Vol.14

I recently returned from a visit to Haiti as part of a team of local business and non-profit leaders associated with my church. Over the past five years, we’ve worked to forge a partnership with two influential, entrepreneurial-minded leaders in Haiti. One is a highly-effective and well-respected NGO director and the other is a very successful and well-respected businessman. Both of our partners have consistently demonstrated both strong character and a genuine love for the Haitian people. Together, we share the hope of creating and implementing new sustainable models that support changed lives for Haitians, through individual opportunities in leadership development, quality education, and economic development.

Sadly, the effects of the January 2010 earthquake are still visible. Progress has been painfully slow in rebuilding Haiti as a new, more stable and prosperous nation – as had been promised by leaders worldwide who pledged billions of dollars in financial support in the aftermath of the destruction.

I’ve personally found it emotionally difficult at times to witness the living conditions that so many Haitian people wake up to every morning. The election of a new government and recently renewed political unrest has hampered efforts to plan and rebuild. The catastrophe giving and subsequent relief efforts from around the globe that poured into Haiti after the earthquake certainly helped to save lives. But relief efforts have not matured into any kind of robust rebuilding effort. And as the giving recedes, Haiti remains a “welfare” nation, dependent upon the generosity and compassion of others to meet their basic needs. Can you imagine the feeling of powerlessness, frustration, and the loss of hope that must affect so many Haitians, who have endured this as their reality for so long?

Haiti is a nation of people who have few means to advance their own interests. I’ve learned through my associations there over these last five years that this is not because Haitians are unwilling to work or do not have ideas or skills. There’s simply no legitimate national economic system there to engage people and empower them to make products or provide services that create real wealth, allowing them to provide for themselves and their families.

There are a few exceptions to this bleak picture and I’ve been honored to befriend one of them – our above mentioned Haitian businessman partner who has successfully created an industry out of the farming of a high-demand commercial export product. The people who are involved in this supply chain are successful and self-supporting. Through a vibrant sharecropping network, many of these farmers own their land and enjoy the pride and independence of being self-employed business owners. They are participants in an economic model where wealth creation has replaced charitable welfare. My team and I have moments of great hope for Haiti’s future, as we see ventures like these in operation. Part of our vision is to persist in finding ways to thoughtfully replicate these sustainable models elsewhere in the country.

There are, no doubt, flaws in our own economic system here in the U.S. that have been and will likely continue to be exploited. But, given the choice as to whether our livelihood depends upon the largess of a benefactor or the work of our own hands, most any human being, Haitian or otherwise, is likely to choose the latter. We are so fortunate to have this valuable freedom and opportunity to choose. May we never take it for granted, and may we also open ourselves to doing what we can with what we have, strategically and impactfully, so that others who are stuck in a life like so many Haitians may have this same opportunity.

Peace,
Ron Ware

Vol.13

In my life and business, I’ve learned there is nothing more important than the ability to have a candid, mutually respectful conversation. You could say that this is an important part of our best relationships. If we are sincerely open to hearing, it is through conversation we can begin to learn another’s unique perspective, their personal story, hopes, fears, and even dreams. When we feel free to express our own thoughts and ideas, we allow others the chance to really know and understand us better. Honest conversations are not always easy but they are very often worthwhile. What’s more satisfying than ending a meeting by agreeing, “Now that was a good conversation.”

That’s why it’s so frustrating to see the men and women we elect to represent us in government matters demonstrate their inability to bridge party and political divides and engage in productive conversations about the critical issues that face our nation and the world.

If you listen to today’s political discourse, it seems there is no conversational middle ground – no starting point of consensus that can be used to begin a reasoned and practical discussion. And this is happening not only between political parties – but within them! How can constructive conversation and creative ideas move forward when polarizing positions are expressed in “gotcha” sound bites?

To me, the loud and discordant debate about taxes and spending is really a proxy discussion for the real issue: is our true strength as a nation resident in our government’s ability to fund programs and collect taxes or in our individual spirit of freedom, entrepreneurism, generosity, and responsibility? If it’s in the latter, as I believe, then our American spirit and strength to change this polarizing, “me first,” non-negotiable, and sometimes downright mean approach to moving our nation forward needs to start down a different path. This conversation needs to take place at the individual, family, and community level – not in Washington, DC.

