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