What are the most challenging and rewarding aspects of your job and why?
In these times, I’d have to say reassuring and instilling confidence in clients in volatile markets. We experienced this very recently in March of this year and it is challenging to provide comfort in periods of high uncertainty. However, when I am able to connect to clients and reassure them in these periods, it is very rewarding. In large part, the value of a financial advisor is coaching clients and this scenario always feels like a nice win.
Who do you look up to or admire in business and why?
Tim Ferriss may not be a “traditional” person in business, but he has made a living as an author, entrepreneur, investor, and podcaster. Tim Ferriss comes to mind for me because, although there are other people I admire, nearly all of them have been introduced to me through Ferriss’ work. His podcasts and books, in particular, introduced me to interesting people and thinkers from all walks of life. So, although I do not listen to Tim Ferriss’ podcasts very often anymore, his work has had a major, positive influence on me.
What has been the high point of your career so far?
I don’t have a specific moment that comes to mind, but I would generally say gaining a level of confidence with public speaking has been great and highly valuable. I have always been, and continue to be, a fairly quiet, introverted individual and I began my career as an analyst with little to no client interaction. I would get very nervous when speaking even to small groups of co-workers. Although it’s certainly not to the point where I enjoy it, I am very happy to have developed this skill. My brother is getting married in December and I will be the best man. The thought of the best man’s speech is far less daunting today than it would have been two years ago, so I am very grateful.
Thinking back on your career, what advice would you give your 21-year-old self?
I think it is difficult to imagine yourself in five years, 10 years, and beyond, but take the time to do so. Then work backward from there to determine the process to arrive at those goals. From that point, focus on the process and not the end goal. Reward yourself as you perform the process instead of only celebrating milestones. The milestones will come. Perform this analysis every six to 12 months.
What would you say are the best things about living and working in Dane County?
The work-life balance and variety of activities in the area make it a great place to live. I enjoy the blend of a downtown, college football atmosphere, and outdoor activities available, and also that you can get to most of these things on a bike thanks to the excellent paths throughout the city. It’s also easy to get out of the city to enjoy the lakes, hiking, or camping nearby. The community also seems to highly value work-life balance and preserving it.
Do you have any secret talents or abilities that people would be surprised to discover?
I picked up the guitar a few years ago and enjoy teaching myself. I am still very much a novice but it’s a nice way to generally clear my head, similar to working out or playing a sport.
What are your guilty pleasures?
The “Happy Clown” from Michael’s Frozen Custard. I’m a native of New York, so custard is a more recent phenomenon for me, but I’m sold. I’m generally good about keeping junk food out of the house but given an excuse to stop by Michael’s, I find it impossible to resist. The Happy Clown has many of my favorite sundae features, like cookie dough and fudge, complete with a waffle cone, and I highly recommend it. My family visited Madison last summer and we found ourselves at Michael’s on three out of four days of their stay.
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