I have experienced first-hand how universally appealing it is for people, no matter what their political or party orientation may be, to use their resources, unique capabilities, relationships, and influence to create some small measure of change that they personally care about in the world. That’s why I believe it’s time to begin a new conversation – a rich and challenging one about how each of us can use the “wealth” of our life (and this is most certainly about more than just money!) to enhance and strengthen our families, our communities, our country, and beyond.

Our life’s wealth is measured not only by assets or investments. It’s measured by who we are – the sum of our life experiences, relationships, values, passion, talents, and skills – and by what we do to improve the lives of others. There is a sleeping giant of personal and financial capacity to do more that matters in our nation. This resource, if unleashed, could repair our present and secure our future. This can only begin by acknowledging that change depends, not on others or on the government, but on me.

May I challenge all of us to consider this new approach? Let’s commit to engaging in real conversations about this in our personal circles of influence and in the larger public square – conversations based on mutual respect that value listening and reflection. Beyond this, let’s seriously pursue answers to a very important question – can I do more that matters to me with what I have? Because if the answer is yes, you would, wouldn’t you? Why wait for someone else?

Peace,
Ron

Vol.12

The AFC Championship game offered more than a few heart-stopping moments, particularly if you are, like I am, a Patriots fan. But no image more perfectly defined the passion that has driven the team this year than the moment after BenJarvus Green-Ellis scored in the second quarter and proudly pointed to the MHK patch on his uniform.

The jersey insignia is fixed over the heart of every Patriots player. It is a reminder that the team has dedicated this special season to the late Myra H. Kraft. The beloved wife of team owner Robert Kraft, Myra passed away in July after a courageous battle with cancer.

Myra was a devoted wife and mother, a well-known, deeply respected philanthropist, and an active volunteer. She also was a constant, loving, and encouraging presence to the Patriots players. As the season unfolded, it has been exciting to see the team overcome multiple obstacles, playing with determination, dedication, and passion.

Motivated in part by their affection and respect for Myra, the Patriots discovered their capacity as a team to do more than sports fans or analysts ever expected. They believed they could accomplish the goal every NFL team sets out to achieve – playing in the Super Bowl – and they did it.

Passion is an amazing motivator. When you believe that your life, your work, and your choices are focused on a higher purpose, you live and act with greater confidence. Results, beyond what we could have imagined, become real possibilities. It will be thrilling to watch the Patriots unleash their passion on Sunday. I’m not predicting a result; most sports commentators thought the Ravens were the superior team in the championship game. But more than one observer – stunned by the Ravens’ missed field goal – was tempted to agree with Bob Kraft that the Patriots had a special angel working on their behalf.

Through her untimely death, Myra’s personal legacy has become so evident this season. It has become second nature for the players to touch the MHK patch on the field and on the sidelines and honor her memory. Every time they do so, they are kindling their passion and renewing their purpose as a team.

Each member of the organization has lived with a greater purpose this season, and it’s been a privilege to see the impact of that individual and team dedication. Earning their way to Super Bowl XLVI is one result of the Patriots’ teamwork and passion. Another is the inspiring example they have given to all of us on Myra’s behalf: the power of a legacy to motivate and matter.

Let’s all take personal account of the impact of Myra’s legacy and challenge ourselves to live out a legacy that will motivate, inspire and provide passion and possibility to those people, causes and organizations who follow after us.

Peace,
Ron Ware

Among the most enduring images from World War II are Norman Rockwell’s illustrations of the “Four Freedoms” described by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1941. The “Freedom from Fear” expressed Roosevelt’s conviction that people throughout the world should be free from the threat of aggression by nations with superior armaments. Rockwell’s illustration shows a mother and father standing protectively over their sleeping children while news headlines scream of war.

Today’s economic uncertainty and global unease would be familiar to Roosevelt. His hope for freedom from fear touches a deep place in each of us. If we are uncertain about our future (financial or otherwise) or confused about what we should be doing now to achieve the best possible outcome for ourselves and our families, we may be filled with some degree of anxiety or fear. Or even if we do have a strategy for our future, we may have become apprehensive and may be looking for assurance that those future plans are sound.

