July is a month where we celebrate our independence, or as I recently heard it called, “Brexit 1776.” It’s a month of ice cream, swimming pools, movies, fireworks, relaxation, and fun. July is also a great time to reflect on the concept of independence — specifically financial independence.

What does financial independence mean to you?

I frequently hear comments regarding different definitions of financial independence founded in certain milestones such as “Paying my mortgage off,” “Being debt-free,” or “Having $1 million dollars.”

I believe there is a more thoughtful way to approach financial independence.

Each year I see hundreds of different financial situations and as many definitions of what financial independence means. Financial independence in my world, however, is defined by three foundational concepts.

  • Having enough income for life to pay your expenses in perpetuity
  • Making sure your expenses reflect truly how you want to live your life (with no lifestyle creep).
  • Having a strong legacy plan in place, upon your death or disability, regardless of how long you live or market conditions.

I personally focus on the concept of financial independence because it is more doable than you may realize. It’s really all about controlling the 3 foundational concepts above, in balance.

Do you have a plan for your financial independence?

Meredith Moore is a 20-year veteran of the financial advisory industry who specializes in bringing a customized approach to support the highly personal dynamics that govern her clients’ relationship with money and success. She is the recipient of numerous industry awards and a noted speaker and writer focusing on the intersection of power, money, and gender within relationships. Ms. Moore can be reached at www.artisanfsonline.com.

Meredith C. Moore of Moore and Artisan Financial Strategies, 1125 Cambridge Square, Suite C, Alpharetta, GA 30009 (770) 587-0281.Learn how to take control of your financial life and discover what makes women’s financial planning needs such a unique challenge with our free, white paper: https://www.artisanfsonline.com/.19.htm

Author(s)

  • Meredith Moore

    Founder & CEO

    Artisan Financial Strategies: Helping Atlanta’s Leading Families Coordinate Their Financial World

    Tireless worker. Financial Guru. Speaker. Writer. Leader. Personal Growth Junkie. Meredith Moore brings a passion for lifelong learning to her role as Founder and CEO of Artisan Financial Strategies. Clients and colleagues alike appreciate Meredith’s unflagging commitment to empowering others through knowledge; skills and insights that help them meet financial and personal goals. Her boundless drive and curiosity are always evident, whether she’s creating a comprehensive financial plan, working to understand and advance women’s issues or serving as a mentor for other professionals. As someone who’s not only beaten cancer but kicked its ass, Meredith has a growth mindset and firmly believes that perseverance and a methodical approach allow individuals to achieve any goal. In addition to her client service and community leadership, Meredith is a widely respected writer who brings a unique perspective to every topic. Her fresh approach and insightful observations combine with 20 years of professional experience to make Meredith a compelling and sought-after speaker who is able to engage large and small groups with varied backgrounds. She has guest lectured at Georgia Tech’s Scheller College of Business, spoken at the Wall Street Journal’s Women in the Workplace and spoken at multiple international gatherings of financial advisor peers, in addition to numerous local and regional events.      Meredith C. Moore, Registered Representative, offering securities through NYLIFE Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC, A Licensed Insurance Agency. 1125 Cambridge Square, Suite C, Alpharetta, GA 30009 (770) 587-0281. *Financial Adviser offering investment advisory services through Eagle Strategies LLC, A Registered Investment Adviser. NYLIFE Securities LLC and Eagle Strategies LLC are New York Life Companies. Artisan Financial Strategies LLC, is not owned or operated by NYLIFE Securities LLC or its affiliates. **Neither Artisan Financial Strategies LLC nor its advisors provide tax, legal or accounting advice.