Common Sense Investing… Come Join the Choir
Issue 6.10
I recently heard a speaker say, “Of course I am preaching to the choir here.” There is a lot of truth in that expression. In many instances the people who need to hear something are the ones most likely to not be in attendance.
The FAA reports that pilots who take optional continuing education courses are less likely to be involved in an accident. I wonder if the education reduces accident rates or is it that the safer and more conscientious pilots are the ones most likely to take the courses?
I’ve spent many years teaching courses on investing and financial planning. Among other things, I currently teach continuing education classes at Dixie State College. It is very rewarding helping people see and understand things in new ways. I love teaching. I love that glow that comes to a person’s face when a difficult concept suddenly comes together for them.
Ironically, as with flying, I have found that those who attend my classes at the college also tend to be the ones who are the most responsible investors to begin with. Those most capable at managing their own money are usually first to seek out new opportunities to learn. I am sure it is this attitude that has led them to success in the first place. Unfortunately, the ones in the greatest need of financial help tend to be those who rarely seek it. Perhaps they think they are without hope. Maybe they are afraid of looking foolish. They may even think they already know everything. The latter being the most dangerous to themselves.
Despite my lifetime of study in financial matters, I regularly travel long distances to hear lectures or attend classes taught by others in the industry. My goal on those trips is to learn just one thing that will help me be a better advisor. I have listened to the greatest minds in the industry, and some of the worst, but I have learned from them all.
I invite my readers who would like to learn something new, or brush up on something old, to join me at DSC this month (see accompanying ad). I offer a special invitation to those who are normally not in “The Choir” to come join us and see what we all might learn together. I promise you your time will be well spent. And don’t worry, I won’t ask you to sing.
Dan Wyson, CFP® is author of the book “21 Financial Myths” and owner of Wyson Financial. 1173 S. 250 W #305 St. George 435-986-9525 - Securities offered through LPL Financial FINRA/SIPC.