In both instances, freedom – which engenders confidence about the future – comes from the willingness to confront the fear and apprehension through a candid and thoughtful analysis of the facts. Often, the reality of one’s financial circumstances and future opportunity are not nearly as dire as imagined. In fact, in many cases, the fear is entirely false and is blocking important decisions that could create a more enriching life and a more fulfilling legacy.

After years of working with individuals and families to create life and legacy plans that reflect their deepest values, we have observed how life-changing it can be when people experience freedom from fear. Their response is as if they had been imprisoned by their doubts and fears and have suddenly received a “get out of jail FREE” card.

New ideas and opportunities emerge. Old habits and thought patterns fall away. The confidence people have about their financial future carries over to many other areas of their lives. As they think deeply about their legacy and impact and discover greater capacity to support the people, causes and organizations they care about, they are empowered to do more that matters in their lives today.

Seeking and finding this freedom from fear is not always easy. It requires intention and commitment. When the jail door springs open, you still have to walk through. But the process can be transformational.

With such possibility available and beckoning, what first steps are you prepared to take in this new year?

Peace,

Ron Ware
 

The beginning of a new year is often regarded as a fresh opportunity to break old habits and create new and better ones. We determine to take action that will make our lives better and fuller in the days ahead. We want to improve our lives, relationships, and our planning.

At Wealth Impact Partners, we believe that the most productive relationships and plans allow for honest reflection and meaningful conversation. The opening banner of our website affirms this idea: The journey begins with conversation, reflection and understanding, bringing new possibility and purpose into view for your life and legacy.

That’s why Seth Godin’s recent observation that he is “often stunned by the lack of questions that adults are prepared to ask” struck a nerve with me.

Questions are indeed at the heart of true reflection and conversation. How else can we expect to understand ourselves or each other, if we do not go beyond surface thoughts or impressions to explore the deeper issues and concerns that motivate us?

Perhaps we’re reluctant to ask questions because we doubt or fear the answers. As a result, we can be robbed of the depth and richness that emerges from the kind of authentic reflection and conversation that enhances our relationships, our plans, and our lives.

What are the questions that will take us deeper? Here are just a few that we ask to help people better identify specifically what matters most to them: Who are the people most important to you? What values do you attempt to live by? Which values do you hope to instill into your children and grandchildren? What are you passionate about? What brings you joy? What makes you angry? What makes you sad? What do you hope to accomplish in life? How would you like to be remembered?

When people take the time necessary to reflect on questions like these – not just once, but over time – and when they begin building a plan around their various answers, they’re empowered to be more proactive and make decisions that more accurately reflect who they are and what they want to do.

Achieving such clarity about life and purpose is a compelling outcome, yet many people still hold back – restrained by that fear of questions. Let Seth’s words provoke you: “Is the weather the only thing you can think to ask about? A great question is one you can ask yourself, one that disturbs your status quo and scares you a little bit.”

If you’ve been hesitant to make decisions about your life plans, resolve to make this the year you use questions to go deeper in reflection and conversation. Resolve to affirm what matters most to you and then to do more about it.

Peace,

Ron Ware

“Leading by example” is a phrase we often think about from a business perspective. We expect that the best marketplace leaders will demonstrate, by example, the principles and values that set them apart as trustworthy and competent people that we are willing to follow.

But “leading by example” can also very obviously impact our families and communities, particularly the next generation in our lives. This is particularly true when it comes to demonstrating the values of leadership and responsibility through generosity and concern for others. The next generation seems open and interested in being helpful and empathetic, and has been willing to quickly adopt role models who inspire them.

As caring and engaged adults who are willing to step up and lead, perhaps more of our focus should be on looking for teachable moments that help point those we influence towards positive role models. As we know all too well, there are plenty of negative cultural forces and role models at work in the world around us.

Interestingly, the traditional idea of philanthropy is being expanded to include giving, serving, and acting for the common good through volunteer work and social action. For many of us, with rich life experiences, marketplace skills, substantial capabilities, and relationships, this idea resonates.

Within this broader definition of philanthropy, there are countless examples of young people who have been inspired by others’ examples, touched by a need they’ve observed, and then taken action boldly to create solutions. One undeniable reality is that when we can couple our maturity, wisdom and experience with the next generation’s energy and creativity - watch out – because the possibilities become somewhat boundless!

