Oh, the Places You’ll Go
To quote Dr. Seuss, "The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go." Growing up, teachers and parents always stressed the importance of an education. But what happens when formal schooling is over? Lifelong learning is defined as the self-motivated practice of continuing to learn throughout one’s entire life, with the aim of improving knowledge, skills, and competencies.
I embarked on my own learning journey several years ago, to enhance my professional skills. At the time, I was a client service associate, but interested in learning more about fixed income. I had been working closely with the director of fixed income, learning all about bonds and felt I needed some more formal economic and financial analysis training to really be proficient in bond trading. Starting the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) program with a full time job and two young children seemed daunting and, to be frank, a little crazy as well. I forewarned my husband of the recommended time commitment of 300 hours per exam and got to work. With such a dense curriculum, I can honestly say the CFA program was the most difficult thing that I have ever attempted, academically. After countless hours of studying, as well as numerous missed family events and social engagements, I can proudly look up at my CFA charter hanging on the wall.
Not every educational pursuit needs to be quite as demanding, and many activities can put you on the path to becoming a well-rounded person. Whether it be learning a new language, picking up a new sport or an artistic endeavor, there are a number of benefits to continued learning. Attaining a new skillset or certification can not only help you professionally, but personally as well. It can improve your self-esteem, connect you with a new community, and keep your brain healthy and active. Here at West Financial we value continued education, as many members of our team have committed to earning professional credentials. Outside of work, we are involved in a variety of pastimes, ranging from music, gardening, and even horse shows. As a large part of our client base is now enjoying retirement, we’d love to hear about ways you all are continuing to learn as well.
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IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES
West Financial Services, Inc. (“WFS”) offers investment advisory services and is registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). SEC registration does not constitute an endorsement of the firm by the SEC nor does it indicate that the firm has attained a particular level of skill or ability. You should carefully read and review all information provided by WFS, including Form ADV Part 1A, Part 2A brochure and all supplements, and Form CRS.
This information is intended to be educational in nature, and not as a recommendation of any particular strategy, approach, product, security, or concept. These materials are not intended as any form of substitute for individualized investment advice. The discussion is general in nature, and therefore not intended to recommend or endorse any asset class, security, or technical aspect of any security for the purpose of allowing a reader to use the approach on their own. You should not treat these materials as advice in relation to legal, taxation, or investment matters. Before participating in any investment program or making any investment, clients as well as all other readers are encouraged to consult with their own professional advisers, including investment advisers and tax advisers.