We have been through a lot. While I generally believe that we can manage difficult situations, this year has been different. The continuous news of loss and suffering of near and dear ones in extended family and friends made us realize that things were not in our control. We were left mute spectators to a rampaging virus.
While these losses are irreparable, humans are resilient. Like in the past, we gathered ourselves one more time to make sense of what was left and put our lives back on track. The tragedy made us more humble and helped us realize the bigger purpose in our life. While it is impossible to replace the losses of beloved ones, emotional support at the time of the tragedy gave people the courage to manage through difficult times.
My personal experience has been even more humbling. In my previous career, my engagement with people was largely professional. As part of the Financial Advisory now, I get to know clients not only professionally but also personally. That means it is not uncommon for my clients to share their happiness and grief. While I have been part of their happy moments in the past, this year was the first time, I felt their pain. These pains are reflected through some of the tough decisions and adjustments made around personal finance. Adverse situations make people more aware, responsible and smart. I believe, better times are ahead for us.
Diwali is around the corner. It is time for us to take a break and feel blessed in the company of our family and friends who have been with us in our thick and thin. It is time for us to take care of those who need help and support.
Wishing you and your family a very happy and prosperous Diwali. Take care and stay safe.
The writer is a SEBI Registered Adviser and Founder of FinMyn (https://finmyn.com). He provides Fee-Only Financial Planning and Investment Advisory services.
He has advised many clients in India, the US, Europe, the Middle East, South East Asia and Australia.
To know more about him, click on https://finmyn.com/about/.