If we’re honest with ourselves, being financially rich isn’t about reaching some arbitrary ‘magic number.’ Chasing a number without a personal reason behind it leads nowhere. True financial success comes when your goals are tied to your values. At MFG, we like to say, ‘There is a number - but there’s a story behind the number.’

This guide is designed to help you build your personalized financial Blueprint—a clear and empowering overview of your spending, saving, and investing priorities. Whether you're just beginning your financial journey or refining a path you’ve already started, these steps will help you move forward with clarity and confidence. Together, we’ll uncover your number—and the story that gives it meaning.

Step 1: Know Your Numbers – Fixed Costs

Download and complete the Fixed Costs Guide (below).
Start by listing your non-negotiable monthly expenses — housing, insurance, transportation, utilities, childcare, tuition, etc. This step helps you clearly understand what it takes to maintain your lifestyle month to month.

Step 2: Build Generational Wealth – Investments

Aim to invest 10–15% of your take-home income.
This is where long-term wealth begins. Common vehicles include 401(k)s, Roth IRAs, brokerage accounts, mutual funds, and real estate. We’ll help you match the right investment strategy to your goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon.

Step 3: Define Your Short-Term Goals – Savings

Set aside 5–10% of your take-home income for medium-term goals.
This is money you plan to use within the next one to five years — for things that bring you joy or peace of mind. It could be a new boat, a luxury coat, an engagement ring, or a down payment on a vacation home. This category must include an emergency fund covering 6–12 months of essential expenses, to safeguard your lifestyle in the event of job loss or market downturns.

Step 4: Assess Finances — Net Worth

Net Worth = Total Assets – Total Debts. Your net worth is a simple but powerful measure of your financial health. To calculate it, start by adding up all your assets, which are the things you own that have monetary value—such as cash, savings, investments, your home, car, or business interests. Then, subtract your debts, which are the amounts you owe—like credit card balances, mortgages, car loans, student loans, and medical bills. The result is your net worth: your total assets minus your total debts. A positive net worth means you own more than you owe, while a negative net worth indicates that your liabilities exceed your assets. Regularly assessing your net worth helps you understand your financial standing and make better decisions for the future.

Step 5: Let’s Talk – Schedule Your Free Consultation

Bring your completed Fixed Costs Guide to your first appointment.
Together, we’ll review your Blueprints and create a financial plan that reflects your values, priorities, and lifestyle.