Living Longer Myths

Why retire sooner if you only die weeks later.

Much of what I have written about on this blog is centered around financial strategies to spend less, protect your family better, eliminate personal debt and invest better. But what can you do to live longer to enjoy your efforts?

The other day I came across at book from Howard S. Friedman and Leslie R. Martin called The Longevity Project.  The book is based on a study started in 1921 following 1500 Americans, what the happened as they lived their lives and the causes for longevity.

You may be surprised to find out these12 myths about living longer ( Make sure to check the video below too) ...

Working in the Okanagan?!

I was waiting to meet some one today at The Cove Lakeside Resort in West Kelowna and it came to me. This is the life ... this working in the Okanagan!

Many fly to Mexico for the beaches, sail on cruise ship for the food or travel to South America for the hiking ... and we have all right here.

The Cove Lakeside Resort is a private resort, as a strata with about 2/3 thirds of the rooms part of the rental pool. Not a new concept ... but certainly the future of hotel/resort development because many banks are willing right now to lend money on a 60 million dollar real estate development. (Manteo in the Mission is the same concept)

If you haven't had a chance to see the Cove yet ... make sure to drive down, park the car and go for a walk. There is an impressive walkway along the water front and Gellatly Nut Farm is right next door. Make sure to bring your camera!

So here I am waiting to meet some one for a coffee ... yet I feel like I am on vacation. I love the Okanagan Lifestyle.

Mike Hassard Kelowna

Lost your job in Kelowna - Now what??

It has happened to all of us. We get called to the bosses office thinking we are going to get complimented on the great job we've done ... only to get a pink slip.

What should you do now?

First see an employment counselor, then see your financial advisor. Here is some things to discuss ...

Update your budget and cash flow. Keep a close eye on how you spend during this time. At times like these it is easy to spend to make yourself feel better, and then later not have enough make ends meet.

Plan if you need to remove money from your emergency funds. Once you have updated your budget and income needs look and see if you need to supplement your income. Rather than taking a large lump sum ... plan for a bi-weekly payment just like a paycheck.

Review your Pension and Medical Benefits. Find out what your options are with your pension and benefits. Does it make sense to transfer your assets, and what benefits may you loose if you do? Get good advice from your financial advisor and an accountant if necessary.

Being laid off is hard enough, and now is the time to get proactive. It might save you money and piece of mind.

Mike Hassard Kelowna