinion expressed constitutes a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Registered Representatives offer Securities through The O.N. Equity Sales Company, Member FINRA/SIPC (www.FINRA.org/ and www.SIPC.org). Investment Advisory Services offered through O.N. Investment Management Company and FAI Advisors, Inc., Financial Architects, Inc., FAI Advisors, Inc. is not a subsidiary or affiliate of The O.N. Equity Sales Company or O.N. Investment Management Company. We have representatives currently registered in the following states: AL, AZ, CA, CO, DC, FL, GA, IL, IN, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, NC, NH, NV, NY, OH, OR, PA, SC, TX, VA, WA, and WI.

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Chat With a Client Brian Eady HOW DID YOU GET INVOLVED WITH FINANCIAL ARCHITECTS? I met Jim Linenger and Chavez Vincent through a previous employer. There had been a long-standing relationship between Financial Architects and the partners of the firm. When my previous employer grew large enough to offer 401(k) benefits, Jim and Chavez were charged with managing it. Shortly after, my wife and I decided we needed a little more financial guidance as we grew in our careers and started our family. Chavez has been our guy ever since, and we’re happy to have him as a guide and family friend.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR JOBS OR BUSINESSES AND WHAT YOU DO. I’ve been practicing architecture for the better part of 15 years, working on an array of commercial and residential projects. During that time, I’ve been very fortunate to be employed by two great firms and surrounded by strong mentors who helped

me grow the experience needed to be a successful architect. At my previous stop, I worked my way into roles as senior architect and technical director, and I was responsible for leading key projects, managing technical execution, and coaching the next generation of architects.

In July 2021, I took a chance on myself and used that experience to start my own practice: Brian Eady Architects. Entrepreneurship was never part of the original plan. However, I had been doing some work on the side for a couple years, and it had escalated to a point where I needed to decide how I wanted to move my career forward. Market conditions and the support from my family and network told me the time was right. Chavez and Financial Architects were also part of the discussion. I don’t know that I would have been able to take the chance without their prior guidance. Since making the move, it’s been equal parts exciting and stressful, but the hard work is paying off. Business has been steady, and I’ve had many opportunities to meet new people and work more directly on projects with great clients. I’ve also gotten the chance to reconnect with friends and colleagues as I work to broaden my network. As we rekindle those relationships, positivity has followed. It feels good to be a small-business owner, and I like being in a position where I can positively impact my community and the lives of my clients more directly. The most humbling part has been the volume of support from folks who have been in this seat offering guidance and encouragement, hoping to see someone else succeed.

Take a Break

WHAT ARE YOU MOST LOOKING FORWARD TO IN 2022? My focus for the back end of 2021 has been building Brian Eady Architects. I’m hoping the labors of that effort will continue to be rewarded in 2022 through new relationships, new projects, and growth. How the pandemic progresses will likely impact that to a degree. Labor and materials availability are impacting how projects develop and proceed, so here’s hoping for some progress in that area as well. I’m also looking forward to getting back into a better rhythm with my family. My wife has been so patient and supportive as we’ve navigated this new endeavor, all while helping raise our two rapidly growing boys during a pandemic. Now that we have a bit of footing, maybe things can slow down just a hair.

Brian Eady, AIA, LEED AP Principal Brian Eady Architects [email protected] 586-933-3010

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Inside This Issue 1 | How You View Yourself Makes a Huge Difference

2 | Health Benefits of Being in Love

2 | A Review of ‘Basic Economics’

3 | A Chat With Brian Eady

3 | Take a Break

4 | Include Mother Nature in Your Next Date

You, Me, and the Great Outdoors 3 Outside Date Night Ideas Did your significant other leave it up to you to come up with a romantic date idea this Valentine’s Day? Luckily for you,

you can easily see the stars, take advantage of the peaceful privacy with your loved one. Maybe you’ll spot a shooting star you can wish upon while you’re out there!

there are tons of date activities that are easy and affordable for you to enjoy with Mother Nature. While the possibilities are endless outside, here are three popular outdoor date ideas! WATCH THE SUNSET. Sunsets are intuitively romantic: The sun paints the sky in calming reds, pinks, and purples, creating a beautiful backdrop. While watching the sunset, you and your partner can have a romantic picnic with the sky in view. Or you can embrace the scenery with your other half and create memories you both will never forget. GO STARGAZING. If you live in the city, stargazing is a good chance to escape for the night and get away from the light pollution in the city. If you already live in a location where

HIT UP A DRIVE-IN MOVIE. If you’re looking for a way to be extra comfy while still sitting outside, a drive-in movie is the best destination! The best part about a drive-in is that you can view both new and old movies as well as bring your own snacks and drinks. If the weather permits and if you have a truck, you can load the bed with blankets and pillows and have a cozy night while watching a movie.

These date night ideas are perfect for Valentine’s Day, but they don’t have to be limited to just the holiday! You can also consider these for any date that you have with your significant other. Nothing brings couples closer like being together with nature.

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