Not everything has to be about financial planning. Open Door Financial believes that there are many other ways to make the world a better and happier place. Over the past several weeks we have witnessed several tragedies across the country, many of which had a direct and significant impact on our clients and friends. While our thoughts are with all of those affected by acts of violence, we hope to react by sharing ideas of positivity and acts of kindness. We know this cannot undo any of these events in our communities, but they are something we can do to try and make those around us feel better, safer, and more appreciated. The article below was written before the July 4th shooting in Highland Park, IL, but we still felt it appropriate to share, perhaps more so, in our quarterly update.
Friday Night Lights is one of our favorite television shows. (We know, it is a book and a movie too, but the show was great!) In the first episode, Coach Eric Taylor gives a rousing and moving speech to his team, the Dillon Panthers, before they take the field. The coach stares down his players and says, "Clear eyes, full hearts, can't lose." This becomes a rallying cry for the team, and conveys hope and optimism. As Coach Taylor makes clear in his speech, it is not about expecting to win, but executing at one's fullest potential.
There is a clear financial planning message here, but we have adopted this motto for another purpose: doing well, staying positive, and appreciating the actions of others that benefit us all. As the school year wound to a close a few weeks ago, we watched exhausted teachers supporting students until the final bell rang. Parents stepping up to support children who are clearly going through challenging times. Volunteers dedicating time and energy to the institutions that we cherish. Employees who are overworked and underappreciated go above and beyond.
It is not perfect, and the goal is not to sugar coat it. But, with Open doors and full hearts we can't lose. Open Door Financial continues its commitment to supporting the less fortunate, and not only seeks to do so through traditional means of support, but by making small gestures to show appreciation for those around us. We encourage you to do the same. Write a thank you card to someone who has provided you with great service. Approach someone unfamiliar and welcome them. Be gracious, even when it is hard to do so, and be understanding and compassionate even when it is not being reciprocated.
In the beginning of the year Open Door Financial hosted a book club where we read The Positive Dog. We are trying to put positivity into the world and keep our eyes open for opportunities to execute to our fullest potential. While it is not a financial behavior that we are suggesting you change with this post, we firmly believe that maintaining a positive outlook, and being appreciative can enhance your life and the lives of those around you. And at the end of the day, that is really the most valuable thing we can provide.
Open Doors, Full Hearts, Can't Lose.
*If you need some motivation yourself, you can find a clip of the speech here, (Friday Night Lights | "Clear Eyes, Full Hearts, Can't Lose") and we highly recommend the show in its entirety.
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