I just started my 25th year as an independent financial advisor and now an owner and executive chef of the San Fran Grille, located in Mt. Pleasant, Wisconsin. In helping clients put together their financial plan and cooking full course meals, I have found many similarities. In fact, if you follow the same process, you can have a successful meal and financial plan.

As an investor, 2012 ended with a great deal of uncertainty. The country awaited the solution to the fiscal cliff. The questions at the end of the New Year were would the tax increases happen and how would they affect the market? As the days ticked to the start of 2013 we saw the government with no solutions. Taxes did increase and the law maker’s solution was to move the date until March. Our retail sales numbers over Christmas did not increase and corporate profits are still under pressure.

So where is the good? The market did sustain its value through all the turmoil.  Interest rates remain low. Properties are still cheap, provided you have the credit. We have learned to save money. As a whole, investor’s expectations are less. The strategy for 2013 is to maintain the value of what you have. 

In keeping with this strategy to maintain your current value or start a new plan. A complete financial plan works just like making a really good consistent dinner. In January, it is time to look at the ingredients you have in your pantry (your investment portfolio) and plan for the coming year. I feel the market will have a pull back from its current levels. Hold what is doing well. Keep the excess in a money market account. After the pullback will be the time to start cooking. Now we are preparing to have a successful year. I will be giving you the steps needed and we will work to make your recipe a success!

Lori Geiss is a financial advisor and chef.

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