What are the most challenging and rewarding aspects of your job and why?
There is no doubt that the biggest challenge that my job poses is prioritizing and balancing my to-do list. Clients always come first; however, there are many other responsibilities that come along with running a business.
On the other hand, there is nothing more rewarding than getting a compliment or any sort of positive feedback from our clients. Happy clients reassure us that our work is both needed and appreciated.
Who do you look up to or admire in business and why?
There are so many great business role models — especially locally — but outside of my own company, the people I admire the most are those who have had the biggest impact on me personally. I admire my mom for her tenacity; as a longtime business owner I admire my dad for his honesty and work ethic; my brother for his business mind; my sister for her compassion; and my wife for the passion she has for her own career. I have been extremely lucky to have such positive influences so close to me.
What has been the high point of your career so far?
There is no specific milestone that I would consider the high point of my career. Instead, I consider the people I have had the privilege to work with — co-workers, clients, and other professionals — as well as the continued enjoyment I get out of my work as the high point. I am blessed that I was able to find the perfect career for my skill set and personality.
Thinking back on your career, what advice would you give your 21-year-old self?
Don’t worry so much about what the future might hold. If you work hard and take each day as it comes, you will end up where you want to be. Also, don’t be intimidated by anyone. No matter how successful certain people may be, everyone has to start somewhere.
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What would you say are the best things about living and working in Dane County?
Having grown up in Mineral Point I enjoy being able to live in Mount Horeb, a similarly charming small community that is both close to home but also close to Madison and all it has to offer.
Do you have any secret talents or abilities that people would be surprised to discover?
Tough question. I am likely one of the most organized people around. However, that’s no secret among those who know me. If I had to identify a secret talent it would be singing. I’m not necessarily a talented singer; rather, I can often be found singing random songs and I seem to have a unique ability to get the lyrics wrong. I guess you could say I have developed a talent to make up my own words. They generally make little sense but my songs sound good to me.
What are your guilty pleasures?
Sweets. Cookies, cake, and doughnuts — I love them all. In fact, my wife recently hid a package of chocolate chip cookies from my four-year-old son. As it turns out, I was the one who missed them the most. I did eventually find the cookies and was even able to enjoy a couple before my wife caught me eating them.
Justin D. Goninen is a financial advisor with the Global Wealth Management Division of Morgan Stanley in Madison, WI. Investing involves risks and there is always the potential of losing money when you invest. The views expressed herein are those of the author and may not necessarily reflect the views of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, Member SIPC, or its affiliates. CRC 1887189 09/17
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