There are kids like Zach Bonner, who collected bottled water for Hurricane Charlie victims in 2005 and then, at age 12, walked from Florida to Los Angeles to raise money in support of agencies serving homeless children and youth. Or young teens Brittany and Robbie Bergquist, who were moved to help a U.S. soldier in Iraq pay his $8000 cell phone bill and launched a national effort to recycle used cell phones and use the proceeds to buy millions of prepaid phone cards for troops stationed overseas.

Many of today’s young and successful entrepreneurs – like Blake Mycoskie – have pioneered unique business models where meeting consumer demands while addressing the needs of poor children across the globe are compatible and complementary goals. Others, like Facebook creator Mark Zuckerberg – have chosen with intention to live modestly and use their wealth to benefit charitable causes and non-profit organizations.

As important as it is to be these positive role models to the ‘next generation’ in our lives, it is equally important that we demonstrate these philanthropic values in practical ways. Each time we are watched voluntarily offering our time, talent, and treasure to causes and organizations that matter to us, those around us get a chance to see a real life example they can appreciate and emulate. This can be an even more powerful and positive experience, when our children and family members are able to participate with us.

There is, within certain circles of philanthropy, a desire to gain status and power through giving. This seems such a shallow, self-serving, and sad perspective. The bigger, much more important motive is ‘paying it forward,’ not with gaining status as the goal, but with a vision for accepting personal responsibility and leading by example. This model helps slowly transform our society’s inherent tendency towards me and more into generosity and concern for others.

During this season, when we are so hopeful and desirous to bring joy to others, helping those around us to begin to discover their own philanthropic spirit is one of the most lasting and truly valuable gifts we can offer them.

Peace,

Ron Ware
 

It’s always inspiring to meet or learn about people who share our philosophy of “you can do more that matters.” Wealth Impact Partners has been blessed with so many clients and colleagues who are committed to releasing their time, talent, and treasure in support of causes and organizations that are doing important work and improving the condition of our community and our world. 

So I was interested to recently discover that the famous 16^th century Swiss theologian, John Calvin, long ago recognized how an unhealthy fear and an overly worrisome focus on the resources we’ll need for our future, can constrain us and keep us from our true potential for making an impact. In one of his many commentaries Calvin wrote: 

What makes us more close-handed than we ought to be is when we look too carefully, and too far forward, in contemplating the dangers that may occur—when we are excessively cautious and careful—when we calculate too narrowly what we will require during our whole life, or, in fine, how much we lose when the smallest portion is taken away. The man that depends upon the blessing of the Lord has his mind set free from these trammels and has, at the same time, his hands opened for beneficence. 

Regardless of our particular religious beliefs or faith traditions, Calvin so artfully puts forth in this text (through the somewhat archaic syntax and language) the inspiring idea that when we are able to find real clarity and confidence about our future, we become freed up to be less “close-handed” and instead, are empowered and emboldened - to open our hands with greater responsibility, leadership and generosity – for the benefit of others.  

In these difficult economic times, charitable and non-profit human service organizations are being pressed as never before. Deep cuts in state and local funding sources have reduced their budgets, thus limiting the services they can provide to the unemployed, the hungry, and the homeless, whose numbers are rising every day.  It has never been more critical for these agencies to find new means for sustaining their good work.  

This is where each of us can make a significant difference and help organizations succeed and thrive. Our passion is to help individuals and families realize their true capacity to “do more” today and in the future, so they can better support and engage with the causes and organizations they care about most.  

The holiday season is a time of year when generosity seems to come more naturally to people. And when we see the impact that generosity has on others, especially children, we often think, “Why can’t it be like this all through the year?” 

Perhaps it can be, if only we take the time to think differently, plan better, and pursue this financial freedom and greater generosity for ourselves and our families. That’s how real life and legacy begin.

In our experience, many people who have achieved financial success have also come to realize that wealth accumulation, in itself, does not provide the satisfaction, meaning, or fulfillment they are seeking. Unfortunately, many financial professionals, echoed by ever-present media, promote a more fear-based mindset related to preserving and protecting wealth. After all, fear is a powerful motivator, right? This approach seems to serve the industry well. This reality, however, can rob people of the opportunity to find the requisite freedom to use their resources to create that more meaningful personal and social legacy they truly desire. 

