February 2025 Newsletter:

Wisdom & Wealth

At Hess Financial, we believe that true wealth goes beyond just numbers. In this piece, we’re diving into how investments in personal growth, relationships, and community can elevate both your life and legacy. As you reflect on your own life’s investments, discover how they shape your future and the impact you leave behind. The way we approach growth, both professionally and personally, might surprise you.

Investing in Life: Community, Growth, and the Future

When I hear the word “investment,” my mind immediately goes to financial planning—stocks, bonds, retirement accounts, and long-term wealth strategies. Assisting individuals in understanding financial decisions is not just my profession; it’s my passion, and I find immense fulfillment in playing a small role in something they have committed their lives to creating. But lately, I’ve been thinking about investment in a broader sense. This stage of my life is full of transitions and commitments, each requiring a deep, personal investment of time, energy, and purpose. Whether it’s advancing in my career, strengthening my relationships, or giving back to my community, I’ve come to realize that the most valuable investments don’t always come with a dollar sign.

Investing in Myself

Right now, I’m in a period of growth—both personally and professionally. As a CFP® and CPA, my career is built on guiding others toward financial security and success. Just as I emphasize the importance of financial planning, I recognize that personal and professional growth also require thoughtful investment. I’m currently working through an intensive series of professional exams—six down, two to go. These efforts aren’t just for personal advancement; they enhance the knowledge I can share, helping individuals better understand their financial futures. Balancing studying with work and life’s other responsibilities isn’t easy, but I see it as an investment in both my future and the people I will serve.

Another exciting chapter in my life is unfolding as I plan my wedding with my fiancé. This isn’t just about one day—it’s about building a foundation for a lifetime. Relationships, like finances, require intentionality and effort. Investing in love, trust, and shared goals requires the same level of intentionality as financial planning, and just as in my work assisting others, being intentional helps create a strong foundation.

Investing in My Community

While I focus on personal and professional development, I also believe in investing in something bigger than myself. One of the rewarding aspects of my life has been my involvement in a nonprofit organization working to build a park in downtown Harrisonburg. This initiative isn’t just about creating a beautiful space—it’s about fostering a sense of belonging, encouraging people to connect, and making a meaningful difference for future generations.

Seeing this project come to life has been a reminder that communities, like individuals, thrive when people are willing to invest in them. Whether through volunteering, supporting local initiatives, or showing up for others, small acts of commitment create meaningful change. One quote from Margaret Mead perfectly captures this sentiment: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”

The Power of Intentional Investments

Life is busy, and it’s easy to get caught up in the demands of both professional and personal obligations. However, I’ve found that investing in something beyond myself brings the most fulfillment. Although the returns may not be immediate or tangible, they are deeply rewarding.

Looking ahead, I hope to continue finding ways to balance my professional ambitions with my passion for service. Throughout my work, community involvement, and personal milestones, I am reminded that true wealth is not just financial success, but the impact we leave on the community/world around us. Assisting others in making informed financial decisions is a privilege, and I strive to bring that same level of intentionality to all areas of my life.

As I navigate this busy phase of life, I encourage others to reflect on what investments truly matter to them as well. Whether it’s learning something new, strengthening relationships, or giving back, the most meaningful returns come from the time, effort, and heart we put into the things that matter most. Financial success is significant, and the numbers on a balance sheet reflect years of dedication and hard work. Beyond those numbers, the legacy we build—through our contributions, values, and the people we support—is what defines a truly rich life.