Quite simply, the freedom to begin imagining how you can do more that matters to you personally, begins with getting to a place of both clarity and confidence that your own financial future and that of your heirs is secure. The end result is becoming ‘freed up’ to acknowledge and act upon the fact that you have abundance in your resources, or ‘excess’ wealth if you will, that can be used to make a difference for the various causes and organizations you personally care about.  

Providing for yourself and your family in the financial and personal dimensions of legacy, and creating a social legacy in your community and perhaps beyond are not mutually exclusive goals. With thoughtful, strategic, and creative planning, people are discovering their ability to successfully shape all three dimensions of their legacy. 

Wealth Impact Partners’ focus on the social dimension of legacy sets us apart from many planning professionals. We are passionate about helping people discover how they can release their resources to support the non-profit and charitable work that is positively impacting our community, our nation and our world. 

We have been privileged to see individuals and families discover a very real sense of excitement and energy as they become more deeply involved with and supportive of the causes and organizations that are important to them. Often, when people choose to financially support a specific non-profit or charitable organization, they also find themselves motivated to become more personally involved. They become ‘owners’ if you will, of the mission and long-term success of the organization. This is a win-win situation for both the organization and the individuals involved.  

Taking steps to secure the three dimensions of your legacy will be among the most important and satisfying actions you can take. If you knew you could do more that matters, wouldn’t you?

Peace,

Ron Ware

Unfortunately, many people overlook this very important personal dimension of legacy and end up with an estate plan that distributes their assets, but doesn’t truly reflect the richness of their lives. Most of us need help in connecting our life to our legacy in a meaningful way. How does this happen?

We ask people to begin defining their personal legacy with an examination of their life story. What people and events have shaped your life? What values have you lived by? Which values do you want to promote through your life and legacy? How do you want to attach your heirs’ inheritance to your values? What causes do you care about most deeply? How do you want people to remember you?

Articulating the answers to these questions often requires deep reflection. As we have guided individuals through this process, we have seen this become a rich and satisfying experience. As you tell your story and identify the values that bring meaning and purpose to your life, you’re likely to become excited about the possibilities that emerge. The creation of a personal mission statement adds texture and life to your legacy and often leads one to realize their own “more that matters.” 

When you recognize the personal dimension of legacy, it impacts far more than your estate plans. It often changes how you live your life from that time forward. People become more personally involved in the causes and organizations that reflect their values. They affirm the purpose of their lives and better understand how to attach their wealth to that purpose.  

The financial and personal dimensions of legacy complement each other. But a true and complete legacy includes a social dimension as well. I’ll talk about this third dimension of legacy in my next post.

Peace,

Ron

When it comes to the financial dimension, it’s usually best to begin with the end in mind. Sadly, only a small percentage of individuals create a comprehensive and thoughtful estate plan. Often they are deterred by the time and effort they perceive it takes, or simply want to avoid thinking about their own mortality. Many postpone it as a “necessary evil” they will eventually address in the least costly way. As a result, few people recognize their true financial capacity – not only to realize a secure life for themselves and plan a thoughtful family legacy, but to create lasting significance through philanthropic giving. If only estate planning were seen as so much more than death planning.

However, when people come to understand the personal and social dimensions of legacy, it can often generate excitement and enthusiasm about the planning process. They become eager to engage more intelligently in the financial dimension, once they appreciate how it will serve as the foundation upon which they can create a more impactful life and a more meaningful legacy that will personally reflect their life’s influence, interests, and values.

To help people explore this broader and deeper view of legacy, we encourage them to think about their “dreams and fingerprints” and ask them to complete this statement: “When I have more money, I’d like to …” The answers that begin to emerge are the leading indicators of the person’s dreams.

We also ask people to think about how they want to be remembered: what do you want your fingerprints on? Responding to this prompt leads to further reflection and, often, unexpected insights about what really matters to them personally.

Determining how to leverage financial resources to enable both dreams and fingerprints begins to transform traditional financial planning from a risk management exercise to a more intentional and proactive way of creating a better life and legacy.

In my next post, we’ll explore the personal dimension of legacy.

Peace,

